Oral GLP-1 Orforglipron (Foundayo) Achieves Weight Loss for Women of All Ages

Recent research has highlighted the effectiveness of orforglipron (marketed as Foundayo), an oral GLP-1 medication, in promoting weight loss among women, regardless of their menopausal status. This finding is particularly significant considering the challenges many women face in losing weight during and after menopause due to hormonal changes, primarily the decline in estrogen levels.

The analysis, led by a team including Hunter Thomas Hoffman, PharmD, from Eli Lilly, the drug’s manufacturer, examined data from two pivotal studies, ATTAIN-1 and ATTAIN-2. These studies involved women categorized based on their menopausal status: premenopausal, perimenopausal, and postmenopausal. Participants in both trials were either overweight or obese, with a body mass index (BMI) of 27 or higher classified as overweight and those with a BMI of 30 or above considered obese.

The findings were presented at the Annual Meeting of the European Association for the Study of Diabetes (EASD) held in Milan from September 28 to October 2. The research indicated that orforglipron led to significant weight loss—averaging up to 14%—for women across all age groups and menopausal stages. Additionally, those taking the medication experienced substantial reductions in waist circumference, with an average decrease of approximately 12.5 centimeters (about 5 inches).

This reduction is crucial, as increased waist size is linked to greater health risks, including heart disease and type 2 diabetes. The study also showed that the waist-to-height ratio improved for many participants taking orforglipron, suggesting a healthier distribution of body fat and a lower risk profile for cardiovascular issues.

Notably, the results indicated that 83% of women using orforglipron lost at least 5% of their body weight, compared to only 30% of those on a placebo. Losing even a small percentage of body weight can lead to meaningful health improvements, such as better blood pressure and blood sugar levels.

Orforglipron received FDA approval in April as a weight-loss medication, becoming the second oral GLP-1 drug available in the U.S. market, following Novo Nordisk’s Wegovy. Its pill form offers a convenient alternative to traditional injectable GLP-1 medications, making it easier for women to incorporate into their daily routines.

Experts emphasize the importance of personalized treatment plans in managing weight. Dr. James J. Chao, Chief Medical Officer at VedaNu Wellness, noted that though the 14% average weight loss is noteworthy, the waist circumference reduction is particularly significant for postmenopausal women, who tend to accumulate fat in the abdominal area.

However, both Dr. Chao and Dr. Luca Moretti, a medical doctor from Sapienza University of Rome, caution that while orforglipron presents a new option for weight management, individuals should consult their healthcare providers to evaluate its suitability based on their health needs and treatment preferences. This ensures that any weight-loss strategy is comprehensive, including lifestyle modifications alongside medication.