GLP-1 Weight Loss Drug Under Development

Dr. Marc Siegel, a senior medical analyst, discusses advancements in weight loss medications, concerns around nicotine patches, and shares insights from an interview with FDA Commissioner Dr. Marty Makary.

Oral weight loss pills are showing promise in clinical trials as a potential substitute for injectable GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy. Eli Lilly’s drug, Orforglipron, recently revealed positive results in terms of significant weight loss and improved heart health.

The Phase 3 ATIAN-1 trial, featured in the New England Journal of Medicine, assessed both safety and effectiveness in adults with weight-related health issues, excluding those with diabetes. Participants underwent 72 weeks of treatment across three different doses (6 mg, 12 mg, and 36 mg).

Results indicated that Orforglipron achieved its primary goal of superior weight loss compared to a placebo.

• Highest dose participants experienced an average weight loss of 27.3 pounds.
• Approximately 60% lost 10% of their body weight, while nearly 40% lost at least 15%.
• At the trial’s outset, 91% of the 1,127 prediabetic participants reached nearly normal glucose levels, compared with 42% of those on placebo.

Furthermore, Orforglipron displayed notable improvements in cardiovascular risk factors linked to obesity, such as non-HDL cholesterol and blood pressure. The most substantial dose also lowered inflammation markers significantly.

The safety profile of Orforglipron aligns with existing GLP-1 drugs; the side effects were largely mild to moderate, including nausea and diarrhea.

Sean Wharton, Director of the Wharton Medical Clinic, noted that obesity poses a complex health challenge requiring accessible and effective treatment options. He remarked on Orforglipron’s promising results, reinforcing its position as a first-line treatment in public health.

Eli Lilly anticipates filing for approval of Orforglipron as an obesity treatment by 2026, aiming for subsequent approval for type 2 diabetes treatment in the same year.

Analysts suggest that the FDA could expedite the review process for this drug, given the growing financial burden of expensive injectable weight-loss medicines.

In a conversation with a medical weight-loss specialist, Dr. Sue Decotiis expressed optimism about Orforglipron as a cost-effective option, although she criticized the efficacy of current injectable medications.

Decotiis also highlighted a concern regarding Orforglipron’s quick metabolism in the body, which might not ensure the same safety profile as peptide-based treatments. She hopes for more oral weight loss alternatives to emerge in the future.

Fox News Digital has reached out to Eli Lilly for comments on this matter.