Intranasal glucagon acutely increases energy expenditure without inducing hyperglycaemia in overweight/obese adults. Issue 6 (4th March 2019) - Stahel, Priska
Abstract : Aim: To assess the acute effects of 0.7 mg intranasal glucagon (ING) vs intranasal placebo (INP) on food intake and resting energy expenditure (REE). Methods: A single‐blind, crossover study was conducted in 19 overweight/obese adults (15 men, 4 women). REE was assessed by indirect calorimetry over 90 minutes, after which appetite was assessed using a visual analogue scale, and ad libitum caloric intake was assessed. Plasma samples were obtained at baseline and at 15‐minute intervals post‐treatment up to 90 minutes. Results: ING increased total REE (INP 61.5 ± 1.2 kcal vs ING 69.4 ± 1.2 kcal; P = 0.027). There were no between‐treatment differences in blood glucose, food intake and appetite. There were no adverse effects. Conclusion: ING acutely increases REE without increasing plasma glucose. Longer term studies with multiple daily dosing will establish whether this affects body weight.