Pemvidutide
Pemvidutide (ALT-801)
Pemvidutide (ALT-801) is a investigational dual GLP-1/glucagon receptor agonist peptide developed by Altimmune, designed for the treatment of obesity and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH). It combines incretin-mediated appetite suppression with glucagon-driven hepatic fat mobilization and energy expenditure enhancement, distinguishing it from pure GLP-1 agonists by its dual mechanism targeting both weight loss and liver fat reduction.
Mechanism of Action
Pemvidutide simultaneously activates GLP-1 receptors to suppress appetite, slow gastric emptying, and improve glycemic control, while also activating glucagon receptors to increase hepatic fatty acid oxidation, stimulate thermogenesis, and enhance energy expenditure. The balanced GLP-1/glucagon co-agonism produces additive fat-loss effects without the hyperglycemia typically associated with pure glucagon agonism, as the GLP-1 component provides compensatory insulin secretion. This dual receptor engagement also promotes preferential fat mass loss over lean muscle mass compared to GLP-1 monotherapy.
Evidence by Health Goal(18 goals)
Dosing Protocols
Same day each week, subcutaneous injection into abdomen, thigh, or upper arm
Cycle: Dose escalation typically starting at 1.2mg for 4 weeks, then titrating to 1.8mg or 2.4mg based on tolerability
Investigated in clinical trials at weekly subcutaneous doses up to 2.4mg; dose escalation reduces gastrointestinal side effects. Not yet FDA-approved; currently in Phase 2 clinical trials. Research or compounded use only.
Safety & Side Effects
Pemvidutide has demonstrated a generally manageable safety profile in Phase 2 trials, with GI adverse events being the primary concern and largely dose-dependent and transient. It is an investigational compound not approved by the FDA or other major regulatory agencies, and its use outside of clinical trials carries significant regulatory and safety uncertainty; long-term safety data remain limited.
Possible Side Effects
- !Nausea, particularly during dose escalation phase
- !Vomiting, most common in the first 4-8 weeks
- !Decreased appetite and early satiety
- !Diarrhea or loose stools
- !Injection site reactions including mild erythema or discomfort
- !Fatigue or asthenia, especially early in treatment
- !Constipation alternating with loose stools
- !Transient elevations in heart rate consistent with glucagon receptor activity
Interactions
- -May potentiate hypoglycemic effects when combined with insulin or sulfonylureas due to GLP-1 receptor-mediated insulin secretion
- -Slows gastric emptying, potentially reducing absorption rate and peak plasma levels of oral medications including oral contraceptives and thyroid hormones
- -Additive nausea and GI effects when combined with other GLP-1 receptor agonists such as semaglutide or liraglutide — concurrent use not recommended
- -May interact with warfarin by altering its absorption kinetics; INR monitoring advised if used concurrently
- -Glucagon receptor activity may blunt hypoglycemic counter-regulation — use caution in patients on aggressive glucose-lowering regimens
Cost & Where to Buy
Not commercially approved; cost reflects research-grade or compounded peptide sourcing. Pricing is highly variable depending on vendor purity, synthesis quality, and regional availability. Legitimate clinical trial participation may provide access at no cost.
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