Novo Nordisk has launched Wegovy – its popular weight loss treatment – in China.
China, with a population of 1.4 billion, has more than 180 million people living with obesity.
The introduction of Wegovy offers a new option for this large group of potential patients.
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Chinese business news outlet Yicai reported that the cost for 4 Wegovy injections will be 1,400 yuan or £153 which is significantly lower than the price in the United States where a month’s supply can cost £1,065 ($1,349) and United Kingdom where a month’s supply can cost up to £253.
However, patients in China will need to cover the full cost out of pocket as Wegovy has not been included in the national healthcare insurance scheme.
Wegovy is aimed at individuals struggling with severe obesity and contains the active ingredient semaglutide.
Semaglutide is known as a GLP1 – which helps manage blood sugar, reduces appetite, and increases feelings of fullness.
It is also found in Ozempic, a medication prescribed for type 2 diabetes.
Despite its benefits, users can experience side effects such as nausea and vomiting.
Additionally, studies suggest that weight regain is common once the treatment is discontinued.
Since its launch in the US in 2021, Wegovy has become highly sought after, partly due to social media buzz and endorsements from well-known figures like Elon Muska and the Kardashians.
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The drug’s immense popularity has seen Novo Nordisk become Europe’s most valuable company with a worth of over £350 billion.
In the UK, health authorities have raised concerns about the misuse of Wegovy and similar obesity treatments.
The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency has urged doctors to monitor for cases where individuals not classified as obese use these medications for weight loss as some people have experienced serious health issues.
