Investigational GLP-1 and glucagon dual agonist peptide
BI 456906
A dual GLP-1/glucagon agonist with promising phase 2 weight-loss and liver-fat data, still investigational.
- Evidence:
- Limited human evidence
- Status:
- Investigational
- Reviewed:
- 2026-08-03
Also known as: BI 456906, GLP-1/glucagon dual agonist
What is BI 456906?
A dual GLP-1/glucagon agonist with promising phase 2 weight-loss and liver-fat data, still investigational.
This profile is educational. It organizes publicly discussed research context for BI 456906 and related naming aliases — it is not a treatment guide.
Proposed mechanism
Balanced co-agonism at GLP-1 and glucagon receptors to reduce appetite while increasing energy expenditure and improving hepatic lipid metabolism.
Mechanism language on PepGuide describes how researchers discuss pathways. Proposed mechanisms can change as evidence evolves.
Current research notes
Human evidence grade: Limited human evidence
Preclinical evidence grade: Moderate human evidence
Survodutide phase 2 data showed substantial weight loss and MASH-related improvements in some cohorts. Researchers have studied glucagon co-agonism for liver fat reduction. Human evidence remains limited to mid-stage trials; regulatory approval has not been granted.
Key uncertainties
- Optimal glucagon/GLP-1 balance
- Long-term hepatic outcomes
Research areas being studied
- Obesity
- MASH/NAFLD
- Type 2 diabetes
Being studied for a topic is not the same as proven benefit in that topic. Prefer primary literature for study design, endpoints, and limitations.
Safety & side-effect notes
Reported or discussed adverse effects
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
Additional risks & considerations
- GI tolerability
- Heart rate and blood pressure effects under study
- Incomplete phase 3 data
Regulatory status
Investigational
Regulatory framing here is educational and can lag policy changes. Check official sources for current status.
Frequently asked questions
What is BI 456906?
A dual GLP-1/glucagon agonist with promising phase 2 weight-loss and liver-fat data, still investigational.
How does BI 456906 work (proposed mechanism)?
Balanced co-agonism at GLP-1 and glucagon receptors to reduce appetite while increasing energy expenditure and improving hepatic lipid metabolism.
What is BI 456906 being researched for?
BI 456906 has been discussed in research contexts including: Obesity, MASH/NAFLD, Type 2 diabetes.
What does current evidence say about BI 456906?
Limited human evidence. Survodutide phase 2 data showed substantial weight loss and MASH-related improvements in some cohorts. Researchers have studied glucagon co-agonism for liver fat reduction. Human evidence remains limited to mid-stage trials; regulatory approval has not been granted.
What safety considerations are noted for BI 456906?
Reported or discussed considerations include: Nausea; Diarrhea; Vomiting; GI tolerability; Heart rate and blood pressure effects under study; Incomplete phase 3 data. This is educational information, not medical advice.
References & sources
- Sanyal AJ et al. (2024). Survodutide for obesity and liver fat — phase 2 trial — Lancet. Evidence type: human.
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Educational and research information only. PepGuide does not sell or prescribe peptides, diagnose conditions, or provide personalized medical advice. Evidence summaries may include early-stage, animal, or limited human research — none of that is a substitute for primary literature or clinician guidance.