Eli Lilly announced breakthrough results for its experimental weight-loss pill orforglipron, which demonstrated effectiveness comparable to injectable treatments in a recent clinical trial. Shares surged following the news, positioning Lilly to potentially dominate the rapidly expanding obesity medication market.
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Create account Try a demo Download mobile app Download mobile appPatients in the 40-week trial lost approximately 16 pounds (7.9% of body weight) while taking orforglipron, outperforming the 6% weight loss typically seen with Novo Nordisk's injectable Ozempic. The pill also reduced blood sugar levels by an average of 1.3%, though this fell short of Ozempic's 2.1% reduction.
"The engines of oral weight management are being developed in the United States," said Chief Scientific Officer Dan Skovronsky, noting that patients had not yet reached a weight plateau when the study concluded, suggesting potential for greater long-term weight reduction.
The announcement sent Lilly shares up as much as 13%, while competitors saw significant declines – Novo Nordisk dropped 7.8% and Hims & Hers Health fell 7.2%.
This development represents a major advancement in obesity treatment, as oral medications are considered the next frontier in a market projected to reach $130 billion by decade's end. Lilly plans to submit orforglipron for regulatory approval for weight management by late 2025, with diabetes applications following in 2026.
Eli Lilly (D1)
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