A new once-daily weight-loss pill called orforglipron demonstrated better weight loss and blood sugar improvements than the leading oral semaglutide (Ozempic) in a 52-week phase 3 clinical trial involving 1,698 adults with type 2 diabetes.The drug, developed by Eli Lilly, reduced HbA1c levels by 1.71–1.91% compared to 1.47% for oral semaglutide, with participants losing an average of 6.1kg–8.2kg versus 5.3kg.

Orforglipron, a small-molecule drug, is cheaper to manufacture, doesn’t require refrigeration, and avoids the need for injection, making it more convenient for patients.However, it caused more gastrointestinal side effects (59% vs.37–45% for semaglutide), leading to higher discontinuation rates (10% vs.4–5%).While the trial showed orforglipron’s superiority in blood sugar control and weight loss, its tolerability issues may impact long-term adherence.

The drug’s potential to expand access in low- and middle-income countries due to logistical advantages is significant, though its performance against injectable GLP-1 drugs remains to be tested.The study highlights orforglipron as a credible challenger to semaglutide in the growing oral weight-loss market.