A new pill has multiple effects for diabetes and weight loss. The shares of Eli Lilly, which produces the drug, increased by 16%.
Diabetes detected by measuring blood sugar. Photo archive
Eli Lilly’s pharmaceutical company recently presented the results of a 3 -phase phase clinical study, an experimental oral drug intended to treat type 2 diabetes. Data shows not only a significant improvement in blood sugar control, but also a considerable weight loss among treated patients – a detail that has aroused interest in both the medical world.
A new oral treatment tested for type 2 diabetes
Orphorglipron is part of the same therapeutic family as Semaglutida (the active ingredient in Ozempic and Wegovy), but it comes with a major difference: it is administered orally, in the form of a daily pill, instead of weekly injections. In addition to improving glycemic control, participants in the study of the American company have also registered a significant weight loss – a combination of effects that quickly caught the attention of the medical community and investors.
In the form of a pill, the drug is easier to produce, transported and kept – without special temperature conditions. Researchers talk about the potential of this possible drug to revolutionize the treatment of obesity and associated diseases, due to its efficiency comparable to the injections and increased accessibility.
Double efficiency: glycemic control and weight loss
In the study, the researchers demonstrated:
- Glycosylated hemoglobin level (HBA1C) decreased by 1.3 – 1.6%
- Participants lost an average of 7.3 kilograms in 40 weeks
These results are important in the context in which excess weight is frequently associated with type 2 diabetes and can aggravate it.
Manufacturers’ warnings: it is not a treatment for obesity – at least not yet
Even if weight loss has been significant, treatment is currently developed exclusively for type 2. diabetes. In order to receive an official indication in the treatment of obesity, separate clinical studies will be required. However, the trajectory of this medicine is similar to other recent cases, in which the positive side effects have led to the extension of the therapeutic indications.
Quick Reaction on Stock Exchange: Eli Lilly’s shares increased by 16%
After publishing the results, Eli Lilly shares increased by about 16%, a sign that investors see a solid commercial potential in this treatment, especially given the market trends: increased demand for effective and easy to administer treatments, both in diabetes and obesity.
What follows?
The company has announced that it will request the authorization of the treatment for diabetes by the end of 2025. Depending on the subsequent evolution of the studies, the drug may be taken into account for the treatment of obesity, as well as other similar products.
When does it reach us?
If all goes well, Eli Lilly could ask for approval for Orphlipron until the end of 2025, first in the US, then in Europe. According to The Times, the United Kingdom is already preparing to introduce it to their health system, being excited about the idea of a daily pill, without refrigeration and stress -free chains.
