A new daily pill for weight loss, orforglipron, has shown that one in five people can lose 20% or more of their body weight over 72 weeks, according to a trial by Eli Lilly. The drug targets GLP-1 receptors, like popular weight loss injections Mounjaro and Wegovy, but in a tablet form that is easier to store, distribute, and take.
In a study of 3,127 adults with obesity, patients taking the highest dose lost an average of 11.2% of their weight, with 18.4% shedding at least 20%. Improvements were also seen in blood pressure, waist size, and cholesterol. The most common side effects were mild to moderate gastrointestinal issues.
Orforglipron is not yet approved by the FDA or other regulators, but experts believe its accessibility and convenience could make effective obesity treatment available to millions more people. Separate research suggests GLP-1 drugs may also be effective for children with obesity or type 2 diabetes, though stomach issues are more common in younger patients.
