Novo Nordisk has revolutionized the treatment of obesity with its groundbreaking pill version of Wegovy, a weight-loss medication that was previously administered via weekly injections. This innovative development makes it easier for individuals to manage their weight and reduce their risk of cardiovascular disease.
The Wegovy pill contains the same active ingredient as Ozempic's, semaglutide, which works by mimicking the effects of GLP-1, a hormone produced by the small intestine. By doing so, it lowers blood sugar levels and slows digestion. The pill is taken daily on an empty stomach with water, with patients directed not to eat, drink, or take other medications for 30 minutes afterward.
The starter dose of Wegovy is 1.5 mg, and stronger doses are expected to be available by the end of the week. The manufacturer has announced that the pills will become more affordable and accessible, with commercial insurance covering some costs and individuals paying as little as $25 per month. However, out-of-pocket costs will range from $149 to $299 for a one-month supply, depending on the dose.
Clinical trials have shown that Wegovy pills can lead to significant weight loss β around 17% of body weight β in adults who are overweight or obese but do not have diabetes. Additionally, these medications have been proven to reduce the risk of cardiovascular events.
While Eli Lilly's Mounjaro and Zepbound pills are expected to follow suit, Novo Nordisk has taken an early lead by introducing its own pill version. Preliminary results from clinical trials have shown promise for a similar pill from Eli Lilly, which may not require the same 30-minute food and drink restriction as Wegovy.
With this new development, individuals seeking to manage their weight can now access a convenient and affordable treatment option. As Ed Cinca, senior vice president of marketing and patient solutions at Novo Nordisk, noted, "This moment is about changing what's possible in weight management... We have worked to ensure that Wegovy pill is affordable and accessible to those who need it."
The Wegovy pill contains the same active ingredient as Ozempic's, semaglutide, which works by mimicking the effects of GLP-1, a hormone produced by the small intestine. By doing so, it lowers blood sugar levels and slows digestion. The pill is taken daily on an empty stomach with water, with patients directed not to eat, drink, or take other medications for 30 minutes afterward.
The starter dose of Wegovy is 1.5 mg, and stronger doses are expected to be available by the end of the week. The manufacturer has announced that the pills will become more affordable and accessible, with commercial insurance covering some costs and individuals paying as little as $25 per month. However, out-of-pocket costs will range from $149 to $299 for a one-month supply, depending on the dose.
Clinical trials have shown that Wegovy pills can lead to significant weight loss β around 17% of body weight β in adults who are overweight or obese but do not have diabetes. Additionally, these medications have been proven to reduce the risk of cardiovascular events.
While Eli Lilly's Mounjaro and Zepbound pills are expected to follow suit, Novo Nordisk has taken an early lead by introducing its own pill version. Preliminary results from clinical trials have shown promise for a similar pill from Eli Lilly, which may not require the same 30-minute food and drink restriction as Wegovy.
With this new development, individuals seeking to manage their weight can now access a convenient and affordable treatment option. As Ed Cinca, senior vice president of marketing and patient solutions at Novo Nordisk, noted, "This moment is about changing what's possible in weight management... We have worked to ensure that Wegovy pill is affordable and accessible to those who need it."