A new daily pill for weight loss, called orforglipron, could help people reduce their body weight by up to 20%, according to a large international trial. Manufactured by Eli Lilly, the pill targets GLP-1 receptors, similar to popular injectable treatments like Mounjaro and Wegovy, but offers a more convenient, potentially cheaper option.
In a 72-week study of 3,127 adults with obesity, participants taking the highest dose of orforglipron lost an average of 11.2% of their body weight. About 18% of patients on the highest dose lost 20% or more, while 55% lost at least 10%. The trial also reported improvements in blood pressure, waist size, and cholesterol, with most side effects being mild to moderate gastrointestinal issues.
Experts say the pill could expand access to obesity treatments by providing an alternative to injections, which are costlier and more complicated to administer. Orforglipron is not yet approved by the FDA or other regulators, but Eli Lilly expects strong demand upon launch.
Separate research indicates GLP-1 drugs could be effective in children as young as six with obesity or type 2 diabetes, though further studies are needed to assess long-term effects and safety in younger patients.
