United States: Eli Lilly shared positive results from a trial of its new pill, orforglipron, which caused the company’s stock to rise 16% after 1 p.m. ET on April 17. The once-a-day pill is part of Lilly’s growing line of treatments, including well-known drugs like Mounjaro and Zepbound, according to USA Today.
What the Pill Targets
Orforglipron is made to lower blood sugar and help with weight loss. It could change the way doctors treat type 2 diabetes and obesity—two health issues expected to affect 760 million people worldwide by 2050.
Clinical Results Show Significant Progress
Lilly reported the following:
- A1C levels dropped by 1.3% to 1.6%. Many people reached A1C levels below 6.5%, which is better than the American Diabetes Association’s target.
- People taking the highest dose lost an average of 16 pounds, and their weight was still going down by the end of the trial.
Side Effects Within Expected Range
Some side effects were seen, mostly mild to moderate stomach issues like:
- Diarrhea (up to 26%)
- Nausea (up to 18%)
- Constipation (up to 17%) and vomiting (up to 14%)
Experts said these side effects were expected and no serious liver problems were found.
Convenient Use and Flexible Dosing
People in the trial could take the pill at any time during the day, with or without food. This gives it an advantage over injectable drugs, according to USA Today.
What’s Next for Orforglipron?
Lilly said that more studies and FDA approval are still needed. This trial is just the first of seven Phase 3 studies that will test how safe and effective the pill is for people with diabetes and obesity.