They are poised to have a huge impact on the treatment of obesity through their new clinical trial of a once-a-day oral medication, orforglipron. Kenneth Custer, the executive vice president and president of Lilly Cardiometabolic Health, recently spoke on the development of an innovative new trial. This trial took an innovative approach by comparing the effectiveness of a new oral therapy to injectable therapies historically used in practice.
The trial had a very interesting and diverse group of participants. Data shows that 10% of those who enrolled decided to drop out of taking the oral pill while participating in the study. At least Eli Lilly has been upfront about the trial participants. They focused on the promise as well as the peril of the new drug.
Kenneth Custer emphasized the significance of orforglipron in advancing obesity care. He stated,
“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.”
This announcement further highlights the company’s belief in seeking out novel solutions for people living with obesity. With an oral option, Eli Lilly hopes to increase patient adherence, leading to a more effective overall treatment.
Located prominently on the company’s headquarters campus in Indianapolis, the Eli Lilly sign symbolizes the corporation’s dedication to addressing cardiometabolic health. Scott Olson—Getty Images A photo of this sign taken by Scott Olson on March 17, 2024. It reminds us of the great work that is still being done across the field.
Eli Lilly is clearly committed to taking on the hurdles to treating obesity head on. Insights gleaned from this non-injection, oral therapy trial may help foster acceptance of these non-injection alternatives. The company’s focus on cardiometabolic health reflects a growing recognition of the importance of innovative therapies in managing chronic conditions effectively.
