A new GLP-1 pill produced greater weight loss in people with type 2 diabetes.
The drug, orforglipron, acts on appetite, digestion, and blood sugar control.
In a year-long phase 3 study, patients lost up to eight percent of body weight.
Those taking oral semaglutide lost about five percent.
Researchers followed more than 1,500 participants across several countries.
Orforglipron lowered average glucose levels more strongly than the comparator.
Patients can take the tablet without fasting.
This simple dosing may improve daily use and storage.
More participants stopped the new drug because of gastrointestinal side effects.
Experts therefore stress the need for long-term safety data.
Regulators still review the treatment in major markets.
Specialists expect effective tablets to expand access and reduce costs.
Some researchers believe incretin-based therapies could become first-line diabetes treatment within a decade.
