The National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) has indicated on its website that benaglutide, developed by Shanghai Benemae Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd, has been granted approval for adult weight management in China. This marks the second hypoglycemic drug approved for weight loss in the country, following Huadong Medicine Co., Ltd’s (SHE: 000963) biosimilar version of Novo Nordisk’s (NYSE: NVO) Victoza (liraglutide).
Benaglutide: A Fully Human GLP-1 Receptor Agonist
Benaglutide is produced through genetic engineering tandem expression technology and is recognized as the world’s first and only fully human GLP-1 receptor agonist. Its amino acid sequence is identical to the natural GLP-1 found in the human body, offering a low incidence of antibodies, significant therapeutic effects, and improved safety.
Mechanism of Action and Effectiveness
Benaglutide’s effectiveness in weight management is attributed to its direct action on the feeding center of the central nervous system, which reduces the appetite of users. It also influences the digestive system by inhibiting gastric peristalsis, delaying gastric emptying, and increasing satiety. The drug’s combined effect on regulating the metabolism of sugars and fats contributes to effective weight reduction.
Role in Weight Loss and Lifestyle Changes
In the weight loss domain, lifestyle modifications are considered the most critical approach by the medical community, including dietary changes and regular exercise. Benaglutide supports these changes by simulating the natural GLP-1 secretion pattern, which suppresses appetite, and allowing users to adjust their dietary habits with relative ease during weight loss treatment.-Fineline Info & Tech
