A daily pill version of the popular weight-loss drug Wegovy will soon be available in the U.S., offering a more accessible option to injections for adults struggling with obesity or weight-related health conditions. The U.S. Food and Drug Management has previously approved tablet formulations of the drug for diabetes treatment, but this expansion broadens access to a wider patient population [[1]]. The anticipated January launch comes alongside recent efforts,including an agreement brokered by former President Trump,to lower the costs of these increasingly sought-after medications [[3]].
Patients will soon have the option of taking a daily pill to aid weight loss, offering a convenient alternative to injections, according to Novo Nordisk CEO Mike Doustdar.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has already approved tablet versions of the drug for treating diabetes, but the new formulation expands access to a weight-loss medication for adults struggling with obesity or who are overweight and have at least one weight-related health condition, such as heart disease, the company explained.
The Obesity Care Advocacy Network (OCAN), a non-profit organization advocating for adults living with obesity, welcomed the news.
“This news represents an important opportunity for people living with obesity, offering an alternative for those who may hesitate to start treatment with injections and providing a potentially more affordable option,” the organization said in a statement to the Associated Press.
Approximately 40% of American adults are affected by obesity, according to data from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
A Win for Patients
The latest generation of appetite-suppressing drugs utilizing GLP-1 agonists – including brands like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro – have gained significant popularity in recent years as a means of weight management.
Last month, former U.S. President Donald Trump announced an agreement with Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly to lower the prices of some of their weight-loss drugs in exchange for certain tariff considerations.
“This is a win for American patients, which will save lives and improve the health of millions of Americans,” Trump told reporters at the time.
Currently, these medications can cost over $1,000 per month in the U.S., but under the agreement, they could be available in initial oral doses for as little as $150, though the cost of injectable versions would remain higher.
Novo Nordisk did not disclose pricing information for the Wegovy tablets in its announcement, but indicated the medication is expected to be available in the U.S. market in January.
Trump, who campaigned on lowering drug prices during his first term, has again taken steps to pressure pharmaceutical companies to voluntarily reduce costs upon returning to office.
He previously threatened to impose 100% tariffs on branded drugs if companies did not build manufacturing facilities within the United States.
