The UK might soon be among the first nations to introduce a revolutionary daily pill aimed at tackling obesity, touted as a significant advancement in weight management.

Eli Lilly’s chief, Patrik Jonsson, anticipates that if regulatory approval is granted, the medication orforgilpron could become accessible as early as next year.

This groundbreaking drug could simplify the weight loss journey for millions in Britain who currently rely on weekly injections like Ozempic and Mounjaro.

By 2030, the pill’s market value could reach $100 billion, as recent clinical trials revealed orforgilpron led to an average weight reduction of 12.4%.

Mr. Jonsson envisions even more ambitious solutions for combating obesity, including a one-time treatment to eliminate the need for repeated fat-loss injections.

While acknowledging that such a breakthrough is still years away, he expressed: ‘Achieving a once-and-done treatment for obesity would be a monumental contribution to mankind.’

Orforgilpron works by targeting the same GLP-1 receptors as Blockbuster weight-loss jabs Ozempic, Wegovy and Mounjaro, which suppress appetite and make users fill fuller for longer.

Lilly has not yet decided how much the drug will cost but it is easier to produce and transport that injections so is likely to be a cheaper option.

The pill can be stored at room temperature and taken at any time of day, with or without food.

It is seen as a new tool in the nation’s fight against obesity and is likely to appeal to a wider audience who are uncomfortable with injecting themselves.

The most recent study involved 3,127 adults and measured their weight loss over a 72 weeks. 

The participants were either obese or overweight with a weight-related medical problem and without diabetes. 

However, side effects on the tablet were similar to the weight-loss injections, with about one in four people experiencing diarrhoea and one in six suffering nausea.

Others have also experienced pancreatitis. 

Speaking last month, Kenneth Custer, executive vice president and president of Lilly Cardiometabolic Health said: ‘Obesity is one of the most pressing global health challenges of our time, driving global chronic disease burden and impacting more than one billion people worldwide.

‘With orforglipron, we’re working to transform obesity care by introducing a potential once-daily oral therapy that could support early intervention and long-term disease management, while offering a convenient alternative to injectable treatments. 

‘With these positive data in hand, we are now planning to submit orforglipron for regulatory review by year-end and are prepared for a global launch to address this urgent public health need.’

Last week, Eli Lilly scaled back on plans to hike the cost of Mounjaro after the company struck deals with pharmacists and private providers to keep prices lower.  

Under these arrangements, the top dose will rise to £247.50—almost £100 less than the new list price—with smaller discounts applied to lower strengths.

In a statement, Lilly said: ‘We are working with private providers on commercial arrangements to maintain affordability and expect these to be passed onto patients when the change is effective on 1 September.

‘We are already seeing providers respond in different ways to the list price change, with a range of options available for eligible patients.’

The move comes as slimmers have rushed to stockpile months worth of Mounjaro after panic grew over its soaring cost.