If you want to compare those options in more detail, read our post on how to get tirzepatide for weight loss
Alternative Approaches Being Researched: Other Companies Oral GLP-1 Programs: Several pharmaceutical and biotech companies are developing oral GLP-1 or dual agonist medications: Pfizer: Developing oral GLP-1 receptor agonist (danuglipron) Different molecule than semaglutide or tirzepatide Phase 2 trials showed promise but also significant GI side effects Still years from potential approval Novo Nordisk: Researching higher-dose oral semaglutide formulations Exploring oral versions of other GLP-1 medications in pipeline Owns SNAC technology, giving them advantage Veru Inc.: Developing oral GLP-1 using different technology Early-stage research At least 5-7 years from approval if successful Structure Therapeutics: Oral GLP-1 receptor agonist in development Early clinical trials Results not yet published Realistic Expectations: Whats Likely by 2030: Improved oral semaglutide formulations (higher doses, better absorption) Possibly oral tirzepatide if development accelerates Other oral GLP-1 medications from competing companies Better absorption technologies Whats Unlikely by 2030: Oral GLP-1 medications as effective as current injections Oral medications without strict dosing requirements Oral options significantly cheaper than injections The Physics Problem: Even with better technology, oral peptides face fundamental limitations: Large molecules dont easily cross intestinal barriers Digestive system will always break down some medication First-pass liver metabolism reduces bioavailability Perfect oral bioavailability is likely impossible for peptides this size Most Likely Outcome: Future oral tirzepatide will probably: Require higher doses than injectable (like Rybelsus does now) Have strict administration requirements Be less effective than injectable versions Cost similar to or more than current brand-name injectable options Serve niche population unable or unwilling to inject Should You Wait for Oral Tirzepatide
Why People Are Eating and Drinking Less on GLP-1s These medications mimic the GLP-1 hormone that is released after eating and drinking, as result you have they have multiple effects that aid in weight loss
One reason why women react better could be their higher oestrogen levels
Torekov SS, Harslf T, Rejnmark L, et al
The pharmacy, the drug company, PBM? Will Medicare cover obesity treatment? And most importantly: Why were these drugs so expensive in the first place? So todays article is timely, practical, and necessary
