A large phase 3 trial tested the new GLP-1 pill orforglipron in adults with type 2 diabetes.
Participants lost up to eight percent of their body weight within one year.
The drug activates GLP-1 receptors, lowers blood sugar, and reduces appetite.
Patients can take it without fasting, which simplifies daily use.
More than 1,500 people joined the international study.
Researchers compared two doses of orforglipron with oral semaglutide.
Orforglipron produced stronger weight loss and better glucose control.
However, more patients stopped treatment because of gastrointestinal side effects.
About ten percent discontinued the new drug, compared with five percent on semaglutide.
Regulators have not yet approved orforglipron.
Experts believe effective tablets could widen access and lower costs.
They also expect future therapies to target weight, glucose, and heart risk together.
