MetAP2 Inhibitor Beloranib Produces Weight Loss in “Simple” Obesity



sharma-obesity-insulin-injectionReaders may recall a previous post on the remarkable efficacy of beloranib, a methionine aminopeptidase 2 (MetAP2 ) inhibitor, in patients with hypothalamic obesity.

Now, a paper by Dennis Kim and colleagues present the results of a phase II study in individuals with “simple” obesity, published in Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism.

The study included 147 participants with moderate obesity, who were randomised to 0.6, 1.2, and 2.4 mg beloranib or placebo for 12 weeks, with no specific diet or exercise recommendations.

At 12 weeks, participants had on average lost between 5.5 and 10.9 Kg in a dose-dependent fashion.

This reduction in body weight was associated with relevant improvements in waist circumference, lipids and blood pressure.

Adverse effects included dose-dependent increase in sleep latency and mild to moderate gastrointestinal symptoms.

Beloranib is an investigational weight loss therapy with a novel mechanism of action. This study assessed the efficacy, safety, and tolerability of beloranib treatment for obesity.

This is certainly a most remarkable degree of weight loss seen at 12 weeks and it will be interesting to see the results of the longer-term studies that are currently underway.

@DrSharma
Edmonton, AB

Disclaimer: I have received consulting honararia from Zafgen, the maker of belanorib.