Huons Global Diversifies Obesity Treatment Portfolio with Innovative Approaches
Huons Global is strategically expanding its presence in the obesity treatment market, pursuing a multi-faceted approach that includes synthetic peptide development and government-backed research into novel formulations of existing drugs. The company aims to build upon its established over-the-counter (OTC) offerings with a broader range of therapeutic options.
Leading the Market with Herbal-Based Obesity Solutions
Huons Global has a history of success in the obesity treatment market, predating the recent surge in popularity of GLP-1 receptor agonists. The company previously introduced ‘Esrazin’ and ‘Daisencapsule,’ general medicines formulated with natural herbal ingredients. Esrazin, based on the Bangpungtongseongsan herbal prescription, aids in improving abdominal obesity, constipation, and bloating, particularly effective for those with abdominal fat and edema. It supports both waste removal and metabolic balance.
Daisencapsule, containing catechin derived from green tea leaves, contributes to reducing body fat, increasing basal metabolic rate, and promoting energy expenditure. This product is well-suited for maintaining weight loss after a diet. Both products are formulated with herbal ingredients, minimizing burden on the body, allowing for long-term utilize, and enabling personalized weight management based on individual constitution and lifestyle. Their accessibility through pharmacy consultations is also a key advantage. Huons Global revitalized these products in July of last year and initiated joint sales with Samjin Pharmaceutical, strengthening their distribution network.
Strengthening Competitiveness Through Patent Applications
Huons Global is developing an oral formulation of semaglutide, the active ingredient in Wegovy. This effort was spurred by selection for a government-funded ‘Materials, Components, and Technology Development Project (Package Type)’ in September 2024, securing 6.3 billion won in research funding over five years (3 years for phase 1, 2 years for phase 2). Peptide-based pharmaceuticals are known for their high bioavailability and safety.
Central University, National University, and Sungkyunkwan University are collaborating as joint research institutions, with Huons Global leading the technology development. This includes developing absorption enhancers, formulation technologies, and production process technologies. Huons Global filed a patent application last month for a novel composition of semaglutide, designed to avoid infringement on existing patents while enhancing stability and bioavailability. This aims to overcome the limitations of existing oral semaglutide formulations, such as low absolute bioavailability. Animal studies using beagle dogs and diabetic mice have demonstrated improved absorption, weight loss, and HbA1c levels compared to existing oral semaglutide.
Improving Efficacy with Low-Molecular Peptide Technology
Huons Global has been actively pursuing the development of GLP-1-based obesity treatments to secure future growth. The increasing interest in health management and weight loss has driven the popularity of these treatments, initially used for diabetes management, like liraglutide. Liraglutide mimics the action of GLP-1, a hormone secreted by the intestine, to lower blood sugar and induce satiety.
In December of last year, Huons Global received approval from the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety for the Phase 1 clinical trial plan (IND) of its obesity treatment ‘HUC2-676’ in Korea. HUC2-676 is a low-molecular synthetic peptide version of ‘Saxenda,’ developed by Novo Nordisk and already available in Korea. The clinical trial aims to demonstrate equivalence between HUC2-676 and Saxenda in healthy adults. Low-molecular peptides are high-purity compounds created by artificially synthesizing amino acids, commonly used in pharmaceutical development.
Huons Global is also expanding its research into creating semaglutide as a low-molecular peptide injection, preparing to enter the market after the expiration of the Wegovy substance patent in August 2028. Huons Global CEO Song Soo-young stated, “Huons Global has established a foundation in the obesity treatment market through herbal-based general medicines. We will continue to invest in R&D to provide diverse options for obese patients who need weight management.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What is HUC2-676?
HUC2-676 is a low-molecular synthetic peptide version of Saxenda, currently undergoing clinical trials.
What is GLP-1RA?
GLP-1RA (Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonist) is a type of medication that helps lower blood sugar and promote feelings of fullness.
What are Huons Global’s existing obesity treatments?
Huons Global currently offers Esrazin and Daisencapsule, herbal-based general medicines for weight management.
What is the goal of the government-funded research project?
The project aims to develop an oral formulation of semaglutide with improved bioavailability and stability.
Did you know? Low-molecular peptides offer potential advantages in drug delivery due to their smaller size and increased absorption rates.
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