In brief
The FDA's approval of Wegovy's pill form offers a groundbreaking alternative in weight-loss medications, delivering comparable efficacy to the injectable version. Trials indicate an average weight loss of 16.6%, with 20% or greater weight loss observed in a significant portion of participants. Launch is anticipated in early January 2026, potentially rejuvenating Novo Nordisk's standing in the competitive weight-loss market.
The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved a pill version of the weight-loss drug Wegovy, according to pharmaceutical giant Novo Nordisk.
It is the first pill of its kind to receive approval from the regulator, marking a new era for weight-loss drugs.
Wegovy's Danish makers Novo Nordisk stated that the once-daily pill offers a convenient option to the injectable form and promises the same weight loss as the shot, following Wegovy's specific approval for weight loss.
Other medications like Ozempic have similar effects but were primarily approved for Type 2 diabetes treatment.
The Wegovy pill showed an average weight loss of 16.6% during Novo Nordisk's clinical trials, with about a third of the 1,300 participants achieving 20% or greater weight loss.
The new pill is expected to be launched in the US in early January 2026. Mike Doustdar, the firm's chief executive, emphasized that patients will enjoy a convenient, once-daily pill that helps them achieve weight loss comparable to the original Wegovy injection.
This approval could enhance Novo Nordisk's sales following a challenging year marked by declining shares and intense competition from other drugmakers, including Eli Lilly. Following the announcement, Novo Nordisk’s shares saw an almost 10% increase in after-hours trading in New York.
