TOS statement on oral GLP-1s

Advances in evidence-based obesity medications and treatment options are critical for the millions of individuals living with the chronic disease. The Obesity Society is encouraged by the development of new options that are effective, safe, and convenient for consumers.

Last week, results released for the ACHIEVE-1 Phase 3 clinical trial suggest that a new medication, Orforglipron, an oral small molecule glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist, taken once daily led to an average weight loss of 7.9% in individuals with diabetes and impaired glycemic control. Researchers noted that participant weight loss had not yet plateaued, hinting that additional weight reduction from the drug could be realized.

"What is exciting about the study and results for Orforglipron is that the safety and tolerability of an oral GLP-1 medication was consistent with injectable therapies. Individuals with diabetes improved their hemoglobin A1C by an average of 1.3% to 1.6%, with more than 65% achieving a level equal or below 6.5% from a baseline of 8%," stated Marc-Andre Cornier, MD FTOS, president of The Obesity Society (TOS). "This oral medication may be easy for individuals to take consistently and could prove to be more accessible than weekly injections."

The positive news about the results of Orforglipron came on the tail of the announcement that a different Phase 3 clinical trial for another oral daily drug, danuglipron, was being halted. An asymptomatic participant in one of the dose-optimization studies experienced a potential drug-induced liver injury that resolved with cessation of the medication. After careful review of the case and other data, the company made the decision to stop the development of the drug.

"Clinical trials allow researchers to measure the safety and health outcomes associated with obesity medications. In this case, the study brought to light safety concerns and the trial was halted," noted Cornier. "Obesity research is an important factor in determining best approaches to care and treatment, we need to ensure that as a nation we invest in and support studies that advance medicine."

Provided by The Obesity Society