Magdalena Biosciences Launches Preclinical Study on Coca for Appetite Suppression

Jaguar Health, Inc. announced that Magdalena Biosciences, a joint venture with Filament Health, has initiated a preclinical study on the effectiveness of whole leaf coca extract for appetite suppression. The coca extract aims to aid post-GLP-1 weight loss management. This one-month study is taking place in Alberta, Canada. Coca has been used traditionally in the Andean region for managing hunger and fatigue.

Magdalena's research leverages coca's historical use and seeks to develop it under FDA botanical drug guidance. The extract could help those stopping GLP-1 drugs maintain weight loss. The coca leaves are sourced from Empresa Nacional de La Coca in Peru, complying with the Nagoya Protocol.

Alongside appetite suppression, Magdalena plans to explore coca's potential for treating mental health and central nervous system disorders, such as ADHD. The development of these coca-based therapeutics is expected to benefit the people of Peru who have a long history of cultivating coca.