UAE Becomes Third Country to Approve Foundayo for Type 2 Diabetes

The Emirates Drug Establishment has approved Foundayo, also known as orforglipron, for the treatment of adults with type 2 diabetes, making the UAE the third country globally to approve the medicine for this use.

Developed by Eli Lilly, Foundayo is a once-daily oral, non-peptide GLP-1 receptor agonist that can be taken without restrictions related to food or water. The authority said the medicine can help improve blood glucose control while also supporting long-term weight management as part of a physician-supervised treatment plan that includes diet and physical activity.

The Emirates Drug Establishment had previously approved Foundayo for chronic weight management in April 2026.

The authority said the new indication forms part of efforts to expand access to innovative treatments and increase therapeutic options for chronic diseases while maintaining regulatory standards for quality, safety and efficacy.

It also advised people with risk factors for type 2 diabetes to undergo regular screening and maintain consistent medical follow-up to help manage the condition and reduce the risk of complications.