Newsletter
Published: 31 Dec 2025, 09:28 IST

The FDA has approved an oral form of Wegovy, expanding treatment options for obesity.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved an oral form of Novo Nordisk’s weight loss medication, Wegovy. This approval positions Novo Nordisk ahead of its competitors, including Eli Lilly, in the rapidly growing obesity drug market. Read more.

Strategic Shift

The approval of the oral version of Wegovy marks a strategic shift for Novo Nordisk, which has primarily focused on injectable formulations. The oral form offers a more convenient option for patients, potentially increasing adherence and expanding the drug’s reach.

Market Context

Obesity is a significant health concern in the United States, affecting over 40% of adults. The introduction of an oral weight loss medication could play a crucial role in addressing this public health issue. Novo Nordisk’s Wegovy, a GLP-1 receptor agonist, works by mimicking the hormone glucagon-like peptide-1 to regulate appetite and food intake.

Competitive Dynamics

Novo Nordisk’s approval comes as Eli Lilly is also developing its own oral obesity treatment. The competition between these pharmaceutical giants is expected to intensify as they vie for dominance in the obesity treatment market. The approval of oral Wegovy could give Novo Nordisk a competitive edge in this lucrative sector.

For further insights into regulatory developments and market dynamics, visit our insights hub.