FDA Approves New Weight-Loss Pill That Can Be Taken Any Time of Day

The FDA approved orforglipron (brand name Foundayo) for obesity and related conditions; it is the second daily oral obesity medication.

Orforglipron is a GLP-1 that mimics the appetite-regulating hormone and can be taken any time of day with no food or water restrictions; shipping is expected to begin Monday.

In trials of more than 3,000 adults, the highest 36 mg dose produced an average 11.2% body-weight loss (~25 pounds) versus 2.1% for placebo over 16+ months, and improved waist circumference, blood pressure, triglycerides and cholesterol.

Most discontinuations were due to gastrointestinal side effects, with a discontinuation rate of about 5–10%.

With a Lilly discount card, insured monthly cost starts at $25; cash prices range $149–$349 per month by dose; orforglipron showed less weight loss than injectable Zepbound (21%) and Wegovy (15%), Wegovy has generated over 600,000 U.S. prescriptions since December, and the FDA used a 50-day expedited review program.