A new generation of oral weight loss medications may provide a cost-effective solution for combating rising obesity and diabetes rates, especially in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). These pills offer an alternative to expensive injectables like semaglutide (Wegovy) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro), which are difficult to access due to their high costs, refrigeration requirements, and reliance on injection devices. Experts believe that oral medications could make a significant impact in improving global health.
Growing Need for Accessible Treatments in LMICs
As obesity and diabetes rates continue to rise globally, especially in low- and middle-income countries, new treatment options are urgently needed. Traditional weight loss injections, such as Wegovy and Mounjaro, have shown effectiveness but are expensive and not always practical for widespread use. These injectables also need refrigeration and specialized devices, which makes them less accessible in regions with limited healthcare resources.
Professor Naveed Sattar, a leading expert from the University of Glasgow, emphasized the need for accessible solutions. These medicines could reduce risks for diabetes, heart disease, and obesity-related complications—conditions that are growing rapidly in LMICs due to expanding waistlines.
Orforglipron: A Promising Oral Alternative
One of the most promising oral medications to emerge is orforglipron, developed by pharmaceutical giant Eli Lilly. This new drug works similarly to semaglutide by mimicking the GLP-1 hormone, which helps control appetite and regulate blood sugar levels. Unlike injectable semaglutide, orforglipron is a small molecule drug that can be taken with food and does not require refrigeration.
A 40-week phase 3 trial revealed promising results: orforglipron helped lower blood sugar levels in people with diabetes and led to significant weight loss, comparable to that seen with semaglutide injections. Dr. Louis Aronne from Weill Cornell Medical College explained that orforglipron’s simplicity and stability make it easier and cheaper to distribute worldwide, potentially making it a more accessible option for people in need of treatment.
Advantages of Oral Medications
The key benefits of oral GLP-1 medications like orforglipron are their ease of use and lack of special storage requirements. Oral semaglutide exists but requires an empty stomach for optimal absorption and must be taken at higher doses to match the effectiveness of the injectable form. Orforglipron, with its straightforward dosing and stable formulation, could be a better option for global distribution, especially in regions where healthcare infrastructure is limited.
The simplicity of orforglipron’s dosing makes it a promising choice for individuals seeking an effective weight loss treatment that fits into their daily routine without the challenges posed by injectable options.
Expanding Access to Obesity Treatment
Despite its potential, experts urge caution regarding the use of oral medications like orforglipron, particularly in populations without diabetes. While preliminary findings are encouraging, the long-term safety and effectiveness of the drug are still being studied.
Pfizer recently halted the development of a similar GLP-1 drug due to concerns about liver safety, highlighting the need for thorough clinical trials before these drugs are widely prescribed. Dr. Aronne noted that when it comes to obesity, diet alone is often insufficient. Something changes in the brain that makes it harder for people to lose weight and stick to diet plans. That’s why medication becomes necessary.
Ethnic Disparities and the Need for Targeted Solutions
Obesity and diabetes do not affect all populations equally. Research indicates that South Asians and Black populations are more likely to develop diabetes at lower weight levels than their white counterparts. This means that even modest increases in obesity can lead to significant increases in diabetes rates in many regions.
Professor Sattar pointed out that the need for safe, effective, and affordable oral medications is particularly urgent in these communities. Safe, affordable, and effective oral medications will be essential to help control the growing global burden of obesity and diabetes.
A Global Health Priority
The growing burden of obesity and diabetes in LMICs underscores the importance of expanding access to treatment options. Experts agree that medications like orforglipron could be an essential tool in the global fight against these chronic diseases. As trials continue, there is optimism that oral GLP-1 drugs could provide a practical and scalable solution to help millions of people worldwide.
We need more options available to tackle this crisis, said Professor Sattar. The more treatments we have, the better the outcome for millions of people globally.