The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved the first oral version of Wegovy, a popular weight loss medication containing semaglutide. This marks a significant shift in treatment options, offering patients an alternative to the previously available injectable form. Experts confirm the pill appears roughly as effective as the injection, though with potential differences in side effects and dosing.
How Effective Is the Oral Wegovy?
Clinical trials indicate that the oral semaglutide pill leads to substantial weight loss, comparable to the injectable version. A study published in The New England Journal of Medicine showed that participants taking a 25mg daily dose lost an average of 13.6% of their body weight over 64 weeks. Another trial reported an even higher average loss of 16.6%. For comparison, a previous study on the injectable semaglutide found a 14.9% weight reduction with weekly injections.
The higher dose of the oral pill is due to the body’s less efficient absorption of medication taken by mouth. Injectable semaglutide delivers the drug directly into the bloodstream, whereas oral administration requires a much larger dose to compensate for loss through digestion.
Side Effects and Considerations
While the side effect profile is similar between the two forms, some doctors suggest that the oral pill may cause more gastrointestinal (GI) upset. The higher dose increases the potential for nausea and vomiting. However, muscle loss remains a concern with all forms of weight loss, including semaglutide, making strength training and adequate protein intake crucial.
Key takeaway : The pill requires consistent daily intake at the same time each morning, on an empty stomach, with only a small sip of water to maximize absorption. Missing doses is not advised, as the medication’s effectiveness relies on consistent blood levels.
Cost and Accessibility
The oral Wegovy is expected to be more affordable than the injectable form, potentially increasing access for individuals without insurance coverage. This could be a major benefit, as the cost of weight loss medications remains a barrier for many.
What Does This Mean?
The approval of the oral Wegovy pill provides a new level of convenience for individuals seeking weight loss medications. The choice between the pill and the injection ultimately comes down to patient preference, as both forms offer similar efficacy. Doctors emphasize the importance of discussing options with healthcare providers to determine the best course of action. The FDA’s approval signals a wider shift toward oral GLP-1 treatments, suggesting that future developments in this field are likely.
