A new era of weight-loss treatment could soon trade needles for pills. Drugmakers behind GLP-1 injections like Wegovy and Zepbound are racing to launch once-daily oral versions that may help people lose significant weight—without weekly shots, The Wall Street Journal reported.
Novo Nordisk has submitted an oral form of semaglutide, the active ingredient in Wegovy and Ozempic, to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). A decision is expected by the end of 2025, potentially setting up a launch in early 2026, according to WSJ. Eli Lilly plans to apply around the same time for its oral drug orforglipron, which works differently than the injectable Zepbound but still mimics gut hormones to suppress appetite.
“To have another option to switch to, I think, is going to be appealing for a lot of people,” said Dr. Scott Isaacs, an obesity-medicine specialist and president of the American Association of Clinical Endocrinology, in WSJ.
Why Weight-Loss Pills Could Change the Game
Daily pills could be less invasive, easier to stick with, and cheaper to produce than sterile injectables, which have faced supply shortages and require cold-chain storage. WSJ reported that analyst firm TD Cowen projects current GLP-1 drugs will generate about $72 billion globally in 2025.
In a Phase 3 study cited by WSJ, Novo’s pill helped participants lose 16.6% of body weight, while Lilly’s Zepbound injections have shown average losses above 22%. Oral drugs may cause more gut-related side effects like nausea and vomiting, and could be better suited for people with less weight to lose, doctors say.
Big Demand, Real Skepticism
David Risinger of Leerink Partners told WSJ pills could capture 25% of the GLP-1 market, calling consumer demand “tremendous.” But TD Cowen’s Michael Nedelcovych noted many doctors still view injectables as more effective.
GLP-1 pills could make weight loss more accessible and convenient, but studies show they’re most effective when combined with healthy habits like exercise, balanced nutrition, and adequate sleep.
While the medication can jumpstart progress, sustainable results still depend on long-term lifestyle changes.
This story was originally reported by Men’s Fitness on Sep 20, 2025, where it first appeared in the News section. Add Men’s Fitness as a Preferred Source by clicking here.