Eli Lilly said its oral GLP-1 drug Foundayo demonstrated cardiovascular non-inferiority in the largest diabetes trial conducted to date. Cardiovascular safety and benefits are key factors in competition among GLP-1 agonists, influencing physicians and payers.
An analysis of a 72-week Phase 3 trial in adults with obesity estimated that Foundayo could lower long-term risks of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. At the highest dose, the drug was associated with an estimated 18% reduction in predicted cardiovascular disease risk versus placebo. It was also associated with up to a 57% reduction in predicted type 2 diabetes risk versus placebo.
The findings add to Foundayo's potential profile as an obesity treatment with broader metabolic health benefits. If approved, positive cardiovascular data for an oral treatment could support adoption in the diabetes and weight-loss markets. The results may also influence investor sentiment toward Eli Lilly and the wider healthcare sector.