America approves first weight loss pill: an alternative to Wigovy injections
In a move that represents a radical shift in the field of weight-loss treatments, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has officially approved the first pill-based version of a popular obesity , opening the door to easier and more flexible treatment options for patients. This announcement follows a revelation by the Danish pharmaceutical giant Novo Nordisk, the developer of the treatment, which is currently leading a global revolution in weight-loss medications.
GLP-1 technology: From diabetes treatment to weight loss
These new tablets are based on the same revolutionary technology initially designed to treat diabetes . They work by mimicking the action of the digestive hormone known as GLP-1, which is responsible for sending satiety signals to the brain and regulating appetite, thus reducing the urge to eat and slowing down gastric emptying.
This technology is currently marketed commercially within a range of well-known medications such as Ozempic, Wegovi, and Zybound, which were typically available as a weekly injectable solution. However, its development now in pill form represents a significant leap forward in terms of ease of administration, particularly for individuals with needle phobia or those who find it difficult to adhere to an injection schedule.
The importance of the decision and its impact on public health
In its official statement, Novo Nordisk noted that Wigovy pills are the first oral GLP-1 hormone therapy approved for weight management in the United States. This decision will facilitate access to these highly popular treatments in the US and around the world.
The significance of this event lies in the global health context, where obesity is classified as a chronic disease linked to numerous serious health risks, such as heart disease, stroke, and certain types of cancer. In the United States specifically, obesity affects approximately 40% of adults, making the provision of non-surgical and uncomplicated treatment options a top priority for health authorities.
Economic challenges and access to treatment
Despite their proven effectiveness in achieving significant weight loss, these treatments face challenges related to cost and availability. The surge in demand for these medications in recent years has sometimes led to global supply shortages. Furthermore, their high cost, which can exceed $1,000 per month in the US market, remains inaccessible to a large number of patients, sparking ongoing debate about the need for health insurance coverage to ensure wider accessibility for the population.
