New diabetes pill matches Ozempic for weight loss
A new pill for type 2 diabetes, orforglipron, shows weight loss results comparable to injectable Ozempic.
Why it matters
- New oral treatment option for weight loss in type 2 diabetes.
- Could shift treatment paradigms due to convenience.
By the numbers
- 1,613 participants with type 2 diabetes.
- Average weight loss of 9.6% on highest dose.
- Study duration: 72 weeks across 10 countries.
The big picture
- Orforglipron offers an effective oral alternative to injectable GLP-1 drugs.
- Improvements seen in blood sugar, heart, and inflammation markers.
What they're saying
- Excitement about potential widespread use and lower cost compared to injectables.
- Concerns about reliance on medication over lifestyle changes.
Caveats
- Study funded by pharmaceutical company Eli Lilly.
- Drug not yet FDA approved; expected availability in 2026.
What’s next
- Further studies and FDA approval process.