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The FDA has approved a new weight-loss pill called Foundayo (orforglipron), adding to the growing list of obesity treatments available in the U.S. Developed by pharmaceutical company Lilly, Foundayo is a once-daily oral medication that stands out because it can be taken at any time of day, without restrictions on food or water intake.
In clinical trials, participants on the highest dose of Foundayo lost an average of 27.3 pounds, or 12.4% of their body weight, according to Lilly’s press release. This marks Lilly’s second FDA-approved obesity drug, joining Zepbound (tirzepatide), and is designed for adults who are overweight or obese and have weight-related health issues.
The company emphasizes that optimal results are achieved when Foundayo is combined with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity. The medication will be available to patients starting April 6.
Beyond weight loss, Lilly is investigating Foundayo’s potential to treat other conditions, including type 2 diabetes, obstructive sleep apnea, osteoarthritis, knee pain, hypertension, peripheral artery disease, and stress urinary incontinence.
Experts highlight the importance of expanding treatment options for obesity. Deborah Horn, director of the Center for Obesity Medicine at McGovern Medical School, noted that a convenient pill without food or water restrictions could provide greater flexibility for patients managing their condition.
David A. Ricks, chair and CEO of Lilly, acknowledged that fewer than 10% of people who might benefit from GLP-1 medications currently use them, citing barriers such as access, stigma, and misconceptions about obesity. He expressed hope that Foundayo would help broaden access to effective treatment.
Lilly advises against using Foundayo in combination with other GLP-1 drugs and has not established its safety for children. The company also issued a warning about potential risks, including thyroid tumors and cancer, urging patients to monitor symptoms such as neck lumps, hoarseness, difficulty swallowing, or shortness of breath.
Common side effects, similar to other GLP-1 treatments, are mostly gastrointestinal and may include nausea, constipation, diarrhea, vomiting, stomach pain, headache, fatigue, and hair loss.
Patients are encouraged to consult their healthcare providers before starting Foundayo to discuss their medical history and any other medications to minimize risks.
Foundayo’s approval represents another step forward in the fight against obesity, offering a new option for those seeking effective and convenient weight management solutions.