Overweight and obese individuals with type 2 diabetes were able to lose weight over 56 weeks with the help of liraglutide, according to a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial involving 846 patients.

The trial was conducted at 126 sites in 9 countries. Subjects received either once-daily subcutaneous liraglutide 3 mg (n=423); 1.8 mg (n=211), or placebo (n=212). Patients also decreased caloric intake and increased physical activity.

The 3 mg dose led to 6% weight loss, compared with 4.7% with 1.8 mg and 2% with placebo. Further, 5% or more weight loss occurred in 54.3% of those taking the 3 mg dose, vs 40.4% for those on 1.8 mg and 21.4% taking placebo. The trend continued, with 10% or more weight loss occurring in about one-fourth of those on the 3 mg dose, compared to 15.9% of those taking 1.8 mg and less than 10% receiving placebo.

Investigators noted that more study is needed to evaluate effectiveness and safety beyond 56 weeks.

Citation: Davies M, Bergenstal R, Bode B, et al. Efficacy of Liraglutide for Weight Loss Among Patients With Type 2 Diabetes: The SCALE Diabetes Randomized Clinical Trial. JAMA. 2015;31(7):687-699.