Daily GLP-1 tablets are reshaping the race for obesity treatments and widening big pharma’s ambitions.
The new oral version of Wegovy from Novo Nordisk has launched strongly in the US and is drawing both new patients and people switching from injections.
Analysts say easier use, lower costs and no need for refrigeration could push the market towards a $200bn value.
Many users prefer a pill to weekly injections such as Zepbound.
Patients report more consistent appetite control and simpler routines.
However, the tablets currently produce less weight loss than jabs and still cause side-effects for some.
Competition is intensifying.
Eli Lilly is preparing its own pill, which may work without fasting requirements.
Other drugmakers are developing oral treatments and combination therapies to protect muscle and boost results.
Rising global obesity and expanding insurance coverage are driving demand.
Health economists believe pills could be more cost-effective for governments than injections.
Severely obese patients will likely stay on jabs, while tablets attract a much larger group of overweight users.
