A new daily pill for weight loss, orforglipron, could help people lose up to a fifth of their body weight, according to a trial by Eli Lilly. In a study of 3,127 adults with obesity, one in five participants taking the pill for 72 weeks lost 20% or more of their weight.
Orforglipron works on GLP-1 receptors, like weight loss injections such as Mounjaro and Wegovy, but offers a more convenient and potentially cheaper oral option. Participants on the highest dose, 36mg daily, lost an average of 11.2% of their body weight, with over half losing at least 10%. Other health benefits included reduced blood pressure, smaller waist circumference, and lower “bad” cholesterol.
Side effects were mostly mild to moderate gastrointestinal issues. The pill is not yet approved by the FDA or other regulators, but Eli Lilly anticipates strong demand upon launch. Researchers say the tablet could expand access to obesity treatments for people who cannot use injections.
Separate studies indicate GLP-1 medications may also help children as young as six, though stomach issues are more common in younger patients, and longer-term studies are needed.
