Amazon Pharmacy starts offering Novo Nordisk's Wegovy weight-loss pill

Amazon has made headlines by introducing Novo Nordisk's Wegovy weight-loss pill through its digital pharmacy platform. This development marks a significant milestone as Novo Nordisk began distributing an oral version of its once-injectable obesity treatment in the United States, starting at a monthly price of $149 for those paying out-of-pocket. For patients with insurance, the cost can be as low as $25 per month. This launch positions Wegovy at the forefront of the rapidly evolving obesity and diabetes medication market, which has traditionally been dominated by high-priced weekly injections from major pharmaceutical companies like Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly. By making the oral pill available on Amazon, Novo Nordisk is strategically broadening its reach to attract new patients who may prefer a more accessible treatment option. In addition to its Amazon Pharmacy platform, Wegovy will soon be available via prescription vending kiosks located in selected One Medical clinics. This move aligns with Amazon's ambitious expansion into the U.S. healthcare sector, which began with its 2020 launch of Amazon Pharmacy following the acquisition of PillPack for approximately $750 million in 2018. The company further cemented its healthcare footprint with the $3.9 billion purchase of One Medical last year. Amazon is leveraging its strengths in fast delivery and price transparency to draw consumers to its pharmacy service. Currently, nearly half of U.S. consumers can receive same-day prescription deliveries. Although Amazon has not disclosed the number of users on its pharmacy platform, industry analysts anticipate it could generate around $2 billion in annual revenue. In an interesting collaboration, WeightWatchers recently announced a partnership with Amazon Pharmacy to facilitate the delivery of weight-loss medications to its members. Amazon Pharmacy has also teamed up with Eli Lilly to aid in distributing specific prescription medications, including the obesity treatment Zepbound, which can be purchased through the drugmaker's website. Wegovy is now accessible at over 70,000 pharmacies across the U.S., including major chains like CVS and Costco, as well as select telehealth providers such as Ro and GoodRx. Additionally, cash-paying patients can find the starting dose for $149 per month through TrumpRx, a direct-to-consumer website established under a deal with the previous administration. Health experts suggest that the introduction of oral medication could significantly enhance access to obesity treatments, particularly for individuals hesitant about injections. Meanwhile, Eli Lilly is also expected to launch a competing obesity pill pending FDA approval later this year.