Novo Nordisk announced that semaglutide, the active ingredient in the popular weight-loss injection Wegovy, will soon be available as a daily tablet in the UK. This marks the first time the medication becomes accessible in oral form in the country.
The manufacturer argues that a pill offers practical advantages over the weekly injections currently available. Some patients struggle with needle anxiety or find the injection schedule inconvenient. A daily tablet eliminates both concerns for those who prefer oral medications.
Semaglutide works by mimicking glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), a hormone that regulates appetite and blood sugar. Clinical trials have demonstrated its effectiveness for weight reduction, with many patients losing 15 to 22 percent of their body weight over 68 weeks. The injectable version has generated significant demand since its approval, though supply shortages have periodically affected availability.
The pill formulation requires different dosing than injections because the body absorbs oral medication differently than injected doses. Novo Nordisk has developed a tablet designed to maximize absorption through the stomach lining, allowing patients to take one dose daily rather than weekly. This requires timing the dose correctly, typically on an empty stomach thirty minutes before food.
The transition to pill form expands treatment options for people managing weight or type 2 diabetes. Not every patient benefits from injections, whether due to medical concerns, lifestyle preferences, or psychological barriers. Having both delivery methods available means clinicians can match the treatment form to individual patient needs.
The tablet version still carries the same side effects as the injection, including nausea, vomiting, and potential risks to the pancreas or thyroid. Patients considering either form should discuss these factors with their healthcare provider and confirm whether the medication suits their specific health situation.
Availability timelines for the tablet in UK pharmacies have not yet been announced by