Overview

Cagrilintide is a long-acting acylated amylin analog developed by Novo Nordisk. Amylin is a 37-amino acid peptide co-secreted with insulin from pancreatic beta cells that suppresses postprandial glucagon, slows gastric emptying, and promotes satiety. Cagrilintide's extended half-life allows once-weekly subcutaneous dosing. When combined with semaglutide (as CagriSema), the dual amylin/GLP-1 mechanism produced up to 25.2% weight loss in Phase II trials, with Phase III data anticipated in 2025–2026.

Mechanism of Action

Cagrilintide binds amylin receptors (AMY1, AMY2, AMY3 — complexes of calcitonin receptor with receptor activity-modifying proteins RAMP1-3) in the area postrema and nucleus accumbens, activating cAMP-mediated signaling. This suppresses postprandial glucagon secretion, delays gastric emptying to reduce postprandial glycemic excursions, and activates hypothalamic satiety circuits via POMC neurons. The amylin mechanism is complementary and additive to GLP-1 receptor agonism, explaining the superior weight loss of the CagriSema combination.

Potential Benefits

  • Sustained appetite suppression via amylin receptor activation
  • Postprandial glucagon suppression
  • Gastric emptying delay reducing postprandial glucose excursions
  • Significant weight loss as monotherapy (10–15%)
  • Superior weight loss in combination with semaglutide (up to 25.2% in Phase II)

Dosage Protocols

The following reflects doses used in published research studies. This is not medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Beginner0.16 mg weekly titrating upward
Intermediate1.2 mg weekly
Advanced2.4 mg weekly (Phase II dose)
Cycle DurationChronic use for weight management (trial protocol)

Novo Nordisk amylin analog. Typically co-administered with semaglutide ('CagriSema').

Routes of Administration

Subcutaneous Injection High

Once-weekly SC injection. As part of CagriSema fixed-dose combination at 2.4 mg. Also studied as monotherapy (2.4 mg/week in Phase 2). Dose escalation protocol over ~16 weeks.

Stacking Protocols

Popular research stacks involving Cagrilintide:

CagriSema (Cagrilintide + Semaglutide)

Phase III combination therapy for obesity — ~15-20% weight loss in Phase II. Co-formulated once-weekly injection.

Reconstitution

StorageRefrigerate at 2-8°C after reconstitution. Do not freeze reconstituted solution.

Typical vial sizes: 5-10 mg. Add bac water slowly down the side of the vial, swirl gently — do not shake. Use insulin syringe for precise dosing.

Need exact syringe measurements?

Amino Acid Sequence

Modified 37 AA amylin sequence with fatty acid acylation for half-life extension

Side Effects & Safety

  • Nausea and vomiting (class effect)
  • Injection site reactions
  • Diarrhea
  • Decreased appetite (intended but can be excessive)

Safety & Contraindications

This information is for educational purposes only. Consult a qualified healthcare provider before using any peptide.

Relative

Pregnancy / Lactation

Relative

Bleeding Disorders

Absolute

Active Skin Infection at Injection Site

Drug Interactions

  • Oral Medications (general):

Pharmacokinetics

Half-Life~7 days (acylated amylin analog with long-chain fatty acid for albumin binding; once-weekly dosing)
StorageRefrigerate at 2–8°C; do not freeze; protect from light; administered as part of CagriSema fixed-dose pen

Synergistic Compounds

The following compounds have been studied alongside Cagrilintide for potential complementary or synergistic effects:

Learn More

References & Further Reading