OKLAHOMA CITY –
New oral medications could soon change how patients approach medical weight loss, offering an alternative to injectable treatments that have become increasingly common in recent years.
In this week’s Medical Minute, Dr. Lacey Anderson said the first oral GLP-1 medication for weight loss, a pill version of Wegovy, received approval from the Food and Drug Administration in December 2025. Anderson said clinical trial data shows the pill is as effective as the injectable version.
Another oral medication, called orforglipron, is also drawing attention. Anderson said early clinical trials showed even greater weight loss results, with some non-diabetic patients losing more than 10% of their body weight. The drug’s manufacturer, Eli Lilly, is expected to seek FDA approval soon, which could make the medication available within the next several months.
Why oral medications matter
Anderson said oral options may appeal to patients who are hesitant about injections or prefer taking a daily pill rather than a weekly shot. She added that pills are also expected to be more affordable and more widely covered by insurance, particularly because some are approved for additional benefits such as heart health.
Side effects and long-term use
Despite the convenience, Anderson cautioned that oral GLP-1 medications can cause side effects similar to injectable versions. These may include gastrointestinal symptoms such as reflux, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation.
She also said weight regain is possible after stopping the medication, meaning long-term or even lifelong use may be needed to maintain results. Anderson encouraged patients to check with their insurance providers to confirm coverage as new options become available in 2026.