In a major shift for the lucrative obesity treatment market, Danish pharmaceutical giant Novo Nordisk has launched a pill version of its blockbuster drug Wegovy in the United States. This marks the first oral GLP-1 medication for weight loss to hit the market, arriving at a price point designed to undercut existing injectable treatments and ignite a fierce price war.
A Needle-Free Alternative at a Competitive Price
The once-daily pill, which received approval from US regulators just before Christmas, became available on Monday. Self-paying patients can access the starting 1.5mg dose for $149 per month, or approximately $5 per day. This is substantially lower than the typical $1,000-plus monthly list price for weight-loss injections, although Novo had already begun offering its injectable Wegovy at $349 per month for cash payers in November.
Beyond affordability, the pill format is expected to broaden appeal significantly by eliminating the need for injections, making it easier for patients to incorporate into their daily routines. Novo Nordisk stated the launch "opens new possibilities for the more than 100 million Americans living with obesity."
Market Dynamics and Competitive Pressure
The launch comes at a critical time for Novo Nordisk. The company, once Europe's most valuable, has faced intense competition from US rival Eli Lilly's injectable treatments Mounjaro and Zepbound. This has contributed to a 44% drop in Novo's share price over the past year, leading to profit warnings, job cuts, and management changes.
The new pill is a strategic move to reclaim market share. Novo's share price rose over 4% on the launch news. The pricing strategy directly pressures competitors; Eli Lilly is developing its own anti-obesity pill and had planned to cap higher doses at $399 monthly for cash payers. Both companies have also reduced cash prices for their injectable drugs.
The starting dose is now available at over 70,000 US pharmacies, including CVS and Costco, and via telehealth providers. Higher doses will cost up to $299 monthly, with an introductory offer on the 4mg dose. Patients with insurance may pay as little as $25 per month.
Future Prospects and UK Approval
Ed Cinca, Senior Vice-President at Novo Nordisk, highlighted the pill's potential, noting it "demonstrated about 17% weight loss, if all patients stayed on treatment." The drug mimics the GLP-1 hormone to suppress appetite.
While currently approved only in the US, the UK's medicines regulator is reviewing Novo Nordisk's application for the Wegovy pill, with a decision expected before the end of the year. This launch firmly accelerates the commercial and clinical battle in the global anti-obesity drug sector, making effective treatment more accessible and affordable for millions.
