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Medical experts believe that oral GLP-1 weight loss medications could play a major role in fighting obesity and diabetes in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). These new pills could be a more accessible option compared to expensive injectable drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro, which are commonly used in wealthier nations but are not feasible in many low-income settings due to high costs and logistical challenges. Experts say these oral alternatives could help reduce the rising burden of obesity-related diseases in LMICs.

The Promise of Oral GLP-1 Medications in LMICs

Currently, injectable medications like Wegovy and Mounjaro have shown significant success in treating obesity and diabetes in higher-income countries. However, their high price tags, refrigeration needs, and complex delivery methods limit their use in lower-income regions. This makes it difficult for millions in LMICs to access these life-saving treatments.

Prof. Naveed Sattar from the University of Glasgow emphasized the potential impact of oral medications: “These medicines could reduce the growing burden of diabetes, heart disease, and other obesity-related conditions, which are increasing rapidly in many LMICs.”

Advantages of Oral GLP-1 Medications

A new class of oral drugs, including orforglipron, is showing promising results in the fight against obesity and diabetes. Orforglipron is a once-daily pill that mimics the GLP-1 hormone, helping to control blood sugar levels and reduce appetite. Unlike injectable semaglutide, orforglipron can be taken with food and does not require fasting, making it easier to use in everyday life.

Dr. Louis Aronne from Weill Cornell Medical College shared his thoughts on the practicality of these drugs: “Oral medications like orforglipron do not need refrigeration or sterile packaging, making them suitable for use in resource-limited settings where cold storage is unavailable.”

Early studies show that orforglipron works similarly to injectable medications like semaglutide in reducing both blood sugar levels and body weight. However, orforglipron may be easier and more affordable to distribute, potentially making it a game-changer in countries where medical resources are scarce.

Global Health Impact and the Potential for Wider Access

Experts are optimistic that oral GLP-1 medications can improve access to essential treatment, helping to prevent diabetes and reduce health disparities. Research is ongoing to assess the safety and long-term effectiveness of these drugs, particularly in populations that have not yet been studied extensively.

Dr. Aronne noted that while diet changes alone may not be enough for individuals with obesity, medications are necessary for long-term weight management. “Obesity alters brain function, making it difficult for people to maintain weight loss without medication,” he said.

Furthermore, certain populations, such as South Asians and Black individuals, are more prone to developing type 2 diabetes at lower body weights compared to white individuals. This makes the growing obesity rates in LMICs a serious concern for public health.

Prof. Sattar added that small increases in obesity in these populations could lead to significant health impacts. “The more safe and effective oral weight loss treatments we have, the better we can protect global health,” he said.

Ongoing Trials and Safety Considerations

Although orforglipron shows promise, there are still questions about its safety, particularly after concerns were raised about liver injuries linked to a rival GLP-1 drug by Pfizer. Researchers are continuing to evaluate the drug’s long-term effects, especially in non-diabetic populations.

It is also unclear whether orforglipron has the same cardiovascular benefits as semaglutide, which has been shown to reduce the risk of heart-related events. Nevertheless, early signs suggest that the drug could provide a much-needed alternative to current treatments.

The Future of Obesity and Diabetes Treatment

As the world faces rising rates of obesity and diabetes, oral GLP-1 drugs could offer an affordable and scalable solution for millions of people in LMICs. The hope is that these medications will provide a pathway to better health, particularly in regions where the burden of these diseases is growing.

By making these treatments more accessible, experts believe we can make significant strides in reducing the global health disparities caused by obesity and diabetes.