This article first appeared on GuruFocus.
Novo Nordisk (NYSE:NVO) gave investors something to cheer after the FDA approved a pill version of its blockbuster weight-loss drug Wegovy, a milestone many patients have been waiting for.
The approval makes Wegovy the first GLP-1 treatment in pill form cleared specifically for obesity, offering an alternative for people reluctant to use injections. The FDA decision was backed by results from the OASIS 4 trial, which showed patients taking oral semaglutide 25 mg daily achieved an average weight loss of 16.6%. The study focused on adults who were obese or overweight and had at least 1 related health condition, highlighting just how large the potential patient base could be.
Novo expects the Wegovy pill to launch in January 2026, setting up a major expansion of its obesity franchise. Markets reacted quickly, with Novo shares jumping about 9% in after-hours trading.
pills lower the barrier to starting treatment and could dramatically widen access to weight-loss therapy. Investors will be watching how quickly demand ramps once the oral version hits the market.