The arrival of Wegovy tablets in Portugal marks a significant development in the country's healthcare landscape, offering a new treatment option for obesity. This oral medication, developed by Novo Nordisk, has already been approved by the European Medicines Agency (EMA) and is available in the United States, the United Kingdom, and the United Arab Emirates. The tablets come in dosages of 1.5 mg, 4 mg, 9 mg, and 25 mg, with a pre-filled single-dose pen of 7.2 mg also entering the market. This new treatment method provides an alternative to the existing injectable versions of Wegovy, which have been available in Portugal with dosages ranging from 0.25 mg to 2.4 mg. The injectable versions, priced between €150 and €200, have been a staple in Portuguese obesity treatment, but the introduction of tablets may offer more convenience and potentially lower costs. The oral treatment begins with a dose of 1.5 mg, gradually increasing to 4 mg, 9 mg, and 25 mg over four weeks, with a maintenance dose of 25 mg per day. The price of the tablets is not yet confirmed, but it is expected to be similar to other injectable pens for weight loss, such as Mounjaro, which could cost around €400 in Portugal. Novo Nordisk has also reduced the prices of its medications to improve access and support long-term treatment adherence, considering obesity as a chronic disease. This development in obesity treatment in Portugal is a significant step forward, providing patients with more options and potentially making weight management more accessible and affordable. The introduction of Wegovy tablets is a welcome addition to the healthcare system, offering a new approach to a complex health issue.
