Researchers at the Nuova Villa Claudia Clinic report that pairing a swallowable gastric balloon with a weight-loss medication can yield about 19% of body weight lost over roughly eight months. The findings are slated for presentation at the European Obesity Congress annual meeting held in Dublin. (attribution: European Obesity Congress)
The trial enrolled 181 participants, with an average starting weight of 94.8 kg. All volunteers received both the gastric balloon and liraglutide, a medication that suppresses insulin release from the pancreas. The drug began 1 to 4 months after the balloon insertion. Following 16 weeks, participants had shed an average of 14% of their initial body weight and had reduced, on average, 74% of their excess weight. After the balloon naturally exited the body, participants transitioned to a Mediterranean diet and maintained it for at least six months. (attribution: Nuova Villa Claudia Clinic)
Gastric balloons have been used for weight management before, but they often require endoscopic placement, which can deter some patients. The latest approach features a swallowable balloon that eliminates a procedure. The device is ingested and fills with liquid within about 20 minutes, shrinking the stomach’s capacity and helping people eat less. Around 16 weeks in, the balloon is expelled from the body naturally. (attribution: Nuova Villa Claudia Clinic)
The mechanism is straightforward: the balloon reduces meal sizes and overall calorie intake. The study also observed that liraglutide contributed to a heightened sense of fullness, enhancing satiety for those in the trial. (attribution: European Obesity Congress)
Across the trial, there were no reports of serious adverse events related to the balloon or medication. A small number of participants, four, discontinued the balloon due to intolerance. The safety signals from the study appear favorable when weighed against potential alternatives for short-term weight reduction and the long-term goals of weight management. (attribution: Nuova Villa Claudia Clinic)
Commentary from clinical experts emphasized cautious use. One physician highlighted that balloons may be best suited for short-term needs, such as when a patient faces immediate risk or cannot undergo certain procedures. For lasting weight management, bariatric surgery, newer medications such as Ozempic and Wegovy, and sustained lifestyle changes including healthier eating, portion control, and regular exercise remain central options. (attribution: Dr. Jamie Kane, New York)