CNBC·2025-10-21 19:27Core Insights - Novo Nordisk's oral semaglutide has received FDA approval for reducing cardiovascular risks in individuals with type 2 diabetes, marking a significant expansion of its therapeutic applications [3][4]. Group 1: Product Approval and Efficacy - The FDA approved oral semaglutide for lowering the risk of major cardiovascular complications, showing a 14% reduction in risk over four years compared to a placebo in the SOUL trial [3]. - Oral semaglutide, marketed as Rybelsus, is the only approved GLP-1 pill and has been available since 2019, also serving as the active ingredient in Novo Nordisk's obesity treatments, Ozempic and Wegovy [4]. Group 2: Market Competition - Eli Lilly is developing a competing GLP-1 pill, orforglipron, which is expected to launch globally next year, creating a competitive landscape for market share in obesity treatments [6]. - Analysts note that while Novo Nordisk's oral semaglutide has shown higher efficacy in obesity trials, Eli Lilly's orforglipron may offer advantages in absorption and manufacturing scalability [7]. Group 3: Future Developments - Novo Nordisk is exploring the use of oral semaglutide in Alzheimer's disease, while Eli Lilly is conducting trials for orforglipron in obstructive sleep apnea and hypertension [8].