Popular weight-loss drug found to ease arthritis pain

A study shows that the weight-loss drug semaglutide can reduce knee pain from obesity-related arthritis.

In Short

• Semaglutide, a weight-loss drug, can reduce knee pain
• Arthritis patients, in a study, showed improved physicl activity
• However, weight loss with lifestyle changes is key for sustained health benefits

A new study reveals that the popular weight-loss drug semaglutide can reduce knee pain caused by obesity-related arthritis, making everyday activities like walking easier for many.

Conducted across 11 countries, the clinical trial is the first to demonstrate that a modern anti-obesity drug can relieve arthritis pain.

Semaglutide's effect on pain was shown to be as effective as opioid medications, giving new hope for managing knee arthritis pain without heavy painkillers.

The trial, published in the New England Journal of Medicine, involved around 400 participants with obesity, who received either weekly semaglutide injections or a placebo, alongside guidance on healthy eating and exercise.

At the start, participants averaged a score of 71 on a 100-point pain scale, indicating significant discomfort while walking. After 68 weeks, those who took semaglutide reported an average pain reduction of 42 points, compared to a 28-point decrease in the placebo group.

Many participants also reported improved physical function, such as being able to climb stairs more easily.

Researchers suggest that the pain relief likely results from both weight loss, which reduces strain on the knees, and the drug’s anti-inflammatory properties.

Dr Henning Bliddal, a rheumatologist who co-led the trial, noted that the treatment was so effective that some participants no longer qualified for the study due to reduced pain levels.

While these results offer promising relief, experts caution that semaglutide may not be a long-term solution for arthritis pain.

People often regain weight after stopping the medication, and the drug's high cost, potentially hundreds of dollars monthly, could be a barrier.

According to Dr Leigh Callahan, an epidemiologist, maintaining weight loss with lifestyle changes is key for sustained health benefits.