New Weight Loss Pill Shows 8% Results in Clinical Trial

People struggling with weight and diabetes may soon have a more effective pill option that works better than what's available today.

Eli Lilly's new daily pill, orforglipron, helped participants lose 6 to 8% of their body weight over one year in a clinical trial involving more than 1,600 people across five countries. That's significantly better than the 4 to 5% weight loss seen with current oral options.

The trial included people with type 2 diabetes from over 130 research centers. Around 60% of those taking orforglipron lost at least 5% of their body weight, compared to just 40% on existing oral medication. Even more impressive, up to 44% of participants lost 10% or more of their weight.

The pill also lowered blood sugar levels more effectively than alternatives. For people with type 2 diabetes, losing just 5 to 10% of body weight can improve how their bodies process sugar and reduce the risk of serious complications.

Unlike some medications that require careful timing, orforglipron can be taken without food or water restrictions. The convenience factor matters because it could help more people stick with their treatment long term.

If approved by the FDA, US patients will be able to access the medication starting at $149 for the lowest dose, though higher doses could reach $399 without insurance coverage. The company aims to compete with the only other approved oral pill currently on the market.

The Bright Side

More effective oral treatments mean more people can manage their health without needles. While injectable weight loss medications have been available since 2014 and remain popular, not everyone is comfortable with shots or can access them easily.

"The more effective oral medicines we have to help people with type 2 diabetes lose weight and keep it off, the better," said Dr. Naveed Sattar, professor of cardiometabolic medicine at the University of Glasgow. He noted that excess weight drives type 2 diabetes and contributes to high blood pressure and other health issues.

The medication did come with a tradeoff. Around 9 to 10% of participants stopped taking it due to stomach issues, compared to 5% on the alternative. Researchers note that longer studies will help determine how the pill performs over time and whether people can tolerate it in everyday life outside clinical settings.

This breakthrough represents real progress in making weight management more accessible and effective for people who need it most.