Cagrilintide is a long-acting amylin analog (a synthetic version of the hormone amylin). It’s being developed for obesity and metabolic disease treatment, most notably by Novo Nordisk, and has been studied alone and in combination with semaglutide (the GLP-1 drug in Wegovy).
Here’s what it does in the body:
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1. Suppresses Appetite (Brain Signaling)
Cagrilintide acts on the amylin receptors in the brain (especially the area postrema and hypothalamus).
Effects:
•Increases satiety (feeling full)
•Reduces hunger signals
•Lowers overall calorie intake
This is its primary mechanism for weight loss.
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2. Slows Gastric Emptying
Like natural amylin, it slows how fast food leaves the stomach.
Effects:
•Prolonged fullness after meals
•Blunted post-meal blood sugar spikes
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3. Improves Blood Sugar Control
Amylin normally works alongside insulin.
Effects:
•Reduces post-meal glucose spikes
•Decreases glucagon release
•Improves overall glycemic control
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4. Promotes Weight Loss
Clinical trials show significant weight reduction, especially when combined with semaglutide (dual amylin + GLP-1 approach).
Why it works well:
•GLP-1 reduces appetite and improves insulin
•Amylin (cagrilintide) enhances satiety and slows digestion
•Together → stronger appetite suppression than either alone
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5. May Reduce Food Reward
Amylin signaling also affects dopamine-related reward pathways.
Potential effects: