Eli Lilly is set to release a once-daily pill to rival Ozempic this year. People are losing 15 to 20 pounds on it, but there's a catch.
Business Insider
February 26, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Eli Lilly’s new GLP-1 pill, orforglipron, has shown promising results in a head-to-head trial against Novo Nordisk’s Rybelsus. The study revealed that patients on orforglipron lost an average of 15 to 20 pounds and experienced better blood sugar control and heart health benefits compared to those on Rybelsus. This makes it a strong contender in the competitive GLP-1 market, where Novo Nordisk’s Ozempic has been a leader but struggles with creating new formulations.
The trial involved 1,698 participants across three continents and lasted one year. Patients on orforglipron reported greater weight loss and improvements in cholesterol levels, blood pressure, and triglycerides. However, the drug also had more side effects, including gastrointestinal issues like nausea and diarrhea, which led to about 10% of participants dropping out. This highlights a trade-off between efficacy and tolerability.
Eli Lilly is ramping up production to meet potential demand, with the pill potentially hitting shelves as early as mid-2026. Analysts suggest it could cost around $300 per month, making it more affordable than injectable options like Ozempic. The drug’s advantages include flexibility in dosing (anytime of day, with or without food) and no need for refrigeration, which could make global distribution easier.
For businesses, orforglipron represents a strategic move by Eli Lilly to capitalize on the growing demand for GLP-1 drugs beyond injections. With its potential to address obesity and diabetes more effectively, the pill could redefine treatment standards and shift market dynamics in favor of Lilly as it challenges Novo Nordisk’s dominance. Investors are closely watching this development, as it could signal significant returns in the pharma sector.
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Originally published on Business Insider on 2/26/2026