Recently, U.S. regulators approved a pill version of Wegovy, a popular weight-loss drug. This is exciting news because it’s the first daily oral medication for treating obesity. The manufacturer, Novo Nordisk, now has a competitive edge over Eli Lilly, whose oral drug is still being reviewed.
Both drugs belong to a class known as GLP-1s, which mimic a hormone that helps control appetite. This breakthrough in medication is a significant shift in how obesity can be treated. With about 100 million Americans experiencing obesity, the demand for effective treatments is high.
Experts predict that these oral pills will make obesity treatments more accessible and affordable. The approval of Wegovy pills could broaden the current market, which has already seen a rise in people using injectable GLP-1 drugs. According to a KFF survey, about 1 in 8 Americans have used these injectables, but many find them too costly.
Dr. Fatima Cody Stanford, an obesity expert, shared her insights, saying, “There’s an entire demographic that can benefit from the pills.” She emphasizes the importance of having options for patients rather than just focusing on which company gets their product to market first.
The new Wegovy pill contains 25 mg of semaglutide, the same ingredient in its injectable versions. Clinical trials show promising results: participants lost an average of 13.6% of their body weight after 15 months, compared to just 2.2% for those on a placebo. Chris Mertens, a participant in the trial, lost 40 pounds with the pill, pointing out that it significantly decreased his appetite.
In the same vein, Lilly’s orforglipron is also showing effective results in trials, with an average weight loss of 11.2%. However, both medications come with side effects like nausea and diarrhea. Interestingly, the Wegovy pill requires specific dosing instructions — it must be taken on an empty stomach with a sip of water, needing a 30-minute window before eating anything. This design is necessary to allow the medication to be absorbed effectively.
On the cost front, producing pills is generally less expensive than injections, which could lead to lower prices for consumers. The Trump administration has already worked with drugmakers to negotiate cheaper prices for GLP-1 drugs, which often cost over $1,000 monthly. Initial pricing for the Wegovy pill is expected to be around $149 per month.
Patients’ preferences might differ when it comes to daily pills versus weekly injections. Some dislike needles, while others find comfort in the routine of shots. Chris Mertens mentioned that the daily pill created an intentional routine, reminding him to make healthier choices throughout the day.
Dr. Angela Fitch, an obesity expert, highlights the most crucial factor: accessibility. She states, “It’s all about the price. Just give me a drug at $100 a month that is relatively effective.” As these new treatments enter the market, they could significantly reshape the landscape of obesity management, offering hope to many.
