Summary of Novo Nordisk Phase 3 Trials on Semaglutide for Alzheimer’s Disease:
Novo Nordisk announced results from its two-year Phase 3 trials, Evoque and Evoque Plus, aimed at assessing the efficacy of oral semaglutide for early symptomatic Alzheimer’s disease in 3,808 adults. Although semaglutide did not show superiority in slowing disease progression compared to placebo—as measured by the Clinical Dementia Rating – Box Sum (CDR-SB) score—improvements in biomarkers were noted.
The decision to explore semaglutide for Alzheimer’s was supported by prior real-world evidence and preclinical studies. Martin Horst Lange, the company’s chief scientific officer, emphasized the responsibility to investigate semaglutide’s potential, despite a low expected success rate, and acknowledged participants’ valuable contributions.
Following the findings, the planned one-year extension of the trials will be halted. Full results will be presented at upcoming conferences, including the Clinical Trials in Alzheimer’s Disease (CTAD) Conference in December 2025 and the Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s Disease Conference in March 2026.
Alzheimer’s is a progressive disease and the most common cause of dementia, highlighting the urgent need for effective treatments. Semaglutide, already used for type 2 diabetes and chronic weight management, continues to show benefits in those areas.
Novo Nordisk, founded in 1923, is dedicated to advancing scientific research and improving healthcare solutions globally.
