Novo Nordisk Launches Higher-Dose Wegovy as Eli Lilly Wins Foundayo Approval

Novo Nordisk launched a higher-dose version of its popular weight-loss drug Wegovy across the United States on Tuesday, while Eli Lilly received Food and Drug Administration approval for its new oral GLP-1 medication, Foundayo, intensifying competition in the booming obesity treatment market.

The Danish pharmaceutical company introduced Wegovy HD, a 7.2-milligram injectable dose that doubles the previous maximum of 2.4 milligrams. Approved last month under the FDA's National Priority Review Voucher program, the new formulation aims to provide stronger options for patients requiring more intensive dosing to achieve significant weight reduction and cardiometabolic benefits. Novo Nordisk stated that Wegovy HD is available through U.S. pharmacies, its NovoCare Pharmacy, and select telehealth providers. Cash-paying adults can expect to pay $399 per month, though commercially insured patients may access it for as little as $25 monthly via a savings offer. The company also announced plans for a discounted subscription program for self-paying Wegovy users, seeking to counter market share losses to competitors.

In a parallel development, Eli Lilly's Foundayo, an oral GLP-1 agonist...