Novo Nordisk’s Oral Wegovy Gains Early Traction in Weight Loss Market
Novo Nordisk's Wegovy pill has recorded 3,071 retail prescriptions in its first four days following its January 5, 2026 launch, according to IQVIA data. The oral weight loss medication is the first of its kind to reach consumers, with Eli Lilly's competing drug awaiting FDA approval by April.
Shares of Novo Nordisk surged 6.5% on the news, though the company still trails Eli Lilly in overall market share for weight loss treatments. Lilly's Zepbound injection currently leads in quarterly sales after demonstrating superior efficacy in head-to-head trials against Wegovy.
Analysts project Novo's oral Wegovy could generate $1 billion in sales this year if it maintains its first-mover advantage. The early prescription numbers exclude online pharmacy fills, suggesting total uptake may be higher.
