Vivani Wins Approval for 20-Patient Semaglutide Implant Trial as Novo Evaluates Obesity Device
Updated
Updated · CNBC · Jul 11
Vivani Wins Approval for 20-Patient Semaglutide Implant Trial as Novo Evaluates Obesity Device
1 articles · Updated · CNBC · Jul 11
Summary
Australia’s ethics approval cleared Vivani to start SLIM-1 in mid-2026, the first human trial of its semaglutide implant, enrolling about 20 overweight or obese adults.
The phase 1 study will compare the implant with low-dose weekly Wegovy over four weeks, focusing on safety, tolerability and drug-release patterns while also tracking weight loss.
Vivani aims to use the under-skin device as a maintenance option after patients stabilize on existing GLP-1 drugs, with the current version designed for replacement every six months and a longer-term goal of annual dosing.
Novo Nordisk this week agreed to evaluate the lead implant, NPM-139, but doctors said demand will depend on human data showing it can match existing medicines on efficacy, side effects and long-term adherence.
The bet is that a long-acting implant could reduce drop-off from GLP-1 therapy—often estimated at roughly half of patients within a year—in a market some analysts see topping $100 billion by the early 2030s.
Will health insurers embrace a pricey weight-loss implant, or will cost and red tape keep it from patients?
In the race for long-acting solutions, is an implant a game-changer or a complex detour from monthly injections?
Vivani’s Semaglutide Implant Targets 2026 Clinical Milestone: How Ultra Long-Acting Drug Delivery Could Transform Obesity Care and Challenge Novo Nordisk
Overview
Vivani Medical has launched its SLIM-1™ clinical trial in mid-2026, marking the start of its SLIM™ Clinical Program for obesity. The centerpiece is NPM-139, a miniature, ultra long-acting semaglutide implant designed for chronic weight management. This implant aims to provide a steady release of medication, offering a more convenient and consistent alternative to daily or weekly injections. Vivani is also working on a next-generation version to deliver larger doses. These efforts represent a major step forward in addressing obesity and improving patient experience with long-term, easy-to-use treatments.