Novo Nordisk CEO Mike Doustdar confirmed plans to launch a pill version of the blockbuster obesity drug Wegovy in the United States. Speaking with Katie Greifeld at the annual JPMorgan Healthcare Conference in San Francisco, Doustdar expressed strong confidence in future demand for an oral treatment option, signaling a major strategic shift for the pharmaceutical giant.

An oral form of Wegovy would be a game-changer for Novo Nordisk, which currently dominates the market with injectable treatments. Patients often prefer pills over shots, and an effective pill could dramatically expand the potential user base. This move also aims to address ongoing supply constraints for the injectable version.

Novo Nordisk faces fierce competition from Eli Lilly, whose own injectable and oral weight-loss drugs are gaining traction. The company must still secure regulatory approval for the new pill formulation. Investors and patients are watching closely for updates on pricing, availability, and real-world effectiveness data.