Novo Nordisk Launches Wegovy Weight-Loss Pill in US, Intensifying Price Competition

Novo Nordisk has launched the first GLP-1 weight-loss pill in the US at a lower price than injections.
The once-daily Wegovy pill is the only oral GLP-1 treatment currently available.
It follows US regulatory approval just before Christmas and is now on sale nationwide.
Self-pay patients can access the starting dose for $149 a month, far below injectable prices.
Injectable weight-loss drugs often cost more than $1,000 a month without insurance.
Novo hopes the pill’s lower price and needle-free format will attract more patients.
The launch intensifies competition with Eli Lilly, maker of rival obesity drugs.
Novo’s shares rose after the announcement, despite strong pressure from competitors.
The company aims to regain market share after profit warnings and restructuring last year.