The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved a daily oral version of Wegovy, a weight-loss medication developed by Novo Nordisk. This approval marks the first time a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) obesity treatment is available in pill form, eliminating the need for injections. The Wegovy pill is expected to be available in the United States by early next month, a development that offers a more convenient option for individuals hesitant about using needles.
Mike Doustdar, president and CEO of Novo Nordisk, expressed optimism about the new product, stating, “As the first oral GLP-1 treatment for people living with overweight or obesity, the Wegovy pill provides patients with a new, convenient treatment option that can help patients start or continue their weight loss journey.” This innovative pill contains semaglutide, the same active ingredient found in Wegovy injections, as well as in other Novo Nordisk products like Ozempic and Rybelsus, a diabetes medication approved in 2019.
The Wegovy pill functions by mimicking a natural gut hormone that is released after eating, which helps to reduce appetite and prolong feelings of fullness. According to Jason Brett, principal US medical head for Novo Nordisk, the pill will be available in doses of 1.5 milligrams, 4 milligrams, 9 milligrams, and a higher long-term dose of 25 milligrams.
A recent late-stage trial demonstrated the effectiveness of the 25-milligram dose, with participants losing an average of 16.6% of their body weight after 64 weeks. In comparison, those receiving a placebo experienced only a 2.2% weight loss. This outcome aligns closely with results from Wegovy injections, which saw patients lose about 15% of their body weight after 68 weeks.
The side effects associated with the Wegovy pill are similar to other GLP-1 medications, primarily involving gastrointestinal issues such as nausea and vomiting. Doustdar emphasized the unique benefits of the Wegovy pill, stating, “No other current oral GLP-1 treatment can match the weight loss delivered by the Wegovy pill, and we are very excited for what this will mean for patients in the US.” Additionally, the FDA has approved the pill for reducing the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and other cardiovascular complications.
While pricing details are still forthcoming, Novo Nordisk previously indicated that the lowest dose might cost around $149 per month when purchased directly by consumers. This pricing point is lower than that of low-dose injections, although the costs for higher doses and insurance pricing have yet to be disclosed.
In a competitive landscape, Novo Nordisk may soon be joined by Eli Lilly, which is developing its own GLP-1 medication, orforglipron. This product is currently under FDA review, with expectations for approval by March 2026. Late-stage trials have shown that participants using Lilly’s pill lost an average of 10.5% of their body weight, approximately 23 pounds, over a period of 16 months, while also experiencing improvements in cholesterol levels, blood sugar, blood pressure, and triglycerides.
The introduction of the Wegovy pill not only diversifies the weight-loss options available but also reflects an ongoing commitment to addressing obesity through innovative medical solutions. As patients seek effective and convenient treatments, the Wegovy pill stands to play a significant role in their weight loss journeys.
