Wegovy Pill Sees Strong Initial U.S. Launch with Over 3,000 Prescriptions
Novo Nordisk’s oral Wegovy, a weight-loss medication, generated 3,071 U.S. prescriptions within its first four days on the market, according to data from IQVIA shared by analysts on Friday. Reuters reports that investors are closely monitoring the drug’s performance.
The launch of the oral Wegovy provides a more convenient alternative to the existing injectable version of the drug, which has seen notable demand. Wegovy contains semaglutide, the same active ingredient as novo Nordisk’s popular diabetes drug Ozempic, but at a higher dose. It works by mimicking a hormone that regulates appetite and food intake.
The initial prescription numbers suggest a strong appetite for the oral formulation. Analysts at Bloomberg noted the positive start,indicating potential for rapid adoption among patients and healthcare providers.
Novo Nordisk has faced supply challenges with the injectable Wegovy due to high demand. the introduction of the pill is expected to help alleviate some of these constraints and broaden access to the medication. Novo nordisk officially launched the oral wegovy in the U.S. on June 13, 2024.
Wegovy is approved for adults with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher, or for those with a BMI of 27 or higher who also have at least one weight-related health condition, such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, or heart disease. The drug is intended to be used in conjunction with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity.
