New Oral Weight-Loss Drug Burns Fat Without Muscle Loss

The new drug works by activating signaling pathways in the body in a way that positively affects muscles (pixels) / ALJAZIRA 



A new oral drug developed by Atrogi AB offers a promising alternative to injectable weight-loss medications like Ozempic. According to a study published in the journal Cell on June 23, 2025, this innovative treatment—called ATR-258—reduces fat and blood sugar levels without causing muscle loss.

How It Works

ATR-258 is a selective β2-adrenergic receptor agonist that activates muscle-specific pathways without overstimulating the heart. Unlike GLP-1 receptor agonists that act via brain-gut signaling to suppress appetite (and can cause muscle loss), ATR-258 directly boosts skeletal muscle metabolism, mimicking the effects of exercise.

This makes it a potentially ideal therapy for individuals with type 2 diabetes and obesity.

Preclinical and Human Trials

In preclinical models involving diabetic mice and obese rats, the drug improved body composition and blood sugar regulation. The first human trial (Phase I) included 48 healthy volunteers and 25 individuals with type 2 diabetes. Results indicated that ATR-258 is safe and well tolerated.

Details were summarized in a press release by Atrogi AB.

Key Advantages Over Ozempic

  • Oral administration—no injections required
  • Preserves muscle mass unlike GLP-1-based drugs
  • Acts through a different mechanism, enabling combination therapy

GLP-1 receptor agonists like Ozempic suppress hunger, but they also often lead to unwanted loss of muscle. ATR-258, in contrast, stimulates muscle glucose uptake and fat metabolism directly.

Expert Commentary

Professor Shane Wright from the Karolinska Institutet, co-author of the study, noted: “This drug represents a completely new class of treatment with great relevance for patients with type 2 diabetes and obesity.”

Professor Tore Bengtsson from Stockholm University added: “Muscle mass plays a crucial role in metabolic health and longevity. Preserving it while losing fat is a game-changer.”

What’s Next?

Following the success of Phase I trials, Atrogi plans to launch a broader Phase II study to further investigate ATR-258’s effects in people living with type 2 diabetes and obesity.

For more details on this upcoming trial, read the full report on News Medical and New York Post.

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