Vivani Medical's NPM-139 semaglutide implant begins early human trials for obesity and type‑2 diabetes

Vivani Medical has created NPM-139, a sub‑dermal titanium implant that continuously releases the GLP‑1 drug semaglutide for up to a year. The device is intended as a maintenance therapy for obesity and type‑2 diabetes, offering a longer‑acting alternative to weekly injections such as Wegovy or Ozempic.

The company will conduct a Phase 1 safety and pharmacokinetic study, named SLIM‑1, in Australia later this year, comparing the implant to low‑dose Wegovy in about 20 adults with overweight or obesity. Results are expected by the end of 2026. Earlier pre‑clinical work in rodents showed roughly a 20 % reduction in body weight after a year of continuous drug release, and a prior human trial of a related exenatide implant demonstrated a favorable safety profile.

Novo Nordisk, the maker of commercial semaglutide pens, will partner with Vivani on the testing program. If successful, the implant could address adherence challenges, as many patients discontinue GLP‑1 therapy due to injection burden and gastrointestinal side effects.