The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) granted approval on October 23, 2023 for the oral version of Novo Nordisk’s injectable weight loss drug, Wegovy. This marks the drug as the first GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) pill to receive regulatory clearance for treating obesity. The approval is expected to broaden access to a highly effective weight management solution for many Americans.
The Wegovy pill, set to launch in January 2024, has received additional approval for reducing cardiovascular risks, mirroring the effects of its injectable counterpart. In clinical trials, the highest prescribed dose of the pill, at 25 milligrams, resulted in an average weight loss of approximately 14%, comparable to the results achieved with injectable Wegovy.
Novo Nordisk has not yet disclosed pricing details for the new oral formulation. However, the company anticipates that the pill’s convenience may attract a larger patient base. Unlike injectable versions, the pill does not require cold storage, potentially increasing its distribution options. Currently, Novo offers Rybelsus, another GLP-1 pill, but it is only approved for treating type 2 diabetes.
Market Competition and Consumer Demand
This approval comes at a critical time for Novo Nordisk, which has faced challenges in maintaining its dominance in the obesity treatment market. Patients have shown significant interest in Eli Lilly’s injectable drug, Zepbound, which has been gaining traction against Wegovy. While the oral version of Wegovy may enhance Novo’s market presence, it remains uncertain whether it will substantially increase patient access.
The new pill contains large molecules known as peptides, which complicates absorption in the body. Patients are required to take the medication at least 30 minutes before their morning meal to ensure effectiveness. In contrast, Eli Lilly is developing its own GLP-1 pill, orforglipron, which is currently under FDA review. This alternative is a smaller molecule, potentially simplifying the manufacturing process. Unlike Wegovy, orforglipron does not impose strict timing requirements for consumption, although it has shown lower efficacy in trials.
Pricing strategies will play a pivotal role in determining the demand for both Wegovy and orforglipron. According to reports, both Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly have reached an agreement to offer their pills at $150 per month for the lowest dose through direct-to-consumer channels. This price point is designed to be more appealing than the cash cost of low-dose injectables, although no information has been released regarding the pricing of higher doses or insurance reimbursement options.
As the landscape of weight management treatments evolves, the introduction of Wegovy in pill form could signify a significant shift in how obesity is treated. With the potential for increased accessibility and convenience, patients may find new hope in managing their weight and associated health risks.
