The New Weight Loss Pill Everyone’s Talking About: What to Know About Oral GLP-1s
- HealthyMe
- Oct 22
- 3 min read
Over the last year, medications like Wegovy and Mounjaro have changed how we approach obesity treatment.
But now, there’s a new option on the horizon that’s got everyone talking — oral GLP-1s, sometimes described as “the weight loss pill.”
So what exactly are they, and could they really replace injections?
What Are Oral GLP-1s?
GLP-1s are medications that mimic a natural hormone in the body (glucagon-like peptide-1) which helps to control appetite, balance blood sugar levels, and promote long-term weight loss.
Until recently, GLP-1s were only available as injections like:
Wegovy (semaglutide)
Mounjaro (tirzepatide)
Now, researchers are developing oral forms that could make treatment simpler and more convenient. These include:
Orforglipron – a once-daily tablet currently in clinical trials
Rybelsus – an oral version of semaglutide, approved for diabetes and under study for obesity
Why Everyone’s Excited About Oral GLP-1s
For many people, the biggest barrier to treatment is the injection itself. Oral GLP-1s could make weight loss medication:
💊 Easier to start – no needles, no storage issues
🧳 More flexible – perfect for travel or busy lifestyles
🌍 More accessible – appealing to people hesitant about injections
In recent studies, Orforglipron led to up to 15% body weight reduction over 72 weeks — similar to the results seen with injectable GLP-1s like Wegovy.
Are Oral GLP-1s as Effective as Injections?
Early research looks promising, but oral medications work slightly differently. Because the digestive system breaks down the drug, absorption can vary, meaning not everyone will respond the same way. However, newer formulations are improving how well these pills work, and experts are optimistic that oral GLP-1s could soon offer comparable results to injections.
In short: they may not replace injectables just yet — but they’re coming close.
When Will Oral GLP-1s Be Available in the UK?
Orforglipron and similar medications are currently in Phase 3 clinical trials. If all goes well, experts expect the first oral GLP-1 for obesity to reach the UK market in 2026–2027. Until then, Wegovy and Mounjaro remain the most proven, effective options available through private medical weight loss services like HealthyMe.
Injections vs Pills: Which Is Better?
Why Support Still Matters — Pill or Injection
Whether you’re taking a pill or an injection, one thing remains the same: the medication works best when combined with expert support.
At HealthyMe, we can offer:
✅ Dietitian-led nutrition guidance
✅ Psychological support to manage habits and mindset
✅ Ongoing follow-up for lasting results
Medication can start your weight loss journey — but support helps you stay there.
Final Thoughts
Oral GLP-1s could soon make weight loss treatment more accessible and less intimidating. They’re an exciting step forward for people who want results without injections.
Until then, Wegovy and Mounjaro remain the gold standard for safe, effective medical weight loss — and both are available through HealthyMe’s expert-led service.
Ready to Begin Your Weight Loss Journey?
Start today with a trusted team that offers medical expertise, dietitian guidance, and mindset support every step of the way.
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FAQs About Oral GLP-1s
1️⃣ Is there a pill form of Wegovy?
Not yet — but clinical trials are underway for an oral version of semaglutide similar to Wegovy. Rybelsus, a tablet used for diabetes, is the closest current option.
2️⃣ What is Orforglipron?
Orforglipron is a new non-peptide oral GLP-1 medication being developed by Eli Lilly — the same company behind Mounjaro. It’s designed for weight loss and early studies show up to 15% weight reduction.
3️⃣ When will the oral GLP-1 pill be available in the UK?
If trials continue successfully, Orforglipron could launch in the UK as early as 2026–2027.
4️⃣ Will oral GLP-1s be as effective as injections?
Early data suggests they could be nearly as effective, though absorption rates vary. Some users may still respond better to injectables — your healthcare team can help decide what’s best for you.
5️⃣ Can I get oral GLP-1s privately in the UK right now?
Currently, only injectable GLP-1s (Wegovy, Mounjaro) are approved for weight loss. At HealthyMe, these are available privately through our clinically supervised weight loss programmes.
