Novo Nordisk’s Alzheimer’s trials fail, casting doubt on GLP-1 drugs for neurodegeneration

Novo Nordisk’s GLP-1 drug semaglutide failed to slow cognitive decline in two major Alzheimer’s trials, dealing a blow to hopes that metabolic drugs might treat neurodegenerative diseases.

Why it matters: These results challenge a growing theory that GLP-1 drugs, known for weight loss and heart benefits, might also work in the brain. It dims enthusiasm for their potential in treating Alzheimer’s, a field with few effective options.

Backstory: GLP-1 drugs like semaglutide have shown promise in reducing brain inflammation and improving cellular signaling in early research. Novo’s two phase 3 trials, Evoke and Evoke+, tested this in over 3,800 people with early Alzheimer’s but showed no cognitive benefit over placebo.

Big picture: The failure narrows the field of promising Alzheimer’s treatments and may benefit rivals like Biogen, whose anti-amyloid drug Leqembi now faces less competition. It also tempers broader hopes for GLP-1s in neurology, though some see potential in combination therapies.

What’s next: Other pharma players like Lilly are exploring neuro uses for next-gen incretins, but not directly in Alzheimer’s. Novo’s full data are expected in March and could shed some light on the details.