The pharmaceutical landscape for obesity treatment is shifting, with a new oral version of the popular weight-loss drug Wegovy now launched in the United States. Its maker, Danish firm Novo Nordisk, has begun offering the daily tablet to self-paying patients across the Atlantic, with a decision from Britain's Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) potentially following before the end of the year.
US Launch and Pricing Structure
The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) granted approval for the Wegovy pill last month, providing a significant boost for Novo Nordisk. The company is now selling the medication in two initial dosage strengths: 1.5mg and 4mg. For American patients paying out-of-pocket, the monthly cost is set at $149, which is approximately £110.
From April 15, the price for the 4mg dose will increase to $199 (around £147). Furthermore, Novo Nordisk plans to sell higher-dose versions of the pill at 9mg and 25mg strengths. A month's supply of these higher doses will be priced at $299, equivalent to about £220.
Strategic Move in a Competitive Market
This launch is a strategic play by Novo Nordisk to regain momentum in the highly competitive weight-loss drug market, where it faces stiff competition from US-based rival Eli Lilly. Eli Lilly has indicated it expects a similar regulatory decision for its own product in March.
The introduction of a pill form is seen as a crucial move to attract new consumers who may be put off by the injectable format of the original Wegovy. This treatment offers a clear alternative for those who dislike needles, potentially expanding the drug's user base significantly.
Implications for the UK and Investor Confidence
For patients and healthcare providers in the United Kingdom, attention now turns to the MHRA. The British regulator is likely to make its decision on approving the Wegovy pill by the end of 2026, with industry observers hopeful it could come as soon as this year following the US green light.
The market has responded positively to the US launch. On the day of the announcement, Novo Nordisk's shares closed 5 per cent higher, signalling renewed investor confidence as the company seeks to revive its fortunes after a period of sliding share prices last year.
