Cagrilintide

What it is

Cagrilintide (AM833) is a long-acting amylin analog developed by Novo Nordisk. Amylin is a peptide hormone co-secreted with insulin from pancreatic beta cells, with effects on satiety, gastric emptying, and glucagon suppression. Cagrilintide has been studied as monotherapy and increasingly in combination with semaglutide (CagriSema) for enhanced weight loss effects.

Mechanism of action

Amylin receptor activation produces:

• Slowed gastric emptying
• Increased satiety and reduced meal size
• Glucagon suppression
• Effects on cravings and food reward

The amylin pathway provides effects complementary to GLP-1 signaling, supporting the combination approach with semaglutide.

Clinical evidence

The CagriSema combination (cagrilintide + semaglutide) in Phase III trials has shown weight loss effects exceeding semaglutide alone, approaching the magnitude seen with tirzepatide. Cagrilintide monotherapy produces meaningful weight loss as well.

Why we don’t prescribe it at The Tide

Cagrilintide and CagriSema are not yet FDA-approved. Approval may come in the near future based on Phase III results. We will reassess prescribing status when these become available through approved channels.

Side effects and contraindications

Side effect profile similar to other incretin therapies in clinical trials.