With the recent FDA approval of an oral Wegovy pill marking a pivotal shift in the GLP-1 landscape, we reconnected with Matthew L. Holt, PharmD, BCPS, an assistant professor of Pharmacology at PCOM South Georgia, to explore how this new medication option is reshaping access to weight-loss treatment and what it means for patients and prescribers alike.
No, the reported risks and potential side effects are essentially the same for both the daily oral tablet and the weekly injectable forms of Wegovy. There is, however, a possible new benefit of the oral version which is that it may clear from the body more quickly. Because the pill is taken daily and designed to provide its effect over a 24-hour period, stopping it allows the medication's effects—and any associated side effects—to subside more rapidly. In contrast, the injectable version of Wegovy remains active in the body for up to a week, which means side effects from the injection could last longer if they occur.
While not a side effect, it's important for patients choosing to take the oral tablet to know that it comes with strict instructions to make sure your body actually absorbs it correctly. Some of these guidelines include taking it at the same time every day, swallowing it with only a small amount of water (about four ounces), and waiting a full 30 minutes before eating, drinking or even taking other medications. Not adhering to these instructions could greatly impact the efficacy of the drug causing it to not fully absorb and otherwise go to waste.
I believe the arrival of an oral GLP-1 option for weight loss is going to be a real game-changer. It will significantly expand the prescription landscape, mainly because it removes a major barrier for patients who have needle hesitancy. There is a large subset of people who have been hesitant to start GLP-1 injections due to discomfort or fear of needles and with this new oral pill, they will likely feel much more comfortable being prescribed. That means we'll likely see more prescriptions across the U.S., and with that, longer prescription durations as taking a pill may be easier to maintain than a weekly injection.
Beyond that, the arrival of an oral option is sure to intensify competition among pharmaceutical companies. As new players enter the space, each will aim to stand out—whether by offering simpler dosing instructions, more convenient administration, or more affordable pricing options.
Learn more about GLP-1 weight loss medications including safety, diet and side effects.
In 2019, Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine (PCOM), a premier osteopathic medical school established in 1899, extended its commitment to the Southeast by establishing PCOM South Georgia. An additional teaching location in Moultrie, Georgia, PCOM South Georgia offers both a full, four-year medical program leading to the Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) degree and a Master of Science in Biomedical Sciences. PCOM is a private, not-for-profit institution that trains professionals in the health and behavioral sciences fields. Joining PCOM Georgia in Suwanee in helping to meet the healthcare needs of the state, PCOM South Georgia focuses on educating physicians for the region. For more information, visit pcom.edu or call 229-668-3110.
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