Trial Reveals New Diabetes Pill Rivals Ozempic in Weight Loss Effectiveness

A recent clinical trial has unveiled promising results for orforglipron, a new GLP-1 pill for type 2 diabetes. This trial included over 1,600 participants and lasted for 72 weeks across 136 sites in ten different countries. The findings suggest that orforglipron is nearly as effective as the injectable semaglutide for weight loss.

Key Findings from the Clinical Trial

Lead by obesity-medicine specialist Deborah Horn from the University of Texas, the research indicated that participants taking the highest dose of orforglipron lost, on average, 9.6% of their body weight. This figure stands in comparison to the typical 10-15% weight loss seen in users of injectable semaglutide over a similar timeframe.

Trial Design and Results

• The trial involved 1,613 adults diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, classified as overweight or obese.
• The average age of participants was 57, and their average weight was approximately 101 kilograms (223 pounds).
• Participants were divided into four groups: one received a placebo, and the others were administered doses of 6, 12, or 36 milligrams of orforglipron.
• A daily regimen was followed while each participant maintained a diet with a 500-calorie deficit.

Results showed significant weight loss across the different dosage groups. The highest dosage group lost an average of 9.6%, while the 12 mg and 6 mg groups lost an average of 7% and 5.1%, respectively. Contrarily, the placebo group experienced a 2.5% loss.

Health Improvements

Improvements were also noted in various health indicators, including blood sugar levels, inflammation markers, and blood pressure across all doses of orforglipron when compared to the placebo group. Side effects encountered were similar to those associated with injectable GLP-1 drugs, including nausea, diarrhea, and constipation.

Future Availability and Cost

Orforglipron is expected to gain FDA approval, with an anticipated availability date set for 2026. Experts predict that it could be offered at a significantly lower cost than current injectable therapies, potentially making it widely accessible.

Dr. Horn remarked on the importance of having an oral medication that can provide substantial weight loss. “This could position orforglipron as the ‘metformin’ for obesity,” she stated, suggesting it could lead to increased insurance coverage for many patients.

Conclusion

This study highlights the evolving landscape of diabetes treatments, as orforglipron emerges as a strong contender in the quest for effective weight loss solutions for individuals with type 2 diabetes.