Cagrilintide – Technical Brief (For Research-Use-Only)
1. Identity
Cagrilintide is a synthetic peptide designed as a dual amylin and calcitonin receptor agonist (DACRA), developed by Novo Nordisk. It is being researched for its potential role in weight management and type 2 diabetes treatment.
2. Mechanism of Action
Cagrilintide works by:
- Activating amylin receptors: Enhances satiety and reduces food intake.
- Targeting calcitonin receptors: Slows gastric emptying and regulates postprandial glucagon secretion.
- Prolonging therapeutic effects: Its modified structure extends its half-life to approximately 7.3 days, allowing for weekly subcutaneous administration.
3. Uses
Cagrilintide is primarily researched for:
- Obesity management: Helps regulate appetite and energy balance.
- Type 2 diabetes: Improves glycemic control and metabolic health.
- Combination therapy: Being evaluated alongside semaglutide under the name CagriSema.
4. Dosage
While clinical trials are ongoing, suggested dosing protocols for research purposes include:
- Weekly subcutaneous injections: Dosage varies based on study parameters starting at 250mcg and titrating up as required
- Combination therapy: Often paired with semaglutide for enhanced metabolic effects.
5. Safety Profile
- Common side effects: Nausea, mild gastrointestinal discomfort, and injection site irritation.
- Precautions: Avoid use in individuals with a history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2.
- Long-term effects: Still under investigation, but early data suggests a favorable safety profile.
6. Storage Guidelines
- Before use: Store in a refrigerator (2–8°C / 36–46°F), protected from light.
- After mixing: Keep refrigerated and use within 30–45 days.
- Room temperature storage: If necessary, can be kept at up to 30°C (86°F) for a maximum of 21 days, but should not be returned to refrigeration afterward.
- Do not freeze: Freezing reconstituted vials can degrade the peptide’s integrity.
7. Legality in the UK
Cagrilintide is not yet approved for general medical use in the UK but is undergoing clinical trials. It is currently being evaluated by the MHRA (Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency) for potential therapeutic applications. If approved, it may be prescribed for obesity and type 2 diabetes, pending regulatory decisions.
