Semaglutide tablets to launch in Germany amid new metabolic research

Semaglutide, a GLP-1 receptor agonist used for weight management, is expanding its availability and our understanding of its biological mechanisms.

In Germany, Novo Nordisk plans to launch Wegovy tablets in pharmacies starting September 1. Following European Union approval in July, these oral tablets are intended for individuals with obesity or overweight accompanied by at least one weight-related condition. While the medication requires a prescription, patients in Germany currently must cover the costs themselves, as it is classified as a lifestyle drug, unlike Ozempic which is covered for type 2 diabetes patients.

New preclinical research published in PNAS suggests that semaglutide’s efficacy involves more than just appetite suppression. Studies on female mice indicate that the drug also facilitates energy mobilization from fat stores. The research highlights that AgRP neurons, often called ‘hunger neurons’ in the hypothalamus, must remain functional for long-term weight reduction to occur, as disrupting these neurons can diminish the metabolic response even if food intake is reduced.