In early clinical trials, participants taking Orforglipron experienced significant weight loss compared to those taking a placebo1. While results are promising, more research is needed to determine the long-term safety and effectiveness of this medication.
Weight Loss
Orforglipron
Weight Loss
Orforglipron
Learn about Orforglipron medication
Orforglipron is an investigational medication currently being studied for weight loss and type 2 diabetes. Unlike injectable GLP-1 medications, Orforglipron is taken orally and has shown encouraging early results.1 However, it is still in clinical trials and is not available in pharmacies and is not available using PlushCare.*
Not yet FDA-approved, expected in 2026
GLP-1 receptor agonist
Promising oral weight loss option
*Please note that Orforglipron® is still in clinical trials and not yet available in pharmacies or through PlushCare. PlushCare cannot enroll patients in this trial Learn more about our medical weight loss programs, including weight loss medications for qualifying patients. Prescriptions are provided at the doctor’s discretion. Learn more about our controlled substances policy and our prescription discount card.
What is Orforglipron?
Orforglipron is a GLP-1 receptor agonist developed by Eli Lilly1. It is being studied for its ability to help with weight loss and blood sugar control in adults with obesity or type 2 diabetes. What sets it apart from existing GLP-1 medications is that it is taken orally, rather than via injection.
How does Orforglipron work?
Like other GLP-1 receptor agonists, Orforglipron works by mimicking a hormone that targets areas of the brain involved in appetite regulation and blood sugar control. It slows gastric emptying, increases feelings of fullness, and enhances insulin secretion, all of which contribute to reduced calorie intake and improved glycemic control3.
Orforglipron for weight loss
Does Orforglipron help with weight loss?
Orforglipron availabililty
Orforglipron clinical trials
As of early 2024, Orforglipron is in Phase 3 clinical trials for both obesity and type 2 diabetes2. These trials are testing different dosages and treatment durations to better understand its potential impact. Participation is limited to clinical trial sites and eligibility requirements are determined by the trial organizers. PlushCare cannot assist in getting into clinical trials.
When will Orforglipron be available?
If clinical trials are successful and the FDA approves the drug, Orforglipron could become available as early as late 2025 or 20261. However, these timelines are subject to change and depend on trial results and regulatory review.
Anticipated side effects of Orforglipron
While data are still limited, side effects reported in trials so far are similar to other GLP-1 medications3:
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Vomiting
- Headache
As with all medications, side effects may vary from person to person and should be monitored closely during trials.
Alternative medications to Orforglipron
While Orforglipron is not yet available, several other GLP-1 medications are FDA-approved for weight loss and type 2 diabetes treatment.
Weight Loss
Retatrutide® medication FAQs
Can you get an Orforglipron prescription?
No. Orforglipron is not approved by the FDA and is only available to participants in clinical trials. PlushCare does not prescribe this medication.
Who is developing Orforglipron?
Orforglipron is being developed by Eli Lilly, the same pharmaceutical company behind Mounjaro®, Zepbound®, and Trulicity1.
How is Orforglipron different from other GLP-1 medications?
Orforglipron is the first oral non-peptide GLP-1 receptor agonist in development for FDA approval to treat weight loss, which could make it more convenient than injectable alternatives 1. It may also serve as a more effective oral GLP-1 than Rybelsus – the other current oral GLP-1 – for treating diabetes.
Will Orforglipron be available as a generic medication?
If approved, Orforglipron will initially be available as a brand-name drug only. Generic versions typically become available after patent protections expire.
Can Orforglipron be used for diabetes treatment?
Yes. In addition to weight loss, Orforglipron is being studied for blood sugar control in type 2 diabetes2.
What makes Orforglipron unique compared to injectable GLP-1 drugs?
Orforgliprons oral formulation offers a needle-free option, which may appeal to patients who prefer pills over injections.
How does Orforglipron compare to Mounjaro® and Ozempic®?
Clinical trials are ongoing, but early data suggest Orforglipron may offer comparable weight loss results as injectable semaglutide (Wegovy® & Ozempic®) 1. However, direct comparisons are still being studied.
Will Orforglipron be covered by insurance once approved?
It is too early to say. Coverage decisions will depend on FDA approval, pricing, and individual insurance policies.
Orforglipron prescription resources
Sources:
PlushCare is dedicated to providing you with accurate and trustworthy health information.
- Lilly’s Orforglipron Demonstrates Significant Weight Loss in Phase 2 Study. Accessed on March 21, 2025, at https://investor.lilly.com/news-releases/news-release-details/lillys-orforglipron-demonstrates-significant-weight-loss-phase-2.
- A Study of Orforglipron (LY3502970) in Participants With Obesity or Overweight With Weight-Related Comorbidities. Accessed on March 21, 2025, at https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT04881760.
- Orforglipron, an Oral Nonpeptide GLP-1 Receptor Agonist, in Adults with Obesity. Accessed on March 21, 2025, at https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa2301987.
PlushCare content is reviewed by MDs, PhDs, NPs, nutritionists, and other healthcare professionals. Learn more about our editorial standards and meet the medical team. The PlushCare site or any linked materials are not intended and should not be construed as medical advice, nor is the information a substitute for professional medical expertise or treatment.