Semaglutide with Basal Insulin Effective in Diabetes Management: Study
A new systematic review and meta-analysis published in the Clinical Nutrition ESPEN revealed promising outcomes for the combined use of semaglutide and basal insulin in managing type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). This study analyzed 7 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) which involved 2,354 patients and found significant improvements in glycemic control and weight loss without a higher risk of serious adverse events.
The primary measure of the research was to assess changes in hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) levels. Secondary outcomes included weight loss, fasting blood glucose (FPG) changes, and the incidence of adverse effects, including gastrointestinal reactions.
The patients who received a combination of semaglutide and basal insulin experienced a substantial reduction in HbA1c levels, with a mean difference of -1.17% when compared to placebo or other treatments. Weight loss was also notable, where the patients shed an average of 5.99 kg, and fasting blood glucose levels dropped by 1.08%.
While the combination treatment did not increase the risk of general adverse events, it was associated with a higher occurrence of gastrointestinal issues such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Also, there was no increased risk of hypoglycemia which is a common concern in diabetes management.
The findings support the potential of semaglutide in combination with basal insulin as an effective treatment strategy for individuals with T2DM who require intensified glycemic control and weight management. These results may influence treatment guidelines and offer clinicians a safer option for managing complex cases of diabetes without the heightened risk of dangerous blood sugar lows.
Given its impact on both glycemic control and weight loss, semaglutide continues to demonstrate versatility as a crucial tool in the therapeutic arsenal for T2DM management. Overall, this research offers hope for people living with type 2 diabetes by highlighting a treatment regimen that achieves clinical goals while minimizing risks. Further studies and dedicated trials may refine the dosage guidelines and help optimize patient outcomes.
Source:
Chen, B., Tao, L., Tian, M., & Ji, Z. (2025). Efficacy and safety of combination of semaglutide and basal insulin in patients with of type 2 diabetes mellitus: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Clinical Nutrition ESPEN. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.clnesp.2025.01.056
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