UAE
Novo Nordisk Launches Wegovy Pill in UAE as First Market Outside United States
By 19Network Editorial Team · Jun 3, 2026 · 2 min read
The UAE becomes the first country outside the United States to offer the oral tablet version of the semaglutide weight-loss medication.
Novo Nordisk has launched the oral version of its weight-loss medication, Wegovy, in the UAE, making the Emirates the first market outside the United States to receive the pill form of the treatment. The rollout provides a non-invasive alternative to the weekly injectable version of the semaglutide-based drug. Oral Treatment Expansion The medication, a GLP-1 receptor agonist, is designed for chronic weight management in adults. While the injectable format of Wegovy has faced global supply constraints due to high demand, the introduction of the daily pill aims to diversify administration options for patients and healthcare providers. The UAE was selected as the lead international territory for this launch following regulatory clearances. The oral tablet is indicated for individuals with a body mass index (BMI) categorized as obese, or those classified as overweight who also have at least one weight-related medical condition, such as hypertension or type 2 diabetes. Medical professionals note that the pill format may improve patient adherence for those who are hesitant to perform self-injections. Regional Health Context The selection of the UAE as the first international market for…