A new daily pill, orforglipron, has shown promise in helping people with obesity lose up to a fifth of their body weight over 72 weeks, according to a trial by Eli Lilly. The tablet targets GLP-1 receptors, similar to injectable treatments like Mounjaro and Wegovy, but offers the advantage of easier administration and potentially lower cost.
In the study of 3,127 adults across multiple countries, participants taking the highest dose of orforglipron lost an average of 11.2% of their body weight, while one in five achieved reductions of 20% or more. Other health benefits included lower blood pressure, reduced waist circumference, and improved cholesterol levels. The most common side effects were mild to moderate gastrointestinal issues.
Orforglipron is not yet approved by the FDA or other regulators, but researchers say the pill could expand access to effective obesity treatments for those unable to use injectable medications. Longer-term studies are still needed to fully understand its effects, particularly in children and adolescents.
