EMA backs Wegovy tablets: Oral semaglutide nears EU approval

The European Medicines Agency (EMA) took a landmark step for obesity treatment in Europe on May 21, 2026: its Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use (CHMP) adopted a positive opinion recommending approval of Wegovy tablets - the first oral glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist for weight management. The tablets contain semaglutide in four strengths (1.5 mg, 4 mg, 9 mg, and 25 mg) and are taken once daily on an empty stomach. The final decision by the European Commission is pending; Novo Nordisk plans to launch in select EU markets in the second half of 2026.

How do Wegovy tablets differ from the injection?

Until now, semaglutide was only available as a weekly injection in the EU (Ozempic for diabetes, Wegovy for obesity). The oral formulation offers an alternative for patients who dislike needles or struggle with injection handling. The tablet is taken daily and must be swallowed at least 30 minutes before the first meal, beverage, or other medications. Efficacy is substantial: in the OASIS 4 trial, participants on the 25 mg tablet achieved an average weight loss of 16.6% with treatment adherence. For more details on the evidence base, visit our semaglutide overview page.

Why now - and what does it mean for the market?

The recommendation arrives amid massive upheaval in the GLP-1 market. While Novo Nordisk has already sold the Wegovy pill in the US since January 2026 (surpassing 3 million prescriptions), semaglutide patent protection expires in several countries (India, China, Brazil, Canada) in 2026, enabling cheaper generics. In Europe and Japan, however, patent protection remains until 2033. Meanwhile, Novo Nordisk faces revenue headwinds - forecasting a 5–13% sales decline for 2026 due to US price cuts and growing competition from Eli Lilly's tirzepatide. The oral pill could help reach patient groups who avoid injections.

What about supply availability in the EU?

The EU has struggled with GLP-1 supply shortages for years. The EMA and HMA jointly warned earlier in 2026 about illegal GLP-1 medicines exploiting the supply gap. The Wegovy tablet could ease the situation by providing an additional, more scalable dosage form - oral production is less complex than sterile injectables. However, it remains to be seen whether Novo Nordisk can supply sufficient quantities for the European market. EU medicines authorities have recently called for enhanced cooperation and increased manufacturing capacity to secure GLP-1 supply.

Bottom line: A milestone with open questions

The EMA recommendation for Wegovy tablets is a significant advance for obesity treatment in Europe. The oral formulation lowers the barrier to treatment initiation and offers a genuine alternative to injections. At the same time, the market remains under pressure: patent expirations, pricing debates, and competition from tirzepatide and other agents will shape the coming years. For patients, the key question is whether approved, prescription-only products will be reliably available - and not replaced by illegal or untested gray-market alternatives.

Not medical advice. This article is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical consultation. For questions about obesity treatment, please consult a healthcare professional.