A new daily weight loss pill, orforglipron, has shown promise in helping people shed up to 20% of their body weight, according to a trial by Eli Lilly. The study included 3,127 adults with obesity, and one in five participants taking the once-a-day pill for 72 weeks lost at least a fifth of their body weight.
Orforglipron works on the same GLP-1 receptors as popular injectable treatments like Mounjaro and Wegovy but offers the convenience of a tablet, making it easier to store, distribute, and take. Participants taking the highest dose, 36mg, lost an average of 11.2% of their weight, with over half reducing at least 10%. The trial also noted improvements in blood pressure, waist circumference, and cholesterol levels.
Side effects were mainly mild to moderate gastrointestinal issues. The pill is not yet approved by the FDA or other regulators, but Eli Lilly expects strong demand once it becomes available. Experts say tablet forms of weight loss drugs could expand access to effective treatments for people who cannot use injectable medications.
Separate research suggests GLP-1 drugs may also be effective in children as young as six with obesity or type 2 diabetes, though stomach problems are more common, highlighting the need for longer-term studies.
