A new daily pill called orforglipron may help people lose up to 20% of their body weight, according to a large trial by Eli Lilly. In a study of 3,127 adults with obesity, one in five participants taking the once-a-day pill for 72 weeks lost a fifth or more of their weight.
Orforglipron works on GLP-1 receptors, the same target as weight loss injections such as Wegovy and Mounjaro, but offers a more convenient, easier-to-administer tablet form. Patients taking the highest 36mg dose lost an average of 11.2% of their weight, with over half losing at least 10%. The lowest 6mg dose led to an average loss of 7.5%. Participants also saw improvements in blood pressure, waist size, and cholesterol.
Side effects were mostly mild to moderate gastrointestinal issues. Experts say the pill could expand access to effective obesity treatments, as injections can be costly and require more medical support.
Orforglipron has not yet been approved by the FDA or other regulators, but Eli Lilly expects strong demand upon launch. Researchers emphasize the need for continued studies to assess long-term effects, particularly in younger patients.
