Pharmaceutical researchers have recently made progress in weight-loss management with the development of Semaglutide which has demonstrated 15-18% weight loss in subjects. Side effects are relatively minor, and it is administered as a once-per-week injection.

Ultimately, non-protein “small molecule” drugs that activate GLP-1 receptors may offer advantages over proteins like semaglutide. These advantages include potentially lower cost of production in less specialized facilities, good oral availability, and longer shelf-life. In June of 2020, Pfizer presented promising results from a phase 1 trial of a small molecule GLP-1 receptor activator, PF-06882961, in people with type 2 diabetes. Over 28 days of treatment, the drug substantially improved blood glucose control and reduced body weight by 2-9%, depending on dose. Novo Nordisk may be working in the area as well.