UK clinical trials - updated daily from ClinicalTrials.gov
Find clinical trials for obesity in the United Kingdom. Explore treatment pathways including GLP-1 receptor agonists, weight management, and metabolic surgery.
Obesity affects 28% of adults in England and is classified as a disease by the World Health Organization. Beyond BMI, obesity involves complex metabolic, hormonal, and genetic factors. It increases risk of type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, certain cancers, and significantly impacts quality of life. Clinical trials for obesity have expanded dramatically with the GLP-1 receptor agonist revolution.
NHS treatment follows a stepped approach: lifestyle interventions (diet, exercise, behavioural therapy), then pharmacotherapy. Semaglutide (Wegovy) is now available on the NHS for BMI ≥35 with comorbidities, or BMI ≥30 with specialist assessment. Tirzepatide (Mounjaro) is emerging as the next generation treatment with even greater weight loss. Bariatric surgery (gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomy) remains the most effective long-term option for severe obesity.
GLP-1 receptor agonists have transformed obesity treatment. Semaglutide 2.4mg achieves ~15% body weight loss, tirzepatide achieves ~20%. Next-generation agents in trials target even greater weight loss: retatrutide (triple agonist), amycretin, and orforglipron (oral). These drugs are also being studied for cardiovascular protection, kidney benefits, and addiction disorders.
The UK is a major hub for obesity research. Current trials include: next-generation GLP-1/GIP/glucagon triple agonists, oral GLP-1 alternatives, combination therapies with amylin analogues, long-acting injectables (monthly dosing), obesity in specific populations (adolescents, older adults, post-bariatric patients), and novel targets like muscle-sparing weight loss. Many trials are available through NHS weight management services.
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