Oral Semaglutide Weight Loss Pill Set for Israeli Launch
Translated & summarized from Hamal by baba
An oral weight loss pill containing semaglutide, similar to the Wegovy injection, is slated for release in Israeli pharmacies on October 28, costing 640-1,260 shekels monthly. The daily pill mimics a natural hormone to reduce appetite and increase fullness, with studies showing average weight loss between 13.6% and 16.6%. While avoiding injections, the oral form requires a daily morning regimen and carries similar gastrointestinal side effects. Potential future subsidies from health funds could halve the cost.
The story in 6 lines · by baba
- Oral semaglutide weight loss pill to launch in Israel on October 28.
- Monthly cost for the daily pill will range from 640 to 1,260 shekels.
- The drug mimics GLP-1 hormone, reducing appetite and increasing satiety.
- Studies show average weight loss of 13.6% to 16.6% with the oral medication.
- Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation.
- Potential future subsidies could reduce the monthly cost by up to 50%.
A new oral medication containing semaglutide, the same active ingredient found in the popular Wegovy injection, is expected to become available in Israeli pharmacies on Wednesday, October 28. The daily pill, which aims to aid weight loss by mimicking the GLP-1 hormone to reduce appetite and increase satiety, will cost between 640 and 1,260 shekels per month, depending on the dosage. This information is based on a report by Yoav Even on N12, as no official confirmation from the Ministry of Health or the manufacturer in Israel has been found.
The oral semaglutide is designed for long-term treatment of obesity, alongside a reduced-calorie diet and physical activity. It is approved in the US for adults with obesity or overweight individuals with a weight-related medical condition. The drug works by slowing stomach emptying and reducing hunger, but it does not eliminate potential side effects, which are similar to those experienced with the injectable form. These can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and abdominal pain, with warnings also noting risks of pancreatitis, gallbladder problems, and dehydration.
Clinical studies have shown significant weight loss with oral semaglutide. The OASIS 4 study, for instance, reported an average weight loss of 13.6% after 64 weeks for participants taking the 25mg dose, compared to 2.2% in the placebo group. Another analysis, assuming full adherence to treatment, suggested a 16.6% weight reduction. However, the article cautions that these figures are based on specific study conditions and should not be presented as a guarantee for all patients, as individual responses vary.
While the oral form offers an alternative for those who dislike injections, it requires a daily morning routine of taking the pill on an empty stomach, waiting at least 30 minutes before eating or drinking. The dosage gradually increases, and it is crucial not to convert injection dosages to pill dosages independently. The effectiveness of the oral pill compared to injections is complex and depends on various factors, including dosage and study population, rather than just the method of administration.
If Israeli health funds eventually subsidize the medication, the monthly cost could potentially decrease by up to 50%. The drug is not recommended for use during pregnancy, and a two-month gap is advised before planned conception.
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