A new study suggests that the popular weight-loss drug semaglutide may reduce knee pain caused by obesity-related arthritis, making everyday activities like walking easier for many people.

Conducted in 11 countries, the clinical trial is the first to demonstrate that a modern anti-obesity drug can relieve arthritis pain.

The effect of semaglutide on pain was found to be as effective as opioid drugs, providing new hope in managing the pain of knee arthritis without heavy painkillers.

The trial, published in the New England Journal of Medicine, involved nearly 400 participants with obesity who were given weekly semaglutide injections or a placebo, along with guidance on healthy eating and exercise.

At the beginning, participants received an average score of 71 on a 100-point pain scale, indicating significant discomfort while walking. After 68 weeks, those taking semaglutide reported an average pain reduction of 42 points, compared with a 28-point reduction in the placebo group.

Many participants also reported improvements in physical functioning, such as being able to climb stairs more easily.

The researchers suggest that the pain relief probably comes from both weight loss, which reduces stress on the knees, and the anti-inflammatory properties of the drug.

Dr. Henning Bliedle, a rheumatologist who co-led the trial, said the treatment was so effective that some participants were no longer eligible for the study due to reduced pain levels.

Although these results provide promising relief, experts caution that semaglutide may not be a long-term solution to arthritis pain.

People often gain weight again after stopping the drug, and the high cost of the drug, potentially hundreds of dollars monthly, can be a barrier.

According to epidemiologist Dr. Leigh Callahan, losing weight along with lifestyle changes is important for sustained recovery.