Novo Nordisk  has successfully completed the phase 2 trial for OG217SC, an oral formulation of the long-acting GLP-1 analogue semaglutidea, a form of oral insulin, sending its stock shares climbing.

Semaglutide appeared to have “a safe and well-tolerated profile,” according to Novo Nordisk.

The 26-week trial included tests of dose range, escalation, efficacy and safety of once-daily doses compared with an oral placebo or once-weekly subcutaneously administered semaglutide in about 600 people with type 2 diabetes. 

“We are very pleased with the results of this trial confirming the potential of semaglutide to treat type 2 diabetes, both as a once-weekly subcutaneous injection and as a once-daily tablet,” said Mads Krogsgaard Thomsen, executive vice president and chief science officer of Novo Nordisk. “This clinical proof of concept marks an important milestone for oral peptide therapy within the field of diabetes.”