Does Soliqua cause weight gain?

Weight gain is not a common side effect for Soliqua (insulin glargine and lixisenatide). In some clinical studies, patients using Soliqua had an average weight loss of 0.1 and 0.3 kg (0.2 and 0.7 lb). In contrast, patients using only insulin glargine had a weight gain of 1.1 and 2 kg (2.6 and 4.4 lb).

• Weight gain can occur with insulin-containing products, including Soliqua, and has been attributed to the tissue building (anabolic) effects of insulin, as noted by the manufacturer.
• In contrast, glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) agonists typically lead to weight loss.
• Combined use of these 2 products may help to offset the weight gain that some patients experience with the use of insulin glargine (brand names: Basaglar, Lantus, Toujeo) alone.

Clinical studies and weight loss with Soliqua 100/33

Studies have shown that the use of Soliqua 100/33 may help to reduce the amount of weight gained when compared to using insulin glargine alone.

In one 30-week research study called the LixiLan-O study, insulin glargine/lixisenatide (the two components of Soliqua) was compared with both components individually, insulin glargine (Lantus) and lixisenatide (Adlyxin), given separately.

• This study was conducted in patients with type 2 diabetes who were inadequately controlled on oral type 2 diabetes medicines, including metformin.
• Patients using insulin glargine/lixisenatide (Soliqua) had a weight loss of 0.3 kg (0.6 lbs), while patients who received only insulin glargine had a weight increase of 1.1 kg.
• Those using only lixisenatide had a weight loss of 2.3 kg.

In a subgroup analysis of the LixiLan-O study, researchers looked at patients with a high A1C of at least 9%.

• A1C is a measure of blood sugar control over several months.
• Those receiving insulin glargine/lixisenatide at the start of the study had less weight gain (1.3 kg or 2.9 lbs) as compared to those using only insulin glargine (2 kg or 4.4 lbs).
• Those using only lixisenatide had a weight loss of 1.5 kg (3.3 lbs).

Another subgroup analysis of the LixiLan-O study looked at patients whose type 2 diabetes was uncontrolled when using two oral agents.

• Results showed that treatment with insulin glargine/lixisenatide (the components of Soliqua) resulted in a weight loss of 0.1 kg (0.2 lbs) compared to a weight gain of 1.3 kg (2.9 lbs) in those receiving insulin glargine only, a statistically significant effect.
• Those using only lixisenatide had a weight loss of 2.3 kg (5 lbs).

In the LixiLan-L study, insulin glargine/lixisenatide (the components of Soliqua) was compared to insulin glargine in patients with type 2 diabetes who were not controlled on basal insulin and oral glucose-lowering agents.

• A beneficial effect on body weight was seen at 30 weeks.
• The average body weight decreased by 0.7 kg (1.5 lbs) with insulin glargine/lixisenatide but increased by 0.7 kg (1.5 lbs) in patients using insulin glargine only. This difference was found to be statistically significant.

Related questions

• Soliqua vs Lantus: What’s the difference between them?
• Can Soliqua be taken at night?
• What is the difference between Soliqua and Xultophy?

Bottom Line

• Weight gain is not a common side effect for Soliqua (insulin glargine/lixisenatide).
• In some clinical studies, patients using Soliqua had an average weight loss of 0.1 and 0.3 kg (0.2 and 0.7 lb). In contrast, patients using only insulin glargine (Lantus) had a weight gain of 1.1 and 2 kg (2.6 and 4.4 lb).
• Insulin can lead to a weight gain. GLP-1 agonists are known to cause weight loss. Soliqua, which contains the GLP-1 agonist lixisenatide, may help to offset any weight gain due to insulin glargine.

This is not all the information you need to know about Soliqua 100/33 for safe and effective use. Review the full Soliqua 100/33 information here, and discuss this information with your doctor or other health care provider.