A groundbreaking weight loss pill developed by the makers of Mounjaro has shown stunning results. The once-a-day tablet, called orforglipron, helped overweight and obese patients with type 2 diabetes shed nearly 10% of their body weight and drastically slash high blood sugar levels.
In a late-stage trial lasting 72 weeks, patients lost an average of 9.6% of their weight on the highest dose of the drug, while blood sugar (HbA1c) dropped by up to 1.7%, bringing dangerous levels back under control.
How Orforglipron Works
- Orforglipron belongs to GLP-1 agonists, the same class as Mounjaro and Wegovy.
- It curbs appetite and keeps users feeling fuller for longer.
- Unlike current injectable drugs, this pill offers needle-free convenience.
- Can be stored at room temperature and taken anytime, with or without food.
The drug is easier to produce and transport, suggesting it could be a cheaper option internationally. Manufacturer Lilly plans a global launch as early as next year.
Trial Details and Results
Researchers tracked 1,400-plus patients across 10 countries. Participants averaged 16 stone (101.4kg) with a BMI of 35.6 and an average blood sugar level of 8.05%—well above healthy limits.
Patients received doses of 6mg, 12mg, or 36mg of orforglipron, or a placebo, alongside healthy diet and exercise plans.
- 36mg dose: 9.6% weight loss and 1.7% drop in HbA1c.
- 12mg dose: 7% weight loss and 1.5% HbA1c reduction.
- 6mg dose: 5.1% weight loss and 1.2% HbA1c drop.
- Placebo: 2.5% weight loss and 0.5% HbA1c drop.
Waist circumference also shrank by an average of 8.3cm with the highest dose, compared to just 2.8cm in the placebo group.
Side effects were mostly mild to moderate gastrointestinal issues like nausea, vomiting, constipation, or diarrhoea.
Experts Praise Affordable Obesity Breakthrough
“Orforglipron’s safety profile and predicted lower cost will open the door for many more people worldwide needing obesity treatment,” said Dr Deborah Horn, medical director at the University of Texas Center for Obesity Medicine.
“I hope it will become the ‘metformin’ of obesity—a low-cost, effective, and low-risk option for patients globally.”
While existing injectables like Mounjaro can deliver even bigger weight drops (up to 20%), experts welcome the pill’s arrival. Many patients fear needles or struggle with injections, so a tablet with comparable benefits is “very good news.”
UK Impact and Future Outlook
Orforglipron may gain NHS approval next year as Lilly applies for marketing authorisations for weight management and diabetes.
Currently, about 2.5 million Britons use weight loss injections like Mounjaro and Wegovy. With two thirds of UK adults overweight or obese, and weight-related illnesses costing the economy £74 billion a year, new treatments are urgently needed.
The pill promises convenience, affordability, and hope in Britain’s battle against the obesity crisis — a major step forward in slimming down the nation.
