Lilly’s Experimental Pill Achieves Dual Success
Eli Lilly announced that its experimental oral GLP-1 medication, orforglipron, helped people with type 2 diabetes lose nearly 8% of their body weight and significantly lower their A1C levels over a 40-week period.
Unlike other GLP-1 medications currently available only as injections, this pill offers a more convenient alternative. Notably, orforglipron does not require any diet-related restrictions, unlike the existing oral option, Rybelsus, which must be taken on an empty stomach.
As reported by CNN Health, this breakthrough positions Lilly at the forefront of developing easier-to-use treatments for type 2 diabetes and obesity.
Orforglipron Outperforms Expectations in Phase 3 Trial
In the clinical study of over 550 participants, those who took the highest dose of orforglipron lost an average of 16 pounds (7.9%) from their body weight. The participants, all living with type 2 diabetes and insufficient glycemic control through diet and exercise alone, continued losing weight throughout the 40-week trial.
Crucially, the trial also met its primary goal: reducing A1C levels—an essential indicator of blood sugar control. Participants experienced an average drop of 1.3% to 1.6% from a starting point of 8%. Impressively, more than 65% of users brought their A1C to or below 6.5%, the diabetes diagnostic threshold.
Why Oral GLP-1s Matter
GLP-1 drugs stimulate insulin production while reducing hunger, making them effective for managing both diabetes and weight. However, injectable GLP-1s like Mounjaro, Trulicity, and Zepbound can be expensive, complex to use, and uncomfortable for patients—especially those with needle phobia.
A daily pill form, like orforglipron, could improve accessibility, lower costs, and boost patient adherence. Unlike injectables, pills don’t require refrigeration or plastic applicators, offering environmental and practical benefits.
Competing Pharma Trials and Safety Considerations
The announcement follows Pfizer’s decision to halt development of its own GLP-1 pill after a participant experienced a possible liver injury, which resolved after stopping the medication. According to CNN Health, Lilly’s Chief Scientific Officer Dr. Dan Skovronsky confirmed that no liver safety issues emerged with orforglipron, calling the absence of adverse signals “a relief.”
Side effects reported in the orforglipron trial—such as mild to moderate upset stomach—were similar to those observed with injectable GLP-1 medications. Importantly, over 90% of participants remained on the medication through the trial’s end, highlighting its tolerability.
Experts Praise Convenience and Potential for Wider Use
Medical professionals say an oral GLP-1 option could transform treatment adherence and access. Dr. Amy Rothberg, a clinical professor at the University of Michigan, emphasized the value of tablets for patients who dislike injections, noting, “It probably just simplifies things to add another pill rather than a shot.”
Dr. Priya Jaisinghani, an endocrinologist at NYU Langone Health, agreed that convenience improves long-term adherence. She added that many patients are more willing to begin and stick with an oral therapy.
Next Steps and Approval Timeline
Lilly has already begun manufacturing orforglipron in anticipation of strong demand. The company expects to apply for FDA approval for weight management by the end of 2025 and will submit its data for diabetes treatment approval in 2026.
Further results from additional trials, including those exploring orforglipron’s potential to improve high blood pressure and sleep apnea, will be shared later this year.
Conclusion
With orforglipron, Eli Lilly could reshape the landscape of diabetes and obesity care. The promising trial results, combined with ease of use and potential affordability, suggest this pill may become a game-changer for millions. As ongoing studies continue to unfold, both patients and healthcare providers are watching closely.