Albiglutide
Formerly approved once-weekly GLP-1 receptor agonist for type 2 diabetes, withdrawn commercially for business reasons despite a positive cardiovascular-outcomes trial (HARMONY).
01 Overview
Albiglutide (Tanzeum/Eperzan) was a once-weekly GLP-1 receptor agonist created by fusing two GLP-1 dimers to human albumin for a long half-life. It was approved for type 2 diabetes and reduced cardiovascular events in the HARMONY Outcomes trial.
Despite favourable outcome data, GSK withdrew it from the market in 2018 for commercial rather than safety reasons. Its weight-loss effect was modest compared with newer agents, and it is no longer available.
02 Mechanism
Albumin-fused GLP-1 dimer that agonises the GLP-1 receptor with an extended half-life, stimulating insulin secretion and suppressing glucagon.
03 Dosing
| Tier | Dose | Route | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Maintenance | 30–50 mg/wk | SubQ | Once weekly; 30 mg starting, up to 50 mg |
04 Effects
| Effect | Magnitude | Evidence | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Improved glycaemic controlEffective HbA1c lowering in type 2 diabetes. | HbA1c reduction | Clinical | |
| Reduced cardiovascular eventsSignificant reduction in the HARMONY Outcomes trial. | -22% MACE | Clinical |
05 Side effects
| Effect | Severity | Frequency | Evidence | Countermeasures |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Injection-site reactionsMore frequent local reactions than some GLP-1 agonists. | Mild | Common | Clinical | |
| Gastrointestinal effectsNausea and diarrhoea, generally milder than other agents. | Mild | Common | Clinical |