Novo Nordisk And The United Laboratories Report Strong Phase 2 Results For Triple Agonist UBT251 In Type 2 Diabetes

The United Laboratories International Holdings Limited and Novo Nordisk have reported topline results from a Phase 2 clinical trial in China evaluating UBT251, a novel triple agonist targeting GLP-1, GIP, and glucagon receptors. The therapy is being co-developed with United Biotechnology leading efforts in Greater China, while Novo Nordisk oversees development globally under a partnership established in 2025.

The study assessed once-weekly doses of UBT251 (2 mg, 4 mg, and 6 mg) in people with type 2 diabetes, comparing outcomes against placebo and semaglutide. After 24 weeks, patients receiving UBT251 achieved a maximum HbA1c reduction of 2.16%, outperforming semaglutide (1.77%) and placebo (0.66%). These findings highlight the therapy’s strong potential in improving glycemic control.

"The success of the phase 2 trial for UBT251 in Chinese patients with type 2 diabetes marks a significant milestone in the innovative development of TUL,” remarked Mr Tsoi Hoi Shan, Chairman of TUL. "We will fully advance the phase 3 trial in China, committed to providing superior treatment options for patients worldwide.”

In addition to glucose-lowering effects, UBT251 demonstrated notable weight loss benefits. Patients experienced up to 9.8% reduction in body weight, compared to 4.8% with semaglutide and 1.4% with placebo. Improvements were also observed across secondary endpoints, including waist circumference, blood pressure, and lipid profiles, indicating broader metabolic benefits.

“Following the recent positive read-out of phase 2 data in people with overweight or obesity, we are encouraged to see the results of this trial, which also demonstrate the potential of UBT251 in a type 2 diabetes population,” said Martin Holst Lange, executive vice president, chief scientific officer and head of Research and Development at Novo Nordisk. “Novo Nordisk will initiate a global phase 2 trial with UBT251 in people with type 2 diabetes later this year, and we are already conducting a global phase 2 trial in weight management that will read out next year.”

The safety and tolerability profile of UBT251 was consistent with other triple agonists. Looking ahead, Novo Nordisk has already initiated a global early-stage trial in overweight and obese populations, with results expected in 2027, and plans to launch a global Phase 2 diabetes study in 2026. Meanwhile, United Biotechnology is preparing to begin two Phase 3 trials in China and will present detailed data from the current study at an upcoming medical conference.