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A new weight-loss drug candidate, SANA (MVD1; Eolo Pharma), is generating excitement in the obesity research community for its novel approach: increasing the body’s energy expenditure rather than suppressing appetite. Early clinical results suggest the compound could offer a safe and effective alternative for people struggling with obesity and related metabolic disorders.
How SANA Works
Unlike current weight-loss medications, such as GLP-1 receptor agonists, which primarily reduce appetite, SANA activates creatine-dependent thermogenesis—a process that increases the body’s calorie-burning capacity. According to Eolo Pharma CEO María Pía Garat, SANA is the only small molecule in clinical development targeting this mechanism.
Preclinical studies in animals showed that SANA not only reduced fat mass but also preserved or even increased lean muscle mass, a significant advantage over some existing therapies. The compound also improved insulin resistance and reduced liver fat by enhancing mitochondrial function in fat tissue.
Clinical Trial Results
SANA has completed phase 1a/b trials, which included both healthy volunteers and individuals with obesity. The primary goal was to assess safety and tolerability, while secondary measures included weight loss and metabolic markers. Over a 15-day treatment period, SANA was well tolerated at all tested doses, with no serious adverse events reported.
Participants receiving SANA experienced significant weight loss compared to placebo, along with improvements in fasting glucose and insulin resistance. Notably, these benefits occurred without changes in diet or physical activity.
A Complementary Approach to Obesity Treatment
Garat described SANA as a “complementary therapeutic approach” that could benefit patients who cannot tolerate GLP-1 therapies or who experience undesirable side effects. If upcoming phase 2 trials confirm these findings, SANA could potentially reach the market within four to five years, pending regulatory approval and further trial outcomes.
Context: Limitations of Current Therapies
Existing weight-loss drugs like semaglutide and tirzepatide have shown effectiveness but are often associated with muscle loss, bone density concerns, and gastrointestinal side effects. Real-world data also indicate that many patients discontinue these medications early, resulting in less weight loss than seen in clinical trials. Experts note a need for new therapies that are well tolerated, effective, and address the limitations of current options.
“SANA introduces a novel and potentially complementary therapeutic approach to obesity and metabolic disease—one that doesn’t rely on appetite suppression but instead taps into a previously underutilized biological mechanism, namely, creatine-driven thermogenesis,” said Garat.
Disclaimer:
This article summarizes findings from early-stage clinical research. SANA is not yet approved for general use, and its safety and efficacy must be confirmed in larger, longer-term studies. Individuals should consult healthcare professionals before considering any new weight-loss treatments.
