Madeleine Hull
The weight loss industry is a lucrative market, with many pharmaceutical companies racing to develop the next big drug. The latest craze in diet pills includes Novo Nordisk's amycretin, which is currently in Phase 1 clinical trials, and Lilly's orforglipron, which targets the GLP-1 hormone. These pills are being touted as a more accessible and effective way to manage weight and improve overall health, reducing the risk of weight-related conditions such as heart disease, liver disease, kidney disease, stroke, and diabetes. However, critics warn of potential side effects, such as gastrointestinal issues, and the challenge of finding a formulation that is well-tolerated by patients. With the market for anti-obesity drugs expected to reach $100 billion in sales by 2030, it remains to be seen whether these new diet pills will live up to the hype and transform the health of those struggling with their weight.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Name | Orforglipron |
| Manufacturer | Eli Lilly |
| Pill Form | Yes |
| Target Hormone | GLP-1 |
| Side Effects | Diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, constipation |
| Weight Loss | 10% for patients taking 1 pill/day; 13% for patients taking 2 pills/day |
| Comparison with Other Drugs | Comparable to tirzepatide, which is Lilly's injectable drug in the same category |
| Other Drugs in Testing | Amycretin by Novo Nordisk |
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What You'll Learn
Weight-loss pills vs injections
The weight loss market is currently dominated by injectable drugs such as Zepbound by Lilly and Wegovy by Novo Nordisk. However, weight loss pills are expected to expand the market significantly, reaching people who cannot access injectable drugs due to refrigeration issues or a fear of needles.
Weight loss pills and injections are two forms of medication used to help people lose weight. Weight loss pills are generally more affordable, offer a variety of medications, and do not require the use of needles. However, they need to be taken daily and often come with dietary restrictions, such as taking them on an empty stomach. Pills may also be more likely to cause stomach-related side effects, such as nausea, bloating, and abdominal pain.
On the other hand, weight loss injections tend to be more effective than pills, with fewer restrictions around the timing of the dose. They are typically only taken once a week, which may be easier for patients to stick to. However, injections obviously require the use of needles, which can be a dealbreaker for some people. Injections can also cause injection site reactions, such as swelling and pain, and tend to be significantly more expensive than weight loss pills.
Both oral tablets and injections of semaglutide have been found effective in facilitating weight loss. A 2021 research review found that oral semaglutide was equally effective or more effective for weight loss and reducing A1C in people with diabetes compared to the injectable version. However, not all semaglutides are FDA-cleared for weight loss use, and more research is needed to accurately compare oral and injectable versions.
Novo Nordisk is currently developing a weight loss pill called amycretin, which has shown promising results in early trials. Participants taking two pills a day lost up to 13% of their body weight after 12 weeks, while those taking one pill a day lost more than 10%.
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Side effects and health risks
While the new diet pill craze has the potential to transform the health care system and help people avoid heart, liver, and kidney diseases, it is not without its side effects and health risks.
Gastrointestinal issues are the most commonly reported side effects of these new weight-loss pills. During clinical trials, participants experienced nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, and constipation, as well as abdominal pain, headache, fatigue, indigestion, dizziness, bloating, and gas. These side effects are not only common with the new pills but also with injectable weight-loss drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy.
In addition to these gastrointestinal issues, there are other potential health risks associated with the new diet pill craze. For example, during clinical trials of Pfizer's oral weight-loss drug, one participant experienced liver problems. This is a concerning side effect, as liver issues can be serious and even life-threatening. It is important to note that this particular drug trial was discontinued due to these worrying side effects.
Another potential health risk is the development of retinopathy, which involves damage to the blood vessels in the eyes, potentially resulting in vision loss or blindness. This side effect was observed during clinical trials for Ozempic, where a small percentage of participants developed new or worsening retinopathy.
While the new diet pill craze has shown promising results in weight loss, it is important to carefully consider the potential side effects and health risks. These may include gastrointestinal issues, liver problems, and retinopathy. It is always advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new medication or weight-loss program to ensure a thorough understanding of the potential benefits and risks.
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Weight-loss pill market growth
The weight-loss pill market is experiencing significant growth, driven by increasing demand for accessible and effective weight management solutions. Obesity is a global health issue, affecting an estimated 750 million people worldwide, according to the WHO. This has led to a surge in interest in weight-loss treatments, with the market projected to reach $150 billion at its peak in 2035, according to Morgan Stanley Research. This represents a substantial increase from previous estimates of $100 billion by the early 2030s.
A key factor contributing to the growth of the weight-loss pill market is the development of new drugs. Pharmaceutical companies such as Pfizer, Roche, Novo Nordisk, and Eli Lilly are actively pursuing weight-loss treatments, with a particular focus on oral medications. Oral pills are generally preferred by patients due to their convenience and ease of administration compared to injections. Additionally, pills are cheaper to produce and distribute since they do not require refrigeration or special injector pens.
One notable example of a weight-loss pill that has gained attention is orforglipron, developed by Eli Lilly. Orforglipron targets the GLP-1 hormone, which is involved in weight regulation. Clinical trials have shown that the drug is effective in lowering blood sugar and promoting weight loss in diabetes patients, with minimal side effects. This success has encouraged further exploration of oral medications for weight management.
Another factor influencing the market growth is the expanding utility of weight-loss medications. Initially, drugs like semaglutide, the key ingredient in Ozempic and Wegovy, were developed for diabetes management. However, their appetite suppressant abilities led to their use in weight loss treatments. Additionally, weight management is associated with a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease, further broadening the applications of these drugs. Social media promotion of weight-loss success stories has also contributed to the growing demand for these medications.
The weight-loss pill market is expected to continue its upward trajectory, driven by increasing demand, expanding utility, and the development of new and improved medications. As more players enter the market and regulations evolve, the industry is poised to expand and meet the needs of a diverse global consumer base seeking effective weight management solutions.
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The science behind weight-loss pills
Weight-loss pills are designed to help people lose weight, often as a supplement to diet and exercise. These pills typically claim to aid weight loss by curbing appetite, interfering with the body's absorption of fat, or increasing feelings of fullness. While there are various weight-loss pills available, it's important to understand their mechanisms and potential side effects before considering their use.
One popular type of weight-loss pill works by suppressing appetite. For example, Qsymia combines phentermine, an appetite suppressant, with topiramate, a drug used to treat seizures and migraines. Topiramate also contributes to weight loss by making food less appealing, helping you feel full, and increasing calorie burning. Similarly, Orforglipron, a pill by Lilly, targets the GLP-1 hormone to help manage blood sugar and weight. It has been shown to be effective in lowering blood sugar levels and promoting weight loss, with side effects like diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and constipation.
Another approach to weight loss is through injections that target digestive hormones. Tirzepatide, for instance, imitates the GLP-1 and GIP hormones, increasing insulin production, lowering blood glucose, and helping people feel full. While tirzepatide is administered via injection, there is also an oral medication called Rybelsus (semaglutide) that is taken as a daily tablet for people with Type 2 diabetes. However, it's important to note that oral medications may come with dietary restrictions, such as taking them on an empty stomach, and may need to be taken more frequently than injections.
Some weight-loss pills interfere with the body's absorption of fat. Orlistat, for instance, is a drug that is taken with or within an hour of eating a meal containing fat. While it can help with weight loss, it may cause mild and temporary side effects, and rare cases of severe liver injury have been reported. It is important to follow a low-fat diet and take a multivitamin at least two hours before or after taking orlistat to avoid vitamin absorption issues.
While these pills and injections have shown varying degrees of success in promoting weight loss, it's important to consult a healthcare professional before starting any weight-loss program or medication. Additionally, maintaining a healthy diet and exercise regimen is crucial for overall health and can help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and improve cardiovascular health.
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Weight-loss pills and cancer
Weight loss pills are becoming increasingly popular, with many people turning to them as a convenient way to manage their weight. The market for injectable anti-obesity drugs, currently dominated by Zepbound (made by Lilly) and Wegovy (from Novo Nordisk), is expected to grow to $100 billion in sales by 2030. However, a pill would be cheaper to make, easier to store and distribute, and more accessible to people in parts of the world where injectable drugs are out of reach.
One of the most anticipated weight loss pills is amycretin, developed by Novo Nordisk. In an early-stage clinical trial, participants taking two amycretin pills a day lost up to 13% of their body weight over 12 weeks, with those taking one pill a day experiencing weight loss of more than 10%. Novo is also testing a subcutaneous form of amycretin that would be delivered by injection.
Another weight loss pill that has been approved for use in diabetes and weight loss is Mounjaro, made by Lilly. Mounjaro targets two weight-related hormones to regulate appetite and help people feel full. A pill form of semaglutide, called Rybelsus, has also been approved for people with Type 2 diabetes. Semaglutide is a synthetic medication that mimics the human hormone GLP-1, which triggers the release of insulin and sends signals to the brain when you're full.
While these weight loss pills have shown promising results in helping people attain their dream weight, there are also concerns about their side effects. Gastrointestinal issues, possible bowel obstructions, and a "hollowed, wrinkled 'Ozempic face'" have been reported by some users. In addition, there is ongoing research into the potential cancer benefits and risks associated with these drugs.
Obesity is a known driver of various cancers, and weight loss is linked to a reduced cancer risk. Several studies have found promising evidence that GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy and Ozempic may help prevent certain cancers, especially those linked to obesity. A study presented at the American Society of Clinical Oncologists meeting in June 2024 showed that GLP-1 medications reduced the risk of 13 obesity-related cancers by 39% over 10 years. Another research letter published in JAMA Oncology suggested that GLP-1 drugs might reduce the risk of colon cancer, even in people who are not overweight.
While these findings are encouraging, it's important to note that research on the cancer benefits of weight loss pills is still in its early stages. More large-scale and long-term clinical trials are needed to confirm these initial results. Additionally, lifestyle modifications, such as a healthy diet and consistent exercise, remain crucial in cancer prevention and management, alongside any medication.
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Frequently asked questions
The new diet pill craze is centred around a drug called amycretin, which is being developed by Novo Nordisk. In early trials, participants taking two amycretin pills a day lost up to 13% of their body weight over 12 weeks.
Amycretin targets the GLP-1 hormone, which triggers the release of GLP-1 into the gastrointestinal tract, making the body think it's already full.
The side effects of amycretin are similar to those of other weight loss drugs, including nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
Amycretin is currently in Phase 1 clinical trials, and the drug is considered safe. However, it has not yet been subjected to external scientific scrutiny or published in a peer-reviewed journal.
Novo Nordisk will decide whether to proceed with large-scale Phase 3 trials after data from the early-stage trial is released in 2025.
