Daily weight loss pill to replace jabs 'could be on NHS next year'

A groundbreaking daily weight loss pill could be available on the NHS next year, after its manufacturer announced plans to submit data to regulators in the coming months. A major trial of orforglipron found overweight and obese patients taking the medication lost up to 12.4kg - or 12.4% of their body weight - after 18 months. Orforglipron's manufacturer, Lilly, said the effects and safety of the drug were comparable with similar treatments that are given as jabs.

The pill works in the same way as GLP-1 jabs like Wegovy and Ozempic, which mimic the effects of hormones that make us feel full. It could provide a cheaper, more convenient, needle-free alternative. Dr Kenneth Custer, executive vice president and president of Lilly Cardiometabolic Health, said: "Obesity is one of the most pressing global health challenges of our time, driving global chronic disease burden and impacting more than one billion people worldwide.

"With orforglipron, we're working to transform obesity care by introducing a potential once-daily oral therapy that could support early intervention and long-term disease management, while offering a convenient alternative to injectable treatments."

The trial involved 3,127 adults who did not have diabetes, and who were obese or overweight with a weight-related health condition. Participants received one of three doses of the drug or a placebo.

Those taking the highest 36mg dose typically lost 12.4kg during the 72-week study. Those taking 12mg lost an average of 9.4kg and those taking 6mg lost 8kg.

One other GLP-1 pill has been approved for use in the UK but It is harder for the body to absorb and has to be taken in the morning, around 30 minutes before consuming any food or taking other medication.

In contrast, orforglipron can be taken without any food or drink restrictions. The tablets would also be significantly cheaper to manufacture than jabs which require special injector pens.

Dr Custer added: "With these positive data in hand, we are now planning to submit orforglipron for regulatory review by year-end and are prepared for a global launch to address this urgent public health need."

Once data is submitted, the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency will decide whether the drug is safe and effective enough to be approved for UK use.

The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence would then rule on whether it is cost-effective for NHS use.