The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has granted approval to Foundayo, a new oral medication developed by Eli Lilly for the treatment of obesity. This approval provides patients with an alternative to injectable weight loss drugs, potentially expanding access to care.

A New Option for Weight Management

Foundayo’s approval was expedited due to its potential impact on obesity treatment. It represents a significant advancement, offering a convenient option for individuals who prefer taking a pill over receiving injections. The availability of Foundayo adds to the growing number of weight management solutions available to patients.

How Foundayo Works

Unlike Eli Lilly’s injectable medication, Zepbound, Foundayo utilizes a novel ingredient called orforglipron. This small molecule chemical functions similarly to peptides but isn’t a peptide itself, allowing for flexible administration – it can be taken at any time of day without food or water restrictions. This contrasts with Wegovy, a competitor pill that requires administration on an empty stomach with a 30-minute fasting period.

Clinical Trial Results

Clinical trial data showed that patients taking the highest dose of Foundayo for 72 weeks experienced an average weight loss of 27.3 pounds (12.4% of body weight). In comparison, those receiving a placebo lost an average of 2.2 pounds (0.9%). Common side effects reported during trials included nausea, constipation, and diarrhea.

Cost and Accessibility Concerns

While Foundayo offers a promising new treatment option, challenges related to cost and insurance coverage remain. The retail price of Foundayo is $149 per month. Eli Lilly offers a savings card that could lower copays to as little as $25 a month with commercial insurance, and $50 a month for Medicare recipients starting in July. Novo Nordisk, the maker of Wegovy, has noted the lack of head-to-head trials comparing Foundayo and Wegovy.

Despite anticipating patient preference for a pill over injections, some experts believe cost is a larger barrier to access. Eli Lilly has assured a stable supply, with the medication expected to be available in pharmacies within weeks of the approval.