Alzheimer’s Association Comments on Phase 3 Trial Results of Oral Semaglutide

Alzheimer's Association Comments on Phase 3 Trial Results of Oral Semaglutide

On November 24, 2025, the Alzheimer's Association released a statement addressing the outcomes of clinical trials named Evoke and Evoke+, which evaluated the effect of oral semaglutide on early-stage symptomatic Alzheimer's disease. The findings revealed that the trials did not demonstrate a statistically significant reduction in the progression of Alzheimer's, a result that has raised concerns and questions within the research community.

Joanne Pike, DrPH, President and CEO of the Alzheimer's Association, expressed disappointment regarding the trial results, stating, "Although these results are not what we hoped for, they will contribute to our understanding of this devastating and deadly disease." She emphasized the critical role that data from every clinical trial plays in accelerating insights into Alzheimer’s disease, and reiterated the organization’s commitment to uncovering effective treatments and preventive strategies.

Despite the trials' failure to show significant benefits in slowing disease progression, the results did indicate an improvement in biomarkers associated with Alzheimer’s. The Alzheimer's Association highlighted that the Evoke and Evoke+ trials were extensive, involving over 3,800 participants aged 55 to 85 who were diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) or mild dementia stemming from Alzheimer’s disease, categorically known as stages 3 and 4 of Alzheimer’s.

Maria C. Carrillo, Ph.D., Chief Science Officer at the Alzheimer’s Association, noted, "While this semaglutide pill was not effective against Alzheimer's, the research surrounding this class of drugs will continue, as they may function differently in other contexts. Our association remains a leader in innovative research and we believe it is vital to pursue a range of treatment and prevention approaches."

The Alzheimer's treatment landscape remains promising, with a recent analysis indicating 182 active clinical trials exploring 138 innovative drugs. The Alzheimer’s Association provides strategic funding through its "Part the Cloud" initiative to support potentially groundbreaking therapies in clinical trials, recognizing the increasing agreement that effective treatment and prevention for Alzheimer’s will likely require a tailored combination of multiple interventions.

For individuals experiencing early-stage Alzheimer's, several approved treatments are currently available. The association encourages those affected to consult their healthcare provider regarding available options. Patients might also explore participation in clinical trials, utilizing resources such as the Alzheimer’s Association’s TrialMatch service for more information.

Moving forward, the Alzheimer’s Association awaits further insights and in-depth analyses of the data, which are anticipated to be shared during the Clinical Trials in Alzheimer's Disease (CTAD) meeting scheduled for December.

About the Alzheimer’s Association

The Alzheimer’s Association is a global voluntary health organization dedicated to the care, support, and research of Alzheimer’s disease. Our mission is to lead the way in eradicating Alzheimer’s and all other dementias, driving global research, reducing risks and ensuring early detection while maximizing quality care and support. Our vision is a world without Alzheimer’s or other dementias. For more information, visit alz.org or call 800.272.3900.