An oral tablet version of semaglutide—marketed as Ozempic in injectable form—is now available in the United States. Novo Nordisk announced the tablet launched on May 4 for adults with type 2 diabetes. The new pill is a reformulation of the company’s earlier oral semaglutide product, Rybelsus, and is intended to make the same active drug easier to recognize under the Ozempic brand.
Dosages and formulation
Rybelsus was sold in 3 mg, 7 mg and 14 mg strengths. The reformulated oral Ozempic comes in 1.5 mg, 4 mg and 9 mg tablets; Novo Nordisk says the new formulation achieves the same efficacy and safety at these lower doses. The weekly injectable Ozempic shot will remain available; injectable semaglutide is also often prescribed off-label for weight loss.
Context in the growing oral GLP-1 market
This is the third GLP-1 medication introduced in pill form this year. In January, an oral form of Wegovy (for weight management) received approval, and in April the FDA approved Eli Lilly’s Foundayo pill for weight management while asking for further study of heart, liver and other risks. Novo Nordisk says it expects a regulatory decision on a 25 mg Ozempic tablet by the end of 2026.
Why Novo Nordisk rebranded
The company says rebranding and reformulation will help patients and clinicians more easily identify FDA-approved semaglutide options. Offering both pill and injection also gives patients a choice based on convenience and preference.
Who may prefer the pill
Clinicians expect the oral form to appeal to people who dislike needles or who find repeated injections burdensome. Pills are easier to carry, do not require refrigeration, and can be less expensive in some cases. However, some patients prefer weekly injections because they require less frequent dosing; oral GLP-1 tablets must be taken daily and on an empty stomach, which can be less convenient for some.
Availability and cost
A diagnosis of type 2 diabetes and a prescription are required to obtain oral Ozempic. Novo Nordisk says the pill will be stocked in more than 70,000 U.S. pharmacies and will be covered by insurance for most patients with type 2 diabetes; some plans may offer a three-month supply for as little as $25. For people paying cash, NovoCare Pharmacy and certain telehealth providers list approximate monthly prices of $149 for the 1.5 mg starter dose, $199 for 4 mg, and $299 for 9 mg.
Efficacy and safety
Novo Nordisk reports that oral Ozempic has demonstrated effectiveness in lowering the risk of major cardiovascular events (heart attack, stroke or death) among people at high cardiovascular risk. The company and clinical leaders emphasize that oral and injectable Ozempic are not interchangeable without medical guidance, and patients should consult their healthcare professional before switching formulations.
Common side effects are similar for pill and injection and include abdominal pain, constipation, diarrhea and nausea. Because oral GLP-1 drugs must be absorbed through the gut, early oral formulations required higher doses; the new reformulation aims to improve absorption so lower doses can achieve similar effects, which may reduce side effects for some people.
Long-term use and lifestyle considerations
GLP-1 medications work in part by suppressing appetite and slowing gastric emptying; they do not replace dietary and lifestyle measures. These drugs are often prescribed as long-term therapies, and their effectiveness can diminish as the body adapts. For best results, clinicians recommend combining medication with healthy dietary changes, adequate protein intake and regular exercise including strength training. Patients should discuss a comprehensive, long-term treatment plan and potential risks with their healthcare provider before starting or switching therapy.