Orforglipron Weight Loss Pill Shows Promise in Landmark Trial, Paving Way for NHS Obesity Care Breakthrough
A new daily weight loss pill, orforglipron, has delivered encouraging results in a landmark trial, signalling a potential turning point for obesity treatment in the UK. Developed by Eli Lilly, the oral drug works on the same GLP-1 receptors as injectable treatments like Wegovy and Mounjaro, but offers the convenience of a tablet taken once a day.
Involving 3,127 adults, the 72-week trial found that participants taking orforglipron lost an average of 12.3kg—nearly two stone—with three in five on the highest dose shedding at least 10% of their body weight. While weight loss was slightly lower than with leading injectables (12.4% with orforglipron versus 20.2% with Mounjaro and 13.7% with Wegovy), the pill’s ease of use and potentially lower manufacturing costs could make it a more accessible option for many.
Side effects were similar to other GLP-1-based therapies, mainly involving mild to moderate gastrointestinal issues. However, experts believe the oral format could improve patient adherence and broaden access to effective weight-loss medication.
Beyond weight reduction, participants saw improvements in cholesterol, blood pressure, and cardiovascular risk factors. Analysts note that if approved, the pill could deliver measurable savings for the NHS by reducing obesity-related health pressures while requiring fewer resources to produce.
Eli Lilly plans to submit orforglipron for regulatory approval by year-end, with strong demand expected. The findings, presented at the European Association for the Study of Diabetes annual meeting, point to a possible shift in the obesity treatment landscape—offering millions in the UK a cost-effective, convenient, and impactful solution.
