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image/svg+xml Jakob Voss, based on art designer at PLoS, modified by Wikipedia users Nina and Beao Closed Access logo, derived from PLoS Open Access logo. This version with transparent background. http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Closed_Access_logo_transparent.svg Jakob Voss, based on art designer at PLoS, modified by Wikipedia users Nina and Beao Diabetes Obesity and...arrow_drop_down
image/svg+xml Jakob Voss, based on art designer at PLoS, modified by Wikipedia users Nina and Beao Closed Access logo, derived from PLoS Open Access logo. This version with transparent background. http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Closed_Access_logo_transparent.svg Jakob Voss, based on art designer at PLoS, modified by Wikipedia users Nina and Beao
Diabetes Obesity and Metabolism
Article . 2025 . Peer-reviewed
License: Wiley Online Library User Agreement
Data sources: Crossref
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Novel oral agents in anti‐obesity pharmacotherapy: A narrative review

Authors: Assaf Buch; Roy Eldor; Roy Brown; Joel Zonszein;

Novel oral agents in anti‐obesity pharmacotherapy: A narrative review

Abstract

Abstract Obesity remains a critical global health issue with profound medical and economic implications. While injectable medications such as semaglutide (Wegovy®) and tirzepatide (Zepbound®) have demonstrated significant efficacy, the development of novel oral anti‐obesity agents presents additional therapeutic potential. This narrative review examines recent advances in oral pharmacotherapy for obesity, focusing on mechanisms of action, clinical effectiveness, anticipated benefits and side effects. A systematic search of PubMed, Cochrane Library, Google Scholar and ClinicalTrials.gov identified relevant studies published between January 2023 and June 2025, including randomized controlled trials and clinical investigations of emerging oral agents. We have selected emerging oral compounds, currently undergoing clinical evaluation but not yet approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). These include oral GLP‐1 RAs, peptides and small molecules, and non‐incretin‐based therapies targeting the melanocortin‐4 receptor and the endocannabinoid system, among others. Several agents have demonstrated promising efficacy, achieving weight loss of ≥10% in clinical trials while also exhibiting favourable safety profiles. Emerging oral therapies could complement or serve as alternatives to approved injectable treatments, particularly for long‐term weight management. They may enhance patient access, adherence and satisfaction, thereby broadening the scope of pharmacological interventions in obesity care. Ongoing research is crucial to confirm the long‐term safety, effectiveness and clinical role of these agents within comprehensive obesity management strategies. By contextualizing these developments, this review underscores the growing promise of oral pharmacotherapy in addressing the global obesity epidemic.

Keywords

Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonists, Glucagon-Like Peptide 1, Weight Loss, Humans, Administration, Oral, Semaglutide, Anti-Obesity Agents, Obesity, Tirzepatide

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selected citations
These citations are derived from selected sources.
This is an alternative to the "Influence" indicator, which also reflects the overall/total impact of an article in the research community at large, based on the underlying citation network (diachronically).
BIP!Citations provided by BIP!
popularity
This indicator reflects the "current" impact/attention (the "hype") of an article in the research community at large, based on the underlying citation network.
BIP!Popularity provided by BIP!
influence
This indicator reflects the overall/total impact of an article in the research community at large, based on the underlying citation network (diachronically).
BIP!Influence provided by BIP!
impulse
This indicator reflects the initial momentum of an article directly after its publication, based on the underlying citation network.
BIP!Impulse provided by BIP!
2
Top 10%
Average
Average
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