Novo's Wegovy pill surpasses 26,000 prescriptions

• Wegovy pill recorded 26,109 prescriptions for the week ended January 23, described by Barclays analysts as a 'very strong' launch
• Investors are tracking prescription data to assess whether Novo Nordisk can leverage its first-mover advantage against competitor Eli Lilly
• The oral formulation of Wegovy represents Novo's effort to maintain market leadership in the competitive weight-loss pharmaceutical sector

Summary

Novo Nordisk's oral Wegovy pill achieved 26,109 U.S. prescriptions in the second full week following its launch, for the week ending January 23, 2026, according to IQVIA data reported by Reuters. Barclays analysts characterized this launch performance as "very strong."

Key Market Context:

The prescription figures are being closely monitored by investors as Novo Nordisk seeks to leverage its first-mover advantage in the highly competitive weight-loss pharmaceutical market against primary rival Eli Lilly. The Danish drugmaker's pill formulation represents a significant development in obesity treatment, offering an alternative to injectable medications.

Market Implications:

The strong prescription numbers suggest robust initial market adoption of the oral Wegovy formulation. This data point is critical for investors assessing Novo Nordisk's competitive positioning in the lucrative weight-loss drug sector, which has seen explosive growth driven by GLP-1 medications. The strong uptake indicates potential for sustained revenue growth and market share gains.

The launch timing and early prescription velocity will be particularly important as the company faces increasing competition from Eli Lilly and other pharmaceutical manufacturers entering the obesity treatment space. The transition from injectable to oral formulations could expand the addressable market by appealing to patients who prefer pills over injections.

Barclays' positive assessment of the launch strength suggests analyst confidence in Novo Nordisk's ability to maintain its leadership position in the weight-loss pharmaceutical market, which is projected to reach tens of billions of dollars in annual sales globally.