New York, USA – Federal regulators have approved Eli Lilly’s new oral weight-loss medication, Foundeo, making it the second daily pill available in the United States for treating obesity and related conditions.
Unlike the first GLP-1 pill (a tablet version of Wegovy approved in December), Foundeo can be taken at any time of day without restrictions on food or water intake.
Eli Lilly designed the medication to be as simple as taking any other daily pill, addressing one of the biggest complaints about existing injectable GLP-1 treatments.
In clinical trials, participants with obesity who took Foundeo lost an average of 27 pounds.
The pill also showed promising results for people switching from injectable versions, with many maintaining their weight loss. Users and doctors reported fewer side effects and greater convenience compared to weekly injections. Cardiologists have highlighted its potential to help prevent heart disease by improving blood sugar, cholesterol levels, and overall metabolic health.
Pricing details show Foundeo could cost up to $349 per month for the highest doses if paid out of pocket. However, under a deal with the Trump administration, the lowest doses start at $149 per month. For patients with insurance, manufacturer coupons could reduce the cost to as little as $25 per month.
With experts estimating up to 100 million Americans could benefit from such medications, the approval is expected to expand access to effective weight-loss treatment significantly.