Oral GLP

Oral GLP-1 drugs are likely to expand the market massively

The more disruptive development may actually be oral agents.

Many patients are willing to take a pill but reluctant to self-inject indefinitely.

Foundayo (orforglipron) – Lilly

This is currently the most important oral competitor.

Advantages:

• True oral GLP-1

• No fasting requirement

• No water restrictions

• No injection training

• Lower manufacturing complexity than injectable peptides

It received US approval for obesity in 2026 and is already being marketed in the US. Head-to-head studies showed greater weight loss and glycaemic control than oral semaglutide.  

For many patients, a once-daily pill may be preferable to weekly injections.