Health and Me

Tanya Dutt

Had COVID? Your Next Flu Could Reactivate Dormant Breast Cancer Cells, Researchers Warn

Breast cancer survivors have lived with a guarded sense of relief. Even after beating the disease, the possibility of recurrence remains a faint shadow but new research has raised an alarming possibility- respiratory viruses, including common ones like influenza and SARS-CoV-2, may act as a catalyst, reawakening dormant breast cancer cells that linger quietly in the lungs long after remission.

In a new study published in Nature, researchers from the University of Colorado and Utrecht University have found that viral infections can reignite cancer’s flame literally. <span>Dormant cancer cells</span> are like the embers left in an abandoned campfire, and respiratory viruses are like a strong wind that reignites the flames.

This study marks a crucial turning point in how we understand long-term remission and highlights the importance of continued vigilance among cancer survivors.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.healthandme.com/health-news/legionnaires-outbreak-all-that-you-need-to-know-about-the-disease-that-killed-1-and-left-22-sick-in-new-york-article-152385924" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">Legionnaires Outbreak: All That You Need To Know About The Disease That Killed 1 And Left 22 Sick In New York</a>

<h2>Why COVID-19 Infection Is First Red Flag?</h2>

The investigation kicked off in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. Clinicians and researchers began to notice an uptick in metastatic cancer cases, especially among individuals previously in remission. Something wasn’t adding up. Cancer recurrences were occurring at an unusual rate and too often to be dismissed as coincidence.

The researchers turned to two key data sources: the UK Biobank and a large U.S. breast cancer database with over 37,000 patient records. In the UK Biobank cohort, survivors who had contracted COVID-19 exhibited a twofold increase in cancer-related mortality. In the U.S. dataset, those with prior SARS-CoV-2 infection faced a more than 40% increase in <span>metastatic breast cancer</span>, particularly in the lungs.

The extent of this increased risk is almost unheard of in cancer epidemiology, it’s a significant effect.

To understand the mechanics, the researchers turned to mouse models—long used as reliable proxies for studying human disease behavior. When the mice with previously dormant breast cancer cells were infected with either SARS-CoV-2 or influenza A, it took only days for those latent cells to wake up. Within two weeks, there was a more than 100-fold increase in metastatic tumor burden in the lungs.

Here’s the crucial insight, the cancer cells didn’t reawaken because the virus directly interacted with them. Instead, the viruses triggered an inflammatory immune response, rich in signaling proteins called cytokines—especially interleukin-6 (IL-6). This cytokine storm appeared to create an environment ripe for dormant cancer cells to start proliferating again.

According to lead researcher Shi Chia from the University of Colorado, “Although species differences warrant caution in interpreting mouse data… collectively, these findings underscore the substantial metastatic risk COVID-19 posed to cancer survivors.”

<h2>Role of Viruses in Cancer Biology</h2>

The link between viruses and cancer isn’t new. Human papillomavirus (HPV) has long been known to cause cervical and other cancers. The Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) has been implicated in several types of lymphoma. In fact, EBV has been found in five times higher concentrations in breast cancer tissue compared to healthy tissue.

The idea that viruses could influence cancer development or recurrence has been around since the 1930s, particularly in mouse models. But this new research is among the first to show how non-oncogenic, respiratory viruses—those not traditionally associated with cancer—might still play a key role in its resurgence.

<h2>Role of Inflammation and the Immune System</h2>

One of the most compelling parts of the study is the insight into how the immune system's response, not the virus itself, may be the real driver of cancer recurrence.

After remission, it’s common for a few cancer cells known as dormant disseminated cancer cells (DCCs), to remain hidden in tissues like the lung, bone, or liver. These DCCs are typically inactive, posing no threat unless triggered.

Inflammatory responses to infections, especially those that involve cytokines like IL-6, appear to disturb this dormancy. In simple terms, inflammation acts like a wake-up call for these sleeping cells.

The researchers demonstrated that only when the viral infections resulted in elevated levels of inflammatory markers did the dormant cells awaken. This opens up new avenues for therapeutic research focused on blocking inflammation, rather than targeting cancer cells directly.

<h2>What This Means for Breast Cancer Survivors?</h2>

This is not a reason for panic but it is a call for caution. As DeGregori explains, “If you are a cancer patient who has these dormant cells, you may end up living a normal life and dying with these dormant cells, instead of dying because those dormant cells awakened. But if you get a respiratory virus like influenza or COVID, your chance of dying from those dormant cells awakening is much greater.”

Millions of breast cancer survivors around the world, many of whom are years or even decades into remission—could unknowingly carry dormant cells. For them, a common respiratory illness may no longer be just an inconvenience; it may be a risk factor for relapse.

<h2>Could Vaccination Be Protective?</h2>

Can we reduce this risk with vaccines? It’s too early to say definitively, but the idea is promising. If viral infections act as a trigger, then preventing infection might, in turn, prevent relapse.

DeGregori’s team is now exploring whether flu and COVID-19 vaccinations could lower the likelihood of dormant cell reactivation. This would have wide-ranging implications not just for cancer survivors, but for public health policy as a whole. 

The idea that a respiratory virus could reignite cancer long after remission is unsettling but not entirely surprising. As science continues to unravel the complex relationship between our immune system, viruses, and cancer, this study offers one clear message:

Remission isn’t always the end and staying healthy may mean more than avoiding recurrence it could mean avoiding infection altogether.

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breast cancer relapse

dormant cancer cells

covid 19 study

flu and cancer risk

il 6 inflammation

metastatic breast cancer

cancer survivor health

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Breast cancer survivors have lived with a guarded sense of relief. Even after beating the disease, the possibility of recurrence remains a faint shadow but new research has raised an alarming possibility- respiratory viruses, including common ones like influenza and SARS-CoV-2, may act as a catalyst, reawakening dormant breast cancer cells that linger quietly in the lungs long after remission.In a new study published in Nature, researchers from the University of Colorado and Utrecht University have found that viral infections can reignite cancer’s flame literally. Dormant cancer cells are like the embers left in an abandoned campfire, and respiratory viruses are like a strong wind that reignites the flames.This study marks a crucial turning point in how we understand long-term remission and highlights the importance of continued vigilance among cancer survivors.Also Read: Legionnaires Outbreak: All That You Need To Know About The Disease That Killed 1 And Left 22 Sick In New YorkWhy COVID-19 Infection Is First Red Flag?The investigation kicked off in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. Clinicians and researchers began to notice an uptick in metastatic cancer cases, especially among individuals previously in remission. Something wasn’t adding up. Cancer recurrences were occurring at an unusual rate and too often to be dismissed as coincidence.The researchers turned to two key data sources: the UK Biobank and a large U.S. breast cancer database with over 37,000 patient records. In the UK Biobank cohort, survivors who had contracted COVID-19 exhibited a twofold increase in cancer-related mortality. In the U.S. dataset, those with prior SARS-CoV-2 infection faced a more than 40% increase in metastatic breast cancer, particularly in the lungs.The extent of this increased risk is almost unheard of in cancer epidemiology, it’s a significant effect.What’s Happening in the Body?To understand the mechanics, the researchers turned to mouse models—long used as reliable proxies for studying human disease behavior. When the mice with previously dormant breast cancer cells were infected with either SARS-CoV-2 or influenza A, it took only days for those latent cells to wake up. Within two weeks, there was a more than 100-fold increase in metastatic tumor burden in the lungs.Here’s the crucial insight, the cancer cells didn’t reawaken because the virus directly interacted with them. Instead, the viruses triggered an inflammatory immune response, rich in signaling proteins called cytokines—especially interleukin-6 (IL-6). This cytokine storm appeared to create an environment ripe for dormant cancer cells to start proliferating again.According to lead researcher Shi Chia from the University of Colorado, “Although species differences warrant caution in interpreting mouse data… collectively, these findings underscore the substantial metastatic risk COVID-19 posed to cancer survivors.”Role of Viruses in Cancer BiologyThe link between viruses and cancer isn’t new. Human papillomavirus (HPV) has long been known to cause cervical and other cancers. The Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) has been implicated in several types of lymphoma. In fact, EBV has been found in five times higher concentrations in breast cancer tissue compared to healthy tissue.The idea that viruses could influence cancer development or recurrence has been around since the 1930s, particularly in mouse models. But this new research is among the first to show how non-oncogenic, respiratory viruses—those not traditionally associated with cancer—might still play a key role in its resurgence.Role of Inflammation and the Immune SystemOne of the most compelling parts of the study is the insight into how the immune system's response, not the virus itself, may be the real driver of cancer recurrence.After remission, it’s common for a few cancer cells known as dormant disseminated cancer cells (DCCs), to remain hidden in tissues like the lung, bone, or liver. These DCCs are typically inactive, posing no threat unless triggered.Inflammatory responses to infections, especially those that involve cytokines like IL-6, appear to disturb this dormancy. In simple terms, inflammation acts like a wake-up call for these sleeping cells.The researchers demonstrated that only when the viral infections resulted in elevated levels of inflammatory markers did the dormant cells awaken. This opens up new avenues for therapeutic research focused on blocking inflammation, rather than targeting cancer cells directly.What This Means for Breast Cancer Survivors?This is not a reason for panic but it is a call for caution. As DeGregori explains, “If you are a cancer patient who has these dormant cells, you may end up living a normal life and dying with these dormant cells, instead of dying because those dormant cells awakened. But if you get a respiratory virus like influenza or COVID, your chance of dying from those dormant cells awakening is much greater.”Millions of breast cancer survivors around the world, many of whom are years or even decades into remission—could unknowingly carry dormant cells. For them, a common respiratory illness may no longer be just an inconvenience; it may be a risk factor for relapse.Could Vaccination Be Protective?Can we reduce this risk with vaccines? It’s too early to say definitively, but the idea is promising. If viral infections act as a trigger, then preventing infection might, in turn, prevent relapse.DeGregori’s team is now exploring whether flu and COVID-19 vaccinations could lower the likelihood of dormant cell reactivation. This would have wide-ranging implications not just for cancer survivors, but for public health policy as a whole. The idea that a respiratory virus could reignite cancer long after remission is unsettling but not entirely surprising. As science continues to unravel the complex relationship between our immune system, viruses, and cancer, this study offers one clear message:Remission isn’t always the end and staying healthy may mean more than avoiding recurrence it could mean avoiding infection altogether.

had covid? your next flu could reactivate dormant breast cancer cells, researchers warn

Supriya Ramesh

US Faces Nationwide STD Epidemic As Cases Surge Past 2.3 Million

Credits: Canva

Male Birth Control Pill Passes Early Safety Trials Without Any Side Effects

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The Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (<span>CDC</span>) has just dropped a reality check: more than 2.3 million Americans are living with <span>gonorrhoea</span>, <span>chlamydia</span>, or <span>syphilis</span> and the rates are climbing so high, it’s now officially a nationwide epidemic.

A 2023 CDC report paints a troubling picture. Chlamydia takes the top spot with 1.64 million infections, gonorrhoea follows at over 601,000, and syphilis, once on the brink of eradication, is making a bold and unwelcome comeback. In Mississippi alone, congenital syphilis (passed from mother to baby during pregnancy) has skyrocketed by a staggering 1,000 per cent. While its growth slowed slightly in the past year, the overall trend remains deeply worrying.

But what is driving this surge? Experts point to a mix of factors: dwindling <span>sex education</span>, earlier <span>sexual activity</span> among teens, gaps in prenatal care, and the fact that many people do not recognise symptoms until it is too late. 

<strong>What do these bacteria look like on humans? Here is a breakdown of the three: </strong>

<strong><h3>Chlamydia</h3></strong><strong>Signs and symptoms</strong>

<ul><li>In women: Often none at all, but when they do appear, they bring abnormal <span rel="noindex">vaginal discharge</span>, pain during sex, or a burning sensation while peeing. Left untreated, it can cause pelvic inflammatory disease and infertility.</li><li>In men: <span rel="noindex">Pain or burning during urination</span>, penile discharge, and testicular pain. Some men also have no symptoms.</li></ul><strong>Risk factors</strong>

<ul><li>Being under 25 and sexually active</li><li>Multiple sexual partners</li><li>Inconsistent or no condom use</li></ul><strong>How it spreads</strong>

Through vaginal, anal, or oral sex with someone infected, even if they do not have symptoms.

<strong>Prevention and Treatment </strong>

Consistent condom use; regular screening, especially if you are under 25 or have multiple partners; and limiting the number of sexual partners. Usually, a straightforward course of antibiotics is prescribed, but both partners must be treated to prevent ping-pong reinfection.

<ul><li>In women: Painful urination, increased vaginal discharge, pelvic pain, or bleeding between periods. Sometimes, no symptoms at all.</li><li>In men: Pain when urinating, pus-like penile discharge, or swelling in one testicle.</li></ul> <strong>Risk factors</strong>

<ul><li>Age under 25 and sexually active</li><li>Multiple partners or a new partner without protection</li><li>Previous history of STDs</li></ul><strong>How it spreads</strong>

Through vaginal, anal, or oral sex with an infected person. It can also pass from mother to baby during childbirth.

Condoms, regular testing, and talking openly with partners about sexual health. Reportedly, a single antibiotic injection is currently the go-to. It is important to note that gonorrhoea has been developing resistance to many antibiotics, making prevention even more important.

<ul><li>In early stages: A single, painless sore on the genitals, anus, or mouth, and swollen lymph nodes.</li><li>In later stages: Skin rashes, fever, fatigue, and, if untreated, damage to the brain, nerves, and heart.</li><li>Congenital syphilis: Passed from mother to baby in the womb, leading to stillbirth, premature birth, or serious health issues in newborns.</li></ul>

<ul><li>Unprotected sex</li><li>Multiple partners</li><li>Men who have sex with men</li><li>Lack of prenatal care</li></ul>

Through direct contact with a syphilis sore during vaginal, anal, or oral sex, or from mother to baby during pregnancy.

Regular <span>STD</span> testing, consistent condom use, and early prenatal screening for pregnant women. Penicillin injections are simple and effective, but only if caught early.

The surge in STD cases across the US is not just about risky behaviour; it is about gaps in education, healthcare, and awareness. Many people carry these infections without knowing, passing them on silently. It is clear that one should get tested regularly, use protection, and if you are diagnosed, complete your treatment and tell your partner.

chlamydia

US Faces Nationwide STD Epidemic

gonorrhoea

syphilis

sex education

sexual activity

vaginal discharge

Pain or burning during urination

The Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has just dropped a reality check: more than 2.3 million Americans are living with gonorrhoea, chlamydia, or syphilis and the rates are climbing so high, it’s now officially a nationwide epidemic.A 2023 CDC report paints a troubling picture. Chlamydia takes the top spot with 1.64 million infections, gonorrhoea follows at over 601,000, and syphilis, once on the brink of eradication, is making a bold and unwelcome comeback. In Mississippi alone, congenital syphilis (passed from mother to baby during pregnancy) has skyrocketed by a staggering 1,000 per cent. While its growth slowed slightly in the past year, the overall trend remains deeply worrying.But what is driving this surge? Experts point to a mix of factors: dwindling sex education, earlier sexual activity among teens, gaps in prenatal care, and the fact that many people do not recognise symptoms until it is too late. What do these bacteria look like on humans? Here is a breakdown of the three: ChlamydiaSigns and symptomsIn women: Often none at all, but when they do appear, they bring abnormal vaginal discharge, pain during sex, or a burning sensation while peeing. Left untreated, it can cause pelvic inflammatory disease and infertility.In men: Pain or burning during urination, penile discharge, and testicular pain. Some men also have no symptoms.Risk factorsBeing under 25 and sexually activeMultiple sexual partnersInconsistent or no condom useHow it spreadsThrough vaginal, anal, or oral sex with someone infected, even if they do not have symptoms.Prevention and Treatment Consistent condom use; regular screening, especially if you are under 25 or have multiple partners; and limiting the number of sexual partners. Usually, a straightforward course of antibiotics is prescribed, but both partners must be treated to prevent ping-pong reinfection.GonorrhoeaSigns and symptomsIn women: Painful urination, increased vaginal discharge, pelvic pain, or bleeding between periods. Sometimes, no symptoms at all.In men: Pain when urinating, pus-like penile discharge, or swelling in one testicle. Risk factorsAge under 25 and sexually activeMultiple partners or a new partner without protectionPrevious history of STDsHow it spreadsThrough vaginal, anal, or oral sex with an infected person. It can also pass from mother to baby during childbirth.Prevention and Treatment Condoms, regular testing, and talking openly with partners about sexual health. Reportedly, a single antibiotic injection is currently the go-to. It is important to note that gonorrhoea has been developing resistance to many antibiotics, making prevention even more important.SyphilisSigns and symptomsIn early stages: A single, painless sore on the genitals, anus, or mouth, and swollen lymph nodes.In later stages: Skin rashes, fever, fatigue, and, if untreated, damage to the brain, nerves, and heart.Congenital syphilis: Passed from mother to baby in the womb, leading to stillbirth, premature birth, or serious health issues in newborns.Risk factorsUnprotected sexMultiple partnersMen who have sex with menLack of prenatal careHow it spreadsThrough direct contact with a syphilis sore during vaginal, anal, or oral sex, or from mother to baby during pregnancy.Prevention and Treatment Regular STD testing, consistent condom use, and early prenatal screening for pregnant women. Penicillin injections are simple and effective, but only if caught early.The surge in STD cases across the US is not just about risky behaviour; it is about gaps in education, healthcare, and awareness. Many people carry these infections without knowing, passing them on silently. It is clear that one should get tested regularly, use protection, and if you are diagnosed, complete your treatment and tell your partner.

us faces nationwide std epidemic as cases surge past 2.3 million

Ishita Roy

FDA Approves First Neuroimmune Modulation Device for Rheumatoid Arthritis

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The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (<span>FDA</span>) has granted approval to the <span>SetPoint</span> System, a neuroimmune modulation device designed to treat adults with moderate-to-severe rheumatoid arthritis (RA). This marks a new, device-based approach for patients who have limited options due to inadequate response or intolerance to current advanced therapies.

The SetPoint System is intended for people whose RA is not effectively controlled with, or who cannot tolerate, advanced treatments such as biological and targeted synthetic disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs). 

<h4>What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)?</h4>

RA is an autoimmune disease that causes painful joint inflammation, stiffness, and long-term joint damage if left untreated. While existing medications can help, some patients experience insufficient relief or serious side effects.

The SetPoint System is an implantable neurostimulation device that delivers a brief, daily dose of electrical stimulation to the vagus nerve. This nerve plays a key role in regulating inflammation. By activating the body’s innate anti-inflammatory and immune-restorative pathways, the therapy aims to reduce disease activity without the systemic side effects associated with some drug treatments.

Once implanted, the device is programmed to deliver therapy automatically on a set schedule. It can remain in place and function for up to 10 years, offering a long-term treatment option without the need for daily medication intake.

<h4>Evidence from the RESET-RA Study</h4>

The FDA’s approval is based on results from the RESET-RA trial, which involved 242 patients. Participants were randomly assigned to receive either the SetPoint System or a sham (inactive) device.

The trial met its main goal, showing that more patients using the SetPoint System achieved at least a 20 percent improvement in symptoms, known as the ACR20 response, at three months, compared to those in the control group. Benefits in response rates and disease activity were sustained through 12 months of follow-up.

Remarkably, by the 12-month mark, three out of four participants had not used biologic or targeted synthetic DMARDs.

The device placement procedure is minimally invasive and performed on an outpatient basis. The therapy was generally well tolerated, with a low rate of related serious side effects, reported in only 1.7 percent of patients in the trial.

Dr. Mark Richardson, principal investigator of the RESET-RA study and professor at Harvard University, said the approval reflects a promising new direction for autoimmune disease treatment.

“The approval of the SetPoint System highlights the potential of neuroimmune modulation as a novel approach for autoimmune disease, by harnessing the body's neural pathways to combat inflammation,” Dr. Richardson said in a statement. “After implantation, the SetPoint device automatically administers therapy daily, simplifying care for people living with RA.”

With this approval, the SetPoint System becomes the first FDA-approved neuroimmune modulation device for RA, adding a non-drug option to the treatment landscape. For patients struggling with medication side effects or insufficient relief, it offers a potentially life-changing alternative that works with the body’s own systems to restore immune balance.

FDA approves new arthritis device

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FDA approval

setpoint

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has granted approval to the SetPoint System, a neuroimmune modulation device designed to treat adults with moderate-to-severe rheumatoid arthritis (RA). This marks a new, device-based approach for patients who have limited options due to inadequate response or intolerance to current advanced therapies.Who Can Benefit?The SetPoint System is intended for people whose RA is not effectively controlled with, or who cannot tolerate, advanced treatments such as biological and targeted synthetic disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs). What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)?RA is an autoimmune disease that causes painful joint inflammation, stiffness, and long-term joint damage if left untreated. While existing medications can help, some patients experience insufficient relief or serious side effects.How the Device WorksThe SetPoint System is an implantable neurostimulation device that delivers a brief, daily dose of electrical stimulation to the vagus nerve. This nerve plays a key role in regulating inflammation. By activating the body’s innate anti-inflammatory and immune-restorative pathways, the therapy aims to reduce disease activity without the systemic side effects associated with some drug treatments.Once implanted, the device is programmed to deliver therapy automatically on a set schedule. It can remain in place and function for up to 10 years, offering a long-term treatment option without the need for daily medication intake.Evidence from the RESET-RA StudyThe FDA’s approval is based on results from the RESET-RA trial, which involved 242 patients. Participants were randomly assigned to receive either the SetPoint System or a sham (inactive) device.The trial met its main goal, showing that more patients using the SetPoint System achieved at least a 20 percent improvement in symptoms, known as the ACR20 response, at three months, compared to those in the control group. Benefits in response rates and disease activity were sustained through 12 months of follow-up.Remarkably, by the 12-month mark, three out of four participants had not used biologic or targeted synthetic DMARDs.Safety ProfileThe device placement procedure is minimally invasive and performed on an outpatient basis. The therapy was generally well tolerated, with a low rate of related serious side effects, reported in only 1.7 percent of patients in the trial.Expert POVDr. Mark Richardson, principal investigator of the RESET-RA study and professor at Harvard University, said the approval reflects a promising new direction for autoimmune disease treatment.“The approval of the SetPoint System highlights the potential of neuroimmune modulation as a novel approach for autoimmune disease, by harnessing the body's neural pathways to combat inflammation,” Dr. Richardson said in a statement. “After implantation, the SetPoint device automatically administers therapy daily, simplifying care for people living with RA.”With this approval, the SetPoint System becomes the first FDA-approved neuroimmune modulation device for RA, adding a non-drug option to the treatment landscape. For patients struggling with medication side effects or insufficient relief, it offers a potentially life-changing alternative that works with the body’s own systems to restore immune balance.

fda approves first neuroimmune modulation device for rheumatoid arthritis

As RFK Jr Cracks Down On 7-OH, A Washington Family Issues Warning Against Kratom As Their Son Dies After Taking The OTC Supplement

as rfk jr cracks down on 7-oh, a washington family issues warning against kratom as their son dies after taking the otc supplement

Eli Lilly’s experimental weight loss pill, orforglipron, may soon shift the landscape of obesity treatment. In a Phase 3 clinical trial that spanned more than 3,000 adults, the once-daily pill helped participants lose an average of 12.4% of their body weight over 72 weeks—with minimal lifestyle restrictions and no needles involved.

The company says these findings mark a turning point in the battle against obesity, one of the most pressing global health issues today. Here’s how this oral medication is poised to change everything we know about weight loss treatment.

According to Eli Lilly’s preliminary data, adults who took the highest dose of orforglipron lost an average of 27.3 pounds (12.4% of their body weight) over roughly a year and a half. Nearly 60% of those participants lost at least 10% of their weight, and almost 40% lost at least 15%.

These results are on par with injectable GLP-1 medications like Zepbound and Mounjaro—both also made by Eli Lilly—which have become blockbuster drugs in the obesity and diabetes market.

Dr. Céline Gounder, editor-at-large for public health at KFF Health News, put it bluntly in a CBS interview: “This is what we see with injectables. It’s impressive that a pill could match that.”

The key distinction? Orforglipron is not a peptide-based medication. That makes it easier for the body to absorb and eliminates the need for the strict dietary rules that apply to oral peptide drugs like Novo Nordisk’s Rybelsus.

Orforglipron belongs to a class of medications called GLP-1 receptor agonists. These drugs mimic a gut hormone that plays a critical role in appetite regulation and glucose metabolism. They slow down stomach emptying, curb hunger signals in the brain, and help stabilize blood sugar levels.

Until recently, the most effective GLP-1 medications had to be injected, often weekly. Eli Lilly’s innovation—compressing this powerful mechanism into an oral pill—is a major step forward.

Unlike Rybelsus, the only approved GLP-1 pill on the market (which requires fasting and water restrictions), orforglipron is designed to be taken at any time of day, with or without food or water. That alone could make a big difference for patient compliance and everyday ease of use.

<h2>Are There Significant Side Effects For This Pill?</h2>

The benefits are clear, but what about the risks? As with other GLP-1-based drugs, gastrointestinal side effects were common. The most reported issues included nausea, diarrhea, constipation, and vomiting. Between 29% and 34% of participants experienced nausea—slightly higher than the 25–29% range seen with injectable Zepbound.

More significantly, about 10% of those on the highest dose had to drop out of the study due to side effects. While not uncommon in drug trials, it’s a notable figure for clinicians to weigh when considering patient suitability.

Still, experts say the side effect profile remains consistent with what is expected from GLP-1 medications. Importantly, orforglipron was also associated with improved markers of cardiovascular health, such as lower cholesterol and blood pressure.

<h2>What Makes Orforglipron Stand Out?</h2>

One of the most promising aspects of this pill is its potential to support long-term weight maintenance. Eli Lilly is also studying orforglipron’s role in helping people who initially lose weight on injectable drugs but are looking for a more manageable, sustainable option moving forward.

In essence, this pill could serve as a bridge—or even an off-ramp—for those who can’t or don’t want to stay on injectable medications forever. The convenience factor is huge.

There’s also the question of cost. Manufacturing pills is typically cheaper than producing injectables, and while pricing hasn’t been announced yet, orforglipron could offer a more affordable option for millions of people who need access to effective obesity care.

Eli Lilly has announced plans to submit orforglipron for regulatory approval by the end of 2025, with hopes of a global launch to follow soon after. If approved by the FDA and other agencies, the drug could hit the market in 2026.

This timeline is aggressive but realistic, given the urgency of the obesity crisis. More than 40% of American adults are classified as obese, according to CDC data. The economic burden and health consequences—including increased risk of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and certain cancers—are staggering.

The public health need is urgent, and the demand for safe, convenient, and effective weight-loss treatments is at an all-time high. A pill like orforglipron, if approved, could help close that gap.

Despite the promising clinical data, not everyone is convinced just yet. Eli Lilly’s stock fell nearly 14% on the day of the announcement. Some investors expected even greater weight-loss figures or a better side effect profile.

But experts caution against reading too much into the stock market’s knee-jerk reactions. The potential of a widely accessible, non-peptide, once-daily GLP-1 pill is enormous—and it could spark a new era in weight management.

If successful, orforglipron will likely intensify the competition with Novo Nordisk, whose Wegovy and Ozempic have dominated the obesity and diabetes space for the past few years. The race is now on for the first truly scalable, cost-effective oral GLP-1 option—and Lilly may have just edged ahead.

Eli Lilly’s orforglipron isn’t just another weight-loss drug. It’s a potential paradigm shift in how we approach chronic weight management.

If it clears the final regulatory hurdles and delivers on its early promise, orforglipron could bring highly effective, user-friendly weight-loss treatment to millions of people—no needles, no meal timing, no fuss. That’s the kind of change the obesity crisis has been waiting for.

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Eli Lilly’s experimental weight loss pill, orforglipron, may soon shift the landscape of obesity treatment. In a Phase 3 clinical trial that spanned more than 3,000 adults, the once-daily pill helped participants lose an average of 12.4% of their body weight over 72 weeks—with minimal lifestyle restrictions and no needles involved.The company says these findings mark a turning point in the battle against obesity, one of the most pressing global health issues today. Here’s how this oral medication is poised to change everything we know about weight loss treatment.According to Eli Lilly’s preliminary data, adults who took the highest dose of orforglipron lost an average of 27.3 pounds (12.4% of their body weight) over roughly a year and a half. Nearly 60% of those participants lost at least 10% of their weight, and almost 40% lost at least 15%.These results are on par with injectable GLP-1 medications like Zepbound and Mounjaro—both also made by Eli Lilly—which have become blockbuster drugs in the obesity and diabetes market.Dr. Céline Gounder, editor-at-large for public health at KFF Health News, put it bluntly in a CBS interview: “This is what we see with injectables. It’s impressive that a pill could match that.”The key distinction? Orforglipron is not a peptide-based medication. That makes it easier for the body to absorb and eliminates the need for the strict dietary rules that apply to oral peptide drugs like Novo Nordisk’s Rybelsus.How GLP-1 in Pill Form Works?Orforglipron belongs to a class of medications called GLP-1 receptor agonists. These drugs mimic a gut hormone that plays a critical role in appetite regulation and glucose metabolism. They slow down stomach emptying, curb hunger signals in the brain, and help stabilize blood sugar levels.Until recently, the most effective GLP-1 medications had to be injected, often weekly. Eli Lilly’s innovation—compressing this powerful mechanism into an oral pill—is a major step forward.Unlike Rybelsus, the only approved GLP-1 pill on the market (which requires fasting and water restrictions), orforglipron is designed to be taken at any time of day, with or without food or water. That alone could make a big difference for patient compliance and everyday ease of use.Are There Significant Side Effects For This Pill?The benefits are clear, but what about the risks? As with other GLP-1-based drugs, gastrointestinal side effects were common. The most reported issues included nausea, diarrhea, constipation, and vomiting. Between 29% and 34% of participants experienced nausea—slightly higher than the 25–29% range seen with injectable Zepbound.More significantly, about 10% of those on the highest dose had to drop out of the study due to side effects. While not uncommon in drug trials, it’s a notable figure for clinicians to weigh when considering patient suitability.Still, experts say the side effect profile remains consistent with what is expected from GLP-1 medications. Importantly, orforglipron was also associated with improved markers of cardiovascular health, such as lower cholesterol and blood pressure.What Makes Orforglipron Stand Out?One of the most promising aspects of this pill is its potential to support long-term weight maintenance. Eli Lilly is also studying orforglipron’s role in helping people who initially lose weight on injectable drugs but are looking for a more manageable, sustainable option moving forward.In essence, this pill could serve as a bridge—or even an off-ramp—for those who can’t or don’t want to stay on injectable medications forever. The convenience factor is huge.There’s also the question of cost. Manufacturing pills is typically cheaper than producing injectables, and while pricing hasn’t been announced yet, orforglipron could offer a more affordable option for millions of people who need access to effective obesity care.Eli Lilly has announced plans to submit orforglipron for regulatory approval by the end of 2025, with hopes of a global launch to follow soon after. If approved by the FDA and other agencies, the drug could hit the market in 2026.This timeline is aggressive but realistic, given the urgency of the obesity crisis. More than 40% of American adults are classified as obese, according to CDC data. The economic burden and health consequences—including increased risk of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and certain cancers—are staggering.The public health need is urgent, and the demand for safe, convenient, and effective weight-loss treatments is at an all-time high. A pill like orforglipron, if approved, could help close that gap.Despite the promising clinical data, not everyone is convinced just yet. Eli Lilly’s stock fell nearly 14% on the day of the announcement. Some investors expected even greater weight-loss figures or a better side effect profile.But experts caution against reading too much into the stock market’s knee-jerk reactions. The potential of a widely accessible, non-peptide, once-daily GLP-1 pill is enormous—and it could spark a new era in weight management.If successful, orforglipron will likely intensify the competition with Novo Nordisk, whose Wegovy and Ozempic have dominated the obesity and diabetes space for the past few years. The race is now on for the first truly scalable, cost-effective oral GLP-1 option—and Lilly may have just edged ahead.Eli Lilly’s orforglipron isn’t just another weight-loss drug. It’s a potential paradigm shift in how we approach chronic weight management.If it clears the final regulatory hurdles and delivers on its early promise, orforglipron could bring highly effective, user-friendly weight-loss treatment to millions of people—no needles, no meal timing, no fuss. That’s the kind of change the obesity crisis has been waiting for.

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