Weight Loss Pills Are Now FDA Approved
Until recently, every FDA-approved GLP-1 medication for weight loss came as an injection. That changed in 2026. Two daily pills are now approved for chronic weight management in adults:
- Wegovy pill (oral semaglutide): approved in December 2025 and launched in the U.S. in January 2026. It uses the same active ingredient as Wegovy and Ozempic injections.
- Foundayo (orforglipron): approved April 1, 2026. It is a new small-molecule GLP-1 medication from Eli Lilly, not a pill version of tirzepatide.
How Much Weight Do People Lose?
The pills and injections have not been compared head-to-head, but clinical trials give a useful picture:
| Medication | How it’s taken | Average weight loss in trials |
|---|---|---|
| Wegovy pill | Once daily | About 14% over 64 weeks |
| Foundayo | Once daily | About 12% over 72 weeks |
| Semaglutide injection | Once weekly | About 15% over 68 weeks |
| Tirzepatide injection | Once weekly | About 20% over 72 weeks |
In general, the weekly injections, especially tirzepatide, still produce the most weight loss on average.
How You Take Them
The oral semaglutide pill needs to be taken on an empty stomach with a small sip of water, then you wait before eating, drinking or taking other medications. Foundayo can be taken at any time of day with no food or water rules.
Injections are given once a week under the skin with a small needle. Many patients are surprised at how quick and easy it is after the first try.
Side Effects
Side effects are similar for pills and injections because they work on the same GLP-1 pathway. The most common are nausea, constipation, diarrhea and reduced appetite, usually during dose increases. Read more in our guide to GLP-1 side effects.
All GLP-1 medications carry a boxed warning about a possible risk of medullary thyroid cancer. They are not for people with a personal or family history of that cancer or MEN 2.
Pill or Injection: Which Is Right for You?
A pill may fit you better if you:
- Strongly prefer not to use needles
- Have a moderate amount of weight to lose
- Are comfortable taking a medication every day
An injection may fit you better if you:
- Want the largest average weight loss
- Prefer a once-a-week routine
- Have more weight to lose or weight-related conditions
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Wegovy pill as effective as the shot?
It came close in trials, around 14% versus about 15% for the injection, but results vary by person.
Is there a tirzepatide pill?
Not yet. Foundayo is a different medication. Tirzepatide is still only available as an injection.
Can I switch from a shot to a pill?
Sometimes. Lilly has studied switching to Foundayo to help maintain weight loss. Your provider can help you decide.
Find Your Best Option in Riverside
The right medication depends on your goals, health history and budget. At Allure Medical Weight Control & Wellness, we offer semaglutide and tirzepatide programs with ongoing medical support. Book your consultation to talk through your options.
This article is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Talk with your healthcare provider before starting or changing any medication.
Featured image: Magnific.