A potential shift is on the horizon for individuals managing type 2 diabetes and seeking weight loss solutions, thanks to promising results from Eli Lilly’s Orforglipron clinical trials.
Lilly recently unveiled the success of its phase 3 ACHIEVE-1 trial, marking a significant advancement in diabetes treatment. Orforglipron represents a novel approach: it’s the first small-molecule GLP-1 receptor agonist delivered as an oral pill, rather than through injection.
The trial assessed Orforglipron’s effectiveness against a placebo group of adults struggling with type 2 diabetes despite adhering to diet and exercise regimens. The outcomes were compelling:
- A1C Reduction: Participants experienced an average reduction in A1C levels ranging from 1.3% to 1.6%, demonstrating substantial improvement in blood sugar control.
- Target Achievement: Over 65% of those receiving the highest dose achieved an A1C level of 6.5% or less—a goal recommended by the American Diabetes Association for optimal diabetes management.
- Weight Loss: Average weight loss reached approximately 16 pounds (7.9%) among participants on the highest dosage, and researchers noted that these individuals hadn’t yet reached a plateau, suggesting further potential for continued weight reduction.
Importantly, the trial indicated that Orforglipron’s safety profile mirrored that of existing injectable GLP-1 medications like Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro and Zepbound.
Eli Lilly is optimistic about securing U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval and confidently projects a global launch without facing supply limitations. The company envisions Orforglipron playing a crucial role in tackling the rising prevalence of type 2 diabetes, which is anticipated to affect an estimated 760 million adults worldwide by 2050.
“We are pleased to see that our latest incretin medicine meets our expectations for safety and tolerability, glucose control and weight loss,” stated David A. Ricks, Eli Lilly chair and CEO. “As a convenient once-daily pill, Orforglipron may provide a new option and, if approved, could be readily manufactured and launched at scale for use by people around the world.”
Lilly plans to submit Orforglipron for weight management approval by late 2025 and is targeting submission for type 2 diabetes treatment in 2026.
