UCL Study Finds Semaglutide Effective for Weight Loss Post-Bariatric Surgery
A recent study conducted by the UCL Centre for Obesity Research has demonstrated the effectiveness of the weight loss drug semaglutide for patients who have not achieved sufficient weight loss following bariatric surgery. The BARI-STEP trial, published in Nature Medicine, involved 70 patients who were randomly assigned to receive either semaglutide or a placebo, alongside lifestyle advice and a reduced-calorie diet. Results showed that 85% of patients on semaglutide lost at least 10% of their body weight, compared to 7% in the placebo group. The study also noted improvements in blood sugar levels, cholesterol, and overall quality of life for those taking semaglutide. This trial is the first of its kind to test semaglutide in patients post-bariatric surgery, offering a potential alternative to further surgical interventions.