The two GLP-1 weight loss pills
| Wegovy pill | Foundayo | |
|---|---|---|
| Medicine | Oral semaglutide | Orforglipron |
| FDA approval | December 2025 | April 2026 |
| How to take it | Once a day on an empty stomach with a small sip of water. Wait 30 minutes before eating. | Once a day, any time, with or without food |
| Average weight loss in trials | About 14 percent (OASIS 4, 64 weeks) | Up to about 12 percent at the highest dose (ATTAIN-1, 72 weeks) |
| Other approval | Lowers heart attack and stroke risk in people with heart disease | Weight management |
Pills vs weekly injections
On average, weekly Zepbound and Wegovy injections have led to more weight loss than the pills. But the pills are a strong choice if you dislike needles, travel often or want a medicine that does not need to stay cold. Side effects are similar: mostly nausea, diarrhea, constipation and vomiting early on.
Older weight loss pills
Before GLP-1 pills, doctors used medicines such as phentermine, phentermine with topiramate (Qsymia), naltrexone with bupropion (Contrave) and orlistat. These still have a place for some patients. Dr. Siddiqui reviews all options, including combinations, based on your health.
Watch out for supplements
Over-the-counter weight loss supplements are not FDA-approved medicines and some contain hidden drugs. Talk with your doctor before trying them.