Pfizer's long-acting obesity shot shows promise with monthly dosing in mid-stage trial
Pfizer reported mid-stage results for PF′3944, an ultra-long-acting GLP-1 obesity drug, showing up to 12.3% weight loss vs placebo at week 28 and about 10.5% when including discontinuations, with no plateau after switching to monthly dosing—suggesting continued weight loss through week 64. The data imply monthly dosing could match weekly regimens, offering convenience in a market led by Eli Lilly and Novo Nordisk. Pfizer plans 10 phase 3 trials this year; modeling suggests a higher monthly dose could achieve roughly 16% weight loss at week 28. The drug was generally well tolerated with mostly mild to moderate GI side effects and some discontinuations due to side effects in both weekly and monthly phases.