Allurion Technologies, Inc. is breaking new ground by combining GLP-1 therapy with its gastric balloon program. This strategic move aims to optimize weight loss results while addressing the critical issue of muscle mass preservation.
About the Allurion Program
The Allurion Gastric Balloon, the first swallowable and procedure-free weight-loss device, has already revolutionized obesity treatment. In earlier studies, patients on the Allurion program lost weight while maintaining muscle mass. In particular, in one study involving 571 patients, patients with the Allurion balloon gained 5.6 percent in lean body mass. Meanwhile, they also lost 14 percent of their body weight over four months.
With its simplicity and effectiveness, it enables patients to achieve significant weight loss without surgery or downtime. Now, global leader in innovative weight-loss solutions Allurion plans to further enhance these outcomes.
GLP-1 agonists such as semaglutide, wildly popular for their appetite-suppressing and weight-loss properties, have become a common choice for obesity treatment. However, recent studies have highlighted that significant muscle loss often accompanies weight reduction with GLP-1 therapy. In particular, people taking GLP-1 lost up to 40 percent of their lean mass. Given these points, Allurion has developed a comprehensive approach to address this dilemma.
Allurion Meets GLP-1
On January 23, Thursday, the company announced plans to launch a clinical study combining GLP-1 therapy with the Allurion Program. Through the study, Allurion hopes to optimize muscle preservation while promoting weight loss. This integrated strategy could set a new standard for balanced weight management.
“Reductions in lean mass and muscle wasting are significant unmet needs in the GLP-1 space, and our early data suggests that we may have a powerful tool in achieving more metabolically healthy weight loss,” said Allurion founder and CEO, Dr. Shantanu Gaur.
“The goal of our study would be to prove that, by combining the Allurion Balloon and Allurion Virtual Care Suite with GLP-1 therapy, patients can lose significant weight while increasing muscle mass and improving overall body composition,” he added. “We are optimistic that this would be a significant addition to the possibilities of GLP-1 therapies and, if proven, could become the gold standard for obesity care.”
Leveraging Technology
Following Allurion’s big announcement 10 minutes before the market closed, its shares skyrocketed by 70 percent.
Technology plays a pivotal role in this initiative. Allurion’s AI-native behavioral coach, Coach Iris, offers personalized support to patients throughout their journey. The platform uses advanced algorithms to provide real-time feedback, helping users stay on track and achieve their goals. Combined with the Allurion Connected Scale, which monitors weight, muscle mass, and bone mass, this approach ensures a holistic view of patient progress.
Moreover, Allurion’s program is designed with affordability and accessibility in mind. By addressing the cost barriers of weight-loss treatments, the company aims to make its solutions widely available.
Best of Both Worlds
The integration of GLP-1 therapy with the Allurion Gastric Balloon marks a significant step forward in obesity treatment. The combined approach not only enhances weight loss outcomes but also ensures muscle preservation—a crucial factor for overall health and sustainability.
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