Poolbeg Pharma has developed a delivery system designed to enhance oral administration of GLP-1R agonists. This scalable, GRAS (Generally Recognised as Safe)-approved technology allows metabolic peptides to reach specific gut regions and enter systemic circulation, targeting conditions like diabetes and obesity. With the global GLP-1R agonist market projected to surpass $150 billion by 2031, this innovation responds to the increasing demand for metabolic disease treatments, particularly as worldwide obesity rates have nearly tripled since 1975. Obesity treatment could soon rank among the top 12 global therapeutic areas.
Poolbeg’s clinical trial is now in advanced planning stages, aiming to demonstrate that an oral GLP-1R agonist can be successfully delivered in humans. AnaBio Technologies, Poolbeg’s collaborator, has already validated this approach through the commercial use of encapsulated probiotics and nutraceuticals. In December 2022, Poolbeg secured an exclusive license from InsuCaps, AnaBio’s sister company, for oral delivery technology to treat metabolic diseases such as obesity, pre-diabetes, and diabetes.
Oral delivery offers several benefits over traditional injection methods. By using a food-grade encapsulation platform, Poolbeg’s technology provides natural biodegradability and allows for targeted release within specific gut regions. This adaptable solution eliminates the need for injections, reducing the necessity for trained medical staff and removing issues associated with needle phobia and biohazard waste. The oral format also promotes better patient compliance.
In terms of production and distribution, the technology offers increased efficiency. With superior thermostability, reduced cold chain requirements, and a longer shelf life, this delivery system can be manufactured and distributed more easily than injectable counterparts, supporting greater accessibility to treatment worldwide.
Poolbeg Pharma’s oral GLP-1R agonist delivery system presents a transformative solution for metabolic disease treatment, combining ease of use, manufacturing efficiency, and patient-friendly administration, all while addressing a fast-growing market.
Poolbeg Pharma plc (LON:POLB) is a clinical stage infectious disease pharmaceutical company, with a novel capital light clinical model which enables us to develop multiple products faster and more cost effectively than the traditional biotech model.
