FDA approves once-daily GLP-1 weight loss pill with ‘greater flexibility’

Following Wegovy’s recent launch of the first oral glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) medication, another weight-loss pill has been approved by the FDA.

Foundayo (orforglipron) is a once-daily pill developed by Lilly for lasting weight loss. It is reportedly the only type that can be taken at any time of day without food or water restrictions.

Clinical trial participants who took Foundayo lost an average of 27.3 pounds (12.4%) on the highest dose, according to a press release from Lilly.

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This marks Lilly’s second FDA-approved obesity medicine, joining Zepbound (tirzepatide). The drug is intended for adults who are overweight or obese and also have weight-related medical problems.

The treatment achieves best results for weight loss and maintenance when partnered with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity, according to the manufacturer.

The drug will be ready to ship to patients on April 6, Lilly stated.

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Foundayo is also being studied as a potential treatment for type 2 diabetes, obstructive sleep apnea, osteoarthritis, knee pain, hypertension, peripheral artery disease and stress urinary incontinence.

Deborah Horn, director of the Center for Obesity Medicine at McGovern Medical School at UTHealth Houston, emphasized the importance of new treatment options.

“Fewer than 1 in 10 people who could benefit from a GLP-1 are taking one.”

“People living with obesity need treatment options that meet them where they are – and for many, a once-daily pill that can be taken with no food or water restrictions can offer them greater flexibility in how they approach their treatment,” she said in the same press release.

David A. Ricks, chair and CEO of Eli Lilly and Company, also commented on the importance of new treatment options.

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“Today, fewer than one in 10 people who could benefit from a GLP-1 are taking one, held back by access, stigma, perceived complexity, or the belief that their condition isn’t serious enough for treatment,” he said in the release. “We believe Foundayo can help level the playing field for those living with obesity or who are overweight and living with weight-related complications.”

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Lilly does not recommend using Foundayo in combination with other GLP-1 drugs. It is also unclear whether the medication is safe for children.

The drugmaker warned that the treatment could cause tumors in the thyroid, including thyroid cancer, warning patients to monitor symptoms such as a lump or swelling in the neck, hoarseness, trouble swallowing or shortness of breath.

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Similar to other GLP-1s, the most common side effects of Foundayo are gastrointestinal in nature, including nausea, constipation, diarrhea, vomiting, indigestion, stomach pain, headache, swollen belly, fatigue, belching, heartburn, gas and hair loss.

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Lilly recommends speaking with a healthcare provider before taking Foundayo to share other medications and family health history that may increase the risk of complications.

Fox News Digital reached out to Lilly for comment.