UK approves its second weight-loss pill while EU access lags - politico.eu
The U.K. has become the first European regulator to approve Eli Lilly's oral weight-loss pill, Foundayo, for weight management and type 2 diabetes. While the drug is now licensed, access through the National Health Service remains pending a decision in November.
Why it matters
The approval of oral GLP-1 drugs represents a significant shift in the weight-loss market, potentially increasing accessibility compared to injectable alternatives.
A decision on whether Britain’s National Health Service will cover the drug is expected in November.
Copy Link Copied Share via email Share on X Share on WhatsApp Share on LinkedIn Free article usually reserved for subscribers The U.K.’s medicines regulator has approved a weight-loss pill by Eli Lilly. | iStock August 10, 2026 5:53 pm CET By Helen Collis The U.K.’s medicines regulator approved Eli Lilly’s weight-loss pill on Monday, marking a first European license for the company’s drug.
The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency authorized Foundayo (orforglipron) for weight management and type 2 diabetes, and is the “first regulator in Europe” to approve the drug. In the EU, a decision is not expected until next year.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in