Once‐Weekly Semaglutide Versus Once‐Daily Liraglutide for Weight Loss in Adults: A Meta‐Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

Abstract

ABSTRACT The effectiveness of glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonists in facilitating weight loss among patients with diabetes is widely recognized. However, there are limited data available on the relative effectiveness and safety of once‐weekly semaglutide versus once‐daily liraglutide. We conducted a systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) identified through a comprehensive search of the Cochrane Library, PubMed, and ScienceDirect databases from inception until July 2024. Statistical analysis was conducted using R version 4.4.1 with the “meta” package, employing a random effects model. Three RCTs with a total of 922 patients were included in our meta‐analysis. The results indicated that OW semaglutide significantly reduced body weight (WMD: −4.55; 95% CI: −6.43, −2.67, p < 0.01), HbA1c (WMD: −0.46; 95% CI: −0.84, −0.08; p = 0.02), and fasting plasma glucose levels (WMD: −1.23; 95% CI: −1.51, −0.95; p < 0.01) in comparison to OD liraglutide. The risk of severe adverse effects (OR, 1.66; 95% CI, 0.53–5.16; p = 0.38) and gastrointestinal adverse effects (OR, 1.84; 95% CI, 0.82–4.14; p = 0.14) was comparable between both groups. Once‐weekly semaglutide therapy results in a more pronounced loss in body weight, HbA1c, and fasting glucose levels compared to once‐daily liraglutide.

Keywords

• diabetes
• meta‐analysis
• metabolism
• obesity
• weight loss