health
FDA approves Eli Lilly's GLP-1 pill, opening the next phase of the weight loss drug market
The FDA approval of Eli Lilly's GLP-1 pill Foundayo comes nearly three months after Novo Nordisk's oral version of Wegovy hit the market.
TL;DR
- The FDA has approved Eli Lilly's once-daily GLP-1 pill, Foundayo.
- Foundayo will be available through LillyDirect, pharmacies, and telehealth platforms.
- The pill is a more accessible alternative to injectable GLP-1 medications like Zepbound and Wegovy.
- Foundayo's small molecule structure facilitates easier manufacturing and global distribution compared to peptide-based drugs.
- Lilly expects Foundayo to be approved in over 40 countries within the next year.
- Foundayo is expected to reach $14.79 billion in sales by 2030, according to analysts.
- Novo Nordisk plans to argue that its Wegovy pill is more effective, showing 16.6% average weight loss compared to Foundayo's 12.4%.
- The starting price for both drugs will be $149 for cash-paying customers.
- Seniors on Medicare will be able to access Foundayo and other GLP-1 obesity medicines for $50 a month starting this summer.
- The successful launch of Foundayo is considered crucial for Lilly's stock performance.