The FDA has approved the first-ever weight-loss pill using GLP-1 technology, marking a potential breakthrough in obesity treatment that could launch in the U.S. as early as January.
Novo Nordisk, maker of the injectable drug Wegovy, announced on Monday that its once-daily semaglutide tablet received regulatory approval.
The pill represents a major shift from current GLP-1 medications, which require weekly injections.
The development matters because more than 100 million American adults struggle with obesity. A pill format could dramatically expand access to these highly effective but currently cumbersome treatments.
The 25-milligram tablet helps patients “reduce excess body weight and maintain weight reduction long term,” according to Novo Nordisk. Starting doses will cost approximately $149 per month, significantly less than injectable versions that run around $500 monthly for higher doses, Axios reported.
GLP-1 receptor agonists have seen a recent surge in popularity. Eli Lilly reported that sales of its competitor drug Zepbound tripled this year to more than $9 billion.
Despite their effectiveness, patient access remains problematic. High costs and inconsistent insurance coverage have limited access to these medications.
President Donald Trump announced a deal earlier this month with Eli Lilly and Novo Nordisk to expand coverage and reduce prices for GLP-1 drugs. The timing of the pill’s approval could accelerate those efforts.
The shift from injection to pill format addresses a key barrier for many patients. Some avoid treatment due to needle phobia or the inconvenience of weekly injections.
Novo Nordisk’s pill approval positions the company to capture more of the booming weight-loss drug market. Competition between pharmaceutical giants could further drive down prices and improve access.
