How to Use Apraglutide
Complete guide to Apraglutide dosing, administration, timing, and protocol recommendations.
Quick Overview
Apraglutide is a once-weekly GLP-2 analog for short bowel syndrome, originally from VectivBio and now owned by Ironwood Pharmaceuticals. Its phase 3 STARS trial hit its main goal in 2024, but in April 2025 Ironwood said the FDA wanted a confirmatory trial, partly because patients in STARS got less drug exposure than planned due to how doses were prepared and given. That new trial, STARS-2, started in June 2026, so approval is years away (a submission before end of 2029 has been mentioned).
Dosing Guidelines
Common Dose
2.5-5 mg once weekly by body weight (trial dose)
Frequency
Once weekly
Dose Range
2.5-5 mg once weekly
Note: These are phase 3 trial doses for adults with SBS on IV support, given under specialist supervision. Ironwood itself found the STARS doses delivered less exposure than planned, so even the trial doses are not settled. Not a recommendation.
Administration Method
Subcutaneous injection once weekly
Best Time to Take
Same day each week (trial schedule)
Its long half-life is designed for steady weekly dosing. The trials did not tie it to a time of day.
Protocol Duration
24-week primary endpoint, with treatment continued to week 48 and beyond in STARS
Possible Side Effects
Not everyone experiences these. Individual responses vary.
- •Reported as generally well tolerated in STARS (detailed adverse event tables not yet published in full)
- •Discontinuation for adverse events 3.6% vs 1.9% placebo
- •Expected GLP-2 class effects: abdominal pain, distension, nausea, injection site reactions, stoma changes
- •Fluid overload risk as absorption improves (class effect)
- •Theoretical acceleration of intestinal polyps or tumors (class concern)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the recommended dose for Apraglutide?
2.5-5 mg once weekly by body weight (trial dose)
How do you administer Apraglutide?
Subcutaneous injection once weekly
When is the best time to take Apraglutide?
Same day each week (trial schedule)
How long should you use Apraglutide?
24-week primary endpoint, with treatment continued to week 48 and beyond in STARS
This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult with a healthcare professional before using any peptide. Dosing information is based on research literature and community reports, not medical advice.