Semaglutide Explored for Weight Loss in Advanced Lung Disease Patients

Many patients with advanced lung diseases such as Interstitial Lung Disease, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), and Pulmonary Hypertension also suffer from obesity, which can worsen their respiratory symptoms and overall prognosis. Effective and safe weight loss strategies are crucial but often challenging in this vulnerable population. This pilot study addresses the critical knowledge gap regarding the feasibility and tolerability of Semaglutide, an FDA-approved weight loss medication, in patients with advanced lung disease.

This Phase 1/2 pilot study, currently recruiting, aims to gather specific data on the feasibility and tolerability of Semaglutide in patients with advanced lung disease. Researchers will assess if patients can tolerate the therapy and if the 1.0 mg weekly dose can be titrated to achieve a target weight. After 12 weeks of Semaglutide therapy, participants will undergo comprehensive evaluations including pulmonary function testing, physical function assessments, and body composition analysis. The primary objective is to determine if patients with advanced lung disease are able to tolerate Semaglutide therapy and if the treatment can be successfully titrated to a target weight, which are critical metrics for future larger trials. Adverse events and side effects will be meticulously surveyed and recorded throughout the 12-week treatment period to quantify safety profiles. The study will enroll an estimated 8 participants to provide initial data on these key feasibility metrics.