A new oral GLP-1 receptor agonist pill, orforglipron from Eli Lilly, shows promise for weight loss and could offer a cheaper, needle-free alternative to injectable GLP-1 drugs.

In a Lancet phase 3 trial, over 1,500 adults with obesity and type 2 diabetes across 10 countries taking orforglipron plus diet and exercise achieved around 10% body weight loss with the highest 36 mg dose over 72 weeks, compared with about 2% with placebo.

Weight loss with oral orforglipron is similar to prior non-diabetic obese populations (roughly 12%), but still lower than the roughly 22% seen with weekly injectable Mounjaro over the same period.

Experts say the pill could improve access and reduce logistical hurdles, since it removes injections and cold-chain requirements.

Injectable GLP-1 treatments can cost over $1,000 per month in the US, fueling calls for cheaper generics to boost access in lower-income countries.

The drug was generally well tolerated, with gastrointestinal side effects like nausea, vomiting, constipation, and diarrhea described as mild to moderate.

FDA approval is being sought for treating obesity and type 2 diabetes, potentially as early as next year, with hopes that all three doses are approved to optimize care.

If approved, orforglipron could be available in 2026 at a significantly lower cost than injectable GLP-1 therapies, potentially improving affordability and insurance coverage.

The trial, funded by Eli Lilly and published in The Lancet, suggests oral orforglipron could offer a more convenient and cheaper alternative to injections if approved.

Analysts expect strong competition in the obesity treatment market, with late-stage results and ongoing development of oral formulations influencing stock movements.

In the UK, more than 2.5 million people use weight-loss injections, while obesity imposes substantial health and economic costs, estimated at around £74-100 billion annually.

GLP-1 drugs, originally for diabetes, are being explored for broader benefits beyond weight loss, including heart disease and sleep apnea.