Novo Nordisk's Newly Approved Weight Loss Pill Shows Record Prescription Data

Core Viewpoint - Novo Nordisk's Wegovy (semaglutide) pill has shown strong initial demand with 3,071 U.S. prescriptions in the first four days post-launch, indicating potential market strength for the weight loss drug [1] Group 1: Product Performance - Wegovy pill demonstrated an average weight loss of approximately 17% (16.6%) when combined with a reduced-calorie diet and exercise, compared to about 3% (2.7%) for placebo [2] - In clinical trials, Wegovy has helped obese individuals lose an average of 21% of their body weight [9] Group 2: Regulatory Approvals - The UK's Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) approved a maximum dose of 7.2 mg per week for Wegovy [3] - Novo Nordisk submitted a supplemental marketing application to the U.S. FDA for a higher dose of semaglutide injection (7.2 mg) for chronic weight management in November 2025 [3] - The European Medicines Agency's Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use (CHMP) issued a positive opinion for the higher dose, with a regulatory decision expected in the first quarter of 2026 [4] Group 3: Administration Guidelines - Wegovy is administered as three injections of 2.4 mg for weight management in adults with obesity, alongside a reduced-calorie diet and exercise, for patients with a BMI of 30 kg/m² or higher [5] - The initial dose for patients starting Wegovy is 0.25 mg per week, with gradual increases to a maximum of 7.2 mg per week after a minimum of 4 weeks on 2.4 mg [6] - Patients must ensure they have enough pens to complete their doses and follow specific guidelines for injection [7][8] Group 4: Market Reaction - Following the news of Wegovy's launch and prescription numbers, Novo Nordisk shares rose by 7.20% to $61.23 [10]