Eli Lilly's Bimagrumab and Wegovy Combo Shows 22.1% Weight Loss, Preserves Muscle

Eli Lilly and Company has announced new data from a Phase II trial of its experimental drug Bimagrumab, which, when combined with Wegovy (semaglutide), a GLP-1 class weight loss drug, demonstrated significant weight loss while preserving muscle mass. The data revealed that patients who received the combination therapy of Wegovy and Bimagrumab experienced a 22.1% reduction in body weight over 48 weeks, with 92.8% of the weight loss coming from body fat. In contrast, patients who received Wegovy alone experienced a 15.7% reduction in body weight, with 71.8% of the weight loss coming from body fat. This indicates that patients using the combination therapy lost more fat and less muscle compared to those using Wegovy alone.

The results suggest that Bimagrumab, when used in conjunction with Wegovy, can enhance the efficacy of weight loss treatments by targeting both fat reduction and muscle preservation. This is a significant finding, as traditional weight loss methods often result in the loss of both fat and muscle, which can be detrimental to overall health and metabolic function. The ability to preserve muscle mass while losing weight is crucial for maintaining strength, mobility, and metabolic health.

Eli Lilly is also conducting trials to evaluate the combination of Bimagrumab with its own GLP-1/GIP dual-target weight loss drug, Zepbound (tirzepatide). Zepbound was acquired by Eli Lilly in July 2023 as part of its acquisition of Versanis Bio. This acquisition underscores Eli Lilly's commitment to advancing innovative weight management solutions and expanding its portfolio of obesity treatments.

The positive results from the Phase II trial of Bimagrumab in combination with Wegovy highlight the potential of this therapeutic approach in addressing the growing global obesity epidemic. Obesity is a complex condition that requires multifaceted treatment strategies, and the combination of Bimagrumab and Wegovy offers a promising avenue for achieving sustainable weight loss while preserving muscle mass. This approach could benefit patients who struggle with weight loss and muscle loss, providing them with a more effective and healthier weight management option.