PLAINSBORO, N.J. — Novo Nordisk is expanding its diabetes portfolio with the U.S. launch of an oral version of Ozempic, a move that could further reshape treatment pathways and pharmacy dispensing trends within the GLP-1 category.
The company said Ozempic (semaglutide) tablets will be available starting May 4 in 1.5 mg, 4 mg, and 9 mg doses for adults with type 2 diabetes. The therapy is indicated not only to improve blood sugar control but also to reduce the risk of major cardiovascular events in high-risk patients.
The launch marks the first time Ozempic will be offered in both injectable and oral forms under a single brand, building on the semaglutide tablet previously marketed as Rybelsus. The reformulated version maintains a similar efficacy and safety profile while offering a smaller pill size and simplified brand recognition for patients and providers.
For retail pharmacy, the introduction of an oral GLP-1 under the Ozempic name is significant. GLP-1 therapies remain among the fastest-growing and most clinically impactful categories, driving prescription volume, patient engagement, and broader care management opportunities at the pharmacy counter.
“Ozempic® has become a leading, trusted brand for people with type 2 diabetes and the science is deep. Ozempic® pill delivers strong blood sugar control and proven cardiovascular risk reduction, and people may also lose weight,” said Ed Cinca, senior vice president of Marketing & Patient Solutions at Novo Nordisk Inc. “With Ozempic® now available as both an injection and oral option under one brand, treatment can be individualized so patients are getting the proven semaglutide medicine that best fits their needs.”
The product will be distributed through more than 70,000 pharmacies nationwide, positioning chain drug stores, regional operators and independents at the center of access and patient education.
Novo Nordisk is also emphasizing affordability and access. The company said that most insured patients could pay as little as $25, and self-pay options will be available through NovoCare Pharmacy and select telehealth providers, reflecting the continued integration of digital health channels into pharmacy care models.
“Type 2 diabetes care isn't one-size-fits-all, and how a medicine fits into someone's daily life really matters,” said David Kayne, MD, CDCES, Partner at Cedars-Sinai Medical Group, Encino, CA. “For some people, having a pill option can fit better into their daily routines. While injectable and oral medicines both treat adults with type 2 diabetes, they are not the same - and as clinicians, our goal is always to work with patients to find the option that best fits their needs, preferences, and routines.”
The expansion comes amid intensifying competition in the GLP-1 segment, as manufacturers continue to invest in new formulations, indications, and delivery mechanisms. For pharmacy operators, the category remains central to the evolution of the drug store into a front-line healthcare destination, particularly as demand for chronic disease management and cardiometabolic care continues to rise.
Submit Your Press Release
Have news to share? Send us your press releases and announcements.
Send Press Release
