New GLP-1 pill helps patients lose up to 8% of body weight, trial shows

Orforglipron led to greater weight loss than semaglutide tablets and could offer more effective oral alternative to jabs

A new daily pill could be a more effective GLP-1 tablet for weight loss, according to a clinical trial that may pave the way for an improved non-injection alternative to Wegovy and Mounjaro.

The drug, called orforglipron and manufactured by Eli Lilly, is prescribed for type 2 diabetes and targets the same GLP-1 receptors as oral semaglutide. Like semaglutide, it lowers blood sugar levels, slows digestion and suppresses appetite. Unlike semaglutide tablets, it does not need to be taken on an empty stomach.

Orforglipron has not yet been approved by regulators in the UK, US or Europe, though the US Food and Drug Administration is reviewing it. At present, semaglutide is the only GLP-1 medication for type 2 diabetes available in pill form in the US.