The Rise of GLP-1 Clinical Trials

GLP-1 drugs are transforming metabolic health, paving the way for a rich pipeline of therapies that push the boundaries of what’s possible.

Between 2021 and 2024, the number of clinical trial starts grew by roughly 2.4x, from 34 to 80. In 2025 alone, 79 trials have already begun through Q1–Q3. Since 2021, large pharma companies—including Eli Lilly (~28%) and Novo Nordisk (~21%)—have led nearly half of all new trials, while a widening field of biotechs and regional players has driven the rest, signaling broader innovation across the landscape.

What’s next?

Better modes of delivery—such as oral pills—are poised to widen acceptance and improve adherence. Combination therapies now moving deeper into Phases 2 and 3 aim to deliver surgery-like results for obesity. Meanwhile, indications are expanding beyond diabetes and obesity to include cardiovascular risk, NASH/MASH, and kidney outcomes, broadening the field of possibilities.

What does it mean for us?

The growing number of trials, along with a wider mix of sponsors including smaller companies, signals a maturing field and rising demand for operational support. As indications expand across cardiovascular, renal, liver, and neurological areas, successful execution will rely on sites with specialized capabilities and access to distinct patient populations. For sponsors, this diversification raises new questions around site selection, feasibility, and recruitment, where greater visibility and data-driven matching will create a clear advantage.

We’re tracking all of these trends at Double Blind Bio — follow us for more insights!