Lilly’s New Weight Loss Drug Excels in Mid-Stage Trial Results
In an exciting development in the realm of obesity treatments, Eli Lilly announced plans to commence late-stage trials for its promising weight loss drug, eloralintide, next month. This decision comes on the heels of impressive results from a mid-stage trial, where participants experienced an average weight loss of 20.1%.
Impressive Results from Mid-Stage Trials
The mid-stage trial involved 263 adults who were classified as overweight and had at least one obesity-related comorbidity, but no type 2 diabetes. Participants received either a placebo or various doses of eloralintide. Key outcomes included:
- Patients receiving 1 mg lost approximately 9.5% of their body weight.
- The highest 9 mg dose resulted in a weight loss of 20.1%, equating to about 21.3 kg.
- The placebo group saw a minimal weight loss of only 0.2 kg over 48 weeks.
Additionally, eloralintide contributed to positive changes in waist circumference, blood pressure, lipid profiles, glycemic control, and inflammation markers.
Mechanism of Action
Eloralintide is classified as a once-weekly injectable drug that mimics the pancreatic hormone amylin. This hormone plays a crucial role in slowing digestion and suppressing appetite. Lilly’s innovative approach aims to offer an alternative to the existing GLP-1 hormone-targeting medications predominantly used in obesity treatment.
SIDE Effects and Tolerability
While the trial confirmed the drug’s efficacy, mild to moderate gastrointestinal symptoms and fatigue were reported as the most common side effects. These side effects were more pronounced at higher doses. However, patients in groups with gradually increased doses reported fewer adverse effects, indicating that eloralintide may have an improved tolerability profile.
Future Directions
Beyond the standalone treatment potential, eloralintide is being evaluated in combination with Lilly’s successful GLP-1 drug, tirzepatide (marketed as Zepbound), during mid-stage studies. This development reflects Eli Lilly’s commitment to advancing treatment options in the obesity market.
Market Context
As obseity treatment options expand, several major pharmaceutical companies are pursuing novel therapies. Competitors such as Roche and AbbVie have expressed interest in amylin-based drugs, while Zealand Pharma is testing its alternative, petrelintide, in partnership with Roche.
Looking ahead, Eli Lilly and its rival Novo Nordisk await potential negotiations with the White House aimed at reducing prices for their top-selling weight loss drugs. This move could enhance market access for their innovative treatments, ultimately benefiting those struggling with obesity.
