What is the story about?
What's Happening?
Novo Nordisk has announced promising results from a Phase 3 trial of a semaglutide pill designed to aid weight loss. The study involved overweight or obese participants who were given either the semaglutide pill or a placebo, alongside diet and exercise counseling. Participants taking the pill lost an average of 13.6% of their body weight over 64 weeks, compared to a 2.2% loss in the placebo group. The pill offers an alternative to injectable forms of semaglutide, which are currently used to treat obesity and Type 2 diabetes. The oral form eliminates barriers such as needle aversion and refrigeration requirements, potentially increasing accessibility and ease of use.
Why It's Important?
The development of an oral semaglutide pill could significantly impact the weight loss drug market by providing a more accessible option for patients. Injectable forms have faced supply chain issues and shortages, which the pill form could alleviate. The ease of use and mass production potential of the pill could lead to increased adoption and availability, addressing the growing demand for effective obesity treatments. However, the pill does have side effects, primarily gastrointestinal issues, which were reported by 74% of participants. Despite this, the oral form may offer a slower onset and longer duration of side effects compared to injectables.
What's Next?
Novo Nordisk is seeking regulatory approval for the semaglutide pill to treat obesity, with a decision from the Food and Drug Administration expected by the end of the year. If approved, the pill could be available by 2026. The company already has an approved semaglutide pill, Rybelsus, for Type 2 diabetes treatment. Additionally, Eli Lilly is developing a similar GLP-1 pill, orforglipron, which is nearing market readiness for obesity and Type 2 diabetes management.
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