Image Source : American Society for Metabolic
Eli Lilly & Co. has unveiled promising results from its late-stage trial of orforglipron, a once-daily oral weight-loss pill that helped patients shed an average of 12.4 percent of their body weight over 72 weeks. The announcement, made on August 7, 2025, positions orforglipron as a potential game-changer in the booming obesity treatment market, offering a needle-free alternative to injectable GLP-1 therapies like Wegovy and Zepbound.
Key Highlights from the ATTAIN-1 Trial:
- Patients on the highest 36 mg dose of orforglipron lost an average of 27.3 pounds (12.4% of body weight) over 72 weeks
- Placebo group saw only 0.9% weight loss, highlighting the drug’s efficacy
- 59.6% of high-dose participants lost at least 10% of their body weight; 39.6% lost 15% or more
- The pill also lowered cardiovascular risk markers including cholesterol, triglycerides, and blood pressure
- Most common side effects were gastrointestinal, with 33.7% reporting nausea and 24% vomiting at the highest dose
A New Frontier in Obesity Care
Unlike injectable GLP-1 therapies, orforglipron is a small-molecule pill that can be taken without food or water restrictions. This convenience factor could dramatically expand access to weight-loss treatment, especially among patients hesitant to use injections.
- The pill targets the GLP-1 hormone, which regulates appetite and metabolism
- It is designed for overweight or obese adults with weight-related health issues, excluding diabetes
Market Implications and Competitive Landscape
The weight-loss drug market is projected to reach $150 billion by the early 2030s. Lilly’s orforglipron enters a competitive space dominated by Novo Nordisk’s Wegovy and Lilly’s own injectable Zepbound.
- Analysts had hoped orforglipron would match Wegovy’s 14.9% weight loss; while slightly lower, the pill’s convenience may offset efficacy gaps
- Lilly plans to file for regulatory approval by the end of 2025, with a commercial launch expected in 2026
Safety Profile and Patient Experience
The trial included over 3,100 participants who were overweight or obese but not diabetic. While the pill showed strong efficacy, side effects led to a 10% dropout rate among high-dose users.
- No liver safety issues were reported
- Side effects were consistent with injectable GLP-1 drugs, suggesting a familiar safety profile
Beyond Weight Loss: Cardiometabolic Benefits
In addition to weight reduction, orforglipron demonstrated improvements in heart health markers, reinforcing its potential as a holistic treatment for obesity-related conditions.
- Reductions in non-HDL cholesterol, systolic blood pressure, and triglycerides were observed across all doses
- These benefits could support broader insurance coverage and regulatory approvals
Expert Commentary and Future Outlook
Kenneth Custer, President of Lilly’s Cardiometabolic Health division, emphasized the pill’s potential to transform obesity care. With manufacturing already underway, Lilly aims to avoid the supply shortages that plagued early injectable launches.
- Full trial data will be presented next month at the European Association for the Study of Diabetes conference
- Lilly is also conducting parallel trials for diabetes patients, with early results showing up to 8% weight loss and improved blood sugar control
Conclusion
Eli Lilly’s orforglipron has emerged as a strong contender in the next wave of obesity treatments. With 12.4% average weight loss, cardiovascular benefits, and the convenience of a daily pill, it could reshape how millions manage weight and related health risks. As regulatory filings approach and anticipation builds, the pill may soon become a cornerstone of modern obesity care.
Source: Al Arabiya
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