A once-daily pill for weight loss has been shown to help people reduce their body weight by as much as a fifth, according to a trial that could make treatment more accessible. The drug, orforglipron, is manufactured by Eli Lilly and targets the same GLP-1 receptors as popular injections like Mounjaro and Wegovy.
In a study of 3,127 adults with obesity but without diabetes, one in five participants who took the tablet daily for 72 weeks lost 20% or more of their body weight. Those on the highest dose (36mg) lost an average of 11.2% of their weight, while those on the lowest dose (6mg) lost 7.5%.
Weight loss jabs have been transformative, but pill versions are seen as a holy grail because they are easier to store, distribute and administer, and are expected to be cheaper. Orforglipron is not yet approved by regulators, but Eli Lilly anticipates substantial demand upon launch.
Researchers noted improvements in blood pressure, waist circumference and cholesterol levels among participants. The most common side effects were mild to moderate gastrointestinal issues. Lead author Dr Sean Wharton said the pill could expand obesity interventions to groups currently excluded due to cost or lack of access to injectable medications.
