Vivani pursues long-acting GLP-1 implant to boost adherence

Vivani Medical is developing a tiny, under-the-skin implant that releases semaglutide to provide steady GLP-1 drug exposure for obesity/diabetes treatment, aiming to improve long-term adherence and potentially reduce side effects. The device uses a membrane with millions of microchannels to deliver a consistent dose over months, with a long-term goal of biannual or annual dosing. The first human trial, SLIM-1, is expected to begin mid-2026 in Australia, comparing implants to a low-dose Wegovy injection; if safe and effective, later studies would define dosing and regulatory approval. Key questions remain on comparative efficacy, tolerability, cost, insurance coverage, and how easily providers will adopt in practice; Novo Nordisk is collaborating but not licensing at this stage.