A new trial suggests that a daily pill could help people lose up to a fifth of their body weight, offering a more convenient alternative to injections. The drug, called orforglipron and developed by Eli Lilly, targets GLP-1 receptors in the same way as jabs such as Mounjaro and Wegovy.
In a 72-week study involving more than 3,000 adults with obesity but no diabetes, one in five participants taking the highest dose lost at least 20% of their body weight. On average, those on the top dose shed about 11%. Patients also saw improvements in blood pressure, cholesterol, and waist size.
While weight loss was less dramatic than with injectable drugs, experts believe the pill will be easier to use, store, and distribute, potentially making it more widely accessible and affordable. The most common side effects were mild to moderate stomach issues.
Orforglipron is not yet approved by regulators, but researchers say it could greatly expand access to obesity treatments. Eli Lilly expects high demand once it launches.
