Efficacy and safety of semaglutide for obesity and hyperphagia in adults with Prader-Willi syndrome

Prader-Willi syndrome is a genetic disorder characterized by excessive food intake and early-onset obesity caused by hypothalamic dysfunction. A study followed 12 adult patients with the syndrome (mean age 28.3 years, 83% female) treated with semaglutide over a median of 17.2 months. Semaglutide prevented further weight gain (pre-treatment +5.7%, during treatment -3.1%), with 75% of patients having type 2 diabetes. Hyperphagia significantly decreased as measured by a specialized questionnaire (reduction of 7.3 points). In patients with elevated HbA1c levels, glycemic control improved by 4.2%. Adverse effects were mild and occurred in 25% of patients, without need for treatment discontinuation. The authors concluded that semaglutide is safe and effective for weight maintenance and reduction of hyperphagia.