Overview
- Novo Nordisk plans a U.S. rollout in early January 2026, offering a $149 per month starter dose and $299 per month for higher doses when purchased directly, and says supply is ready.
- The company’s direct-to-consumer price undercuts Eli Lilly’s planned orforglipron cash price of up to $399 a month and is lower than injectable Wegovy’s $349 direct price.
- Phase 3 trials reported mean weight loss of roughly 13.6% to 16.6% with the oral semaglutide tablet compared with about 2% to 3% for placebo over 64 weeks.
- Prescribing guidance requires taking the pill on an empty stomach with a small amount of water and waiting 30 minutes before food, drink, or other medicines, raising adherence concerns.
- Eli Lilly’s oral contender is under FDA review with an expedited pathway reported, and new CMS BALANCE coverage beginning in 2026–2027 is expected to shape access and out-of-pocket costs.