Novo Nordisk Launches Oral Ozempic for Type 2 Diabetes

Novo Nordisk has announced the U.S. launch of Ozempic® (semaglutide) tablets, marking a significant expansion of its blockbuster diabetes franchise by introducing an oral version of the widely used therapy. The new formulation became available starting May 4 in strengths of 1.5 mg, 4 mg, and 9 mg for adults with type 2 diabetes.

The approval by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration positions Ozempic® tablets as the only oral peptide GLP-1 medication in the United States that not only improves blood sugar control when combined with diet and exercise but also reduces the risk of major cardiovascular events such as heart attack, stroke, or death in high-risk patients.

This development builds on the success of Ozempic® as an injectable therapy, which has been widely prescribed for nearly a decade. By offering both injectable and oral options under the same brand, Novo Nordisk aims to provide greater flexibility in treatment, allowing patients and healthcare providers to choose the formulation that best fits individual needs and lifestyles.

The oral version of semaglutide was previously marketed as Rybelsus®, but has now been reformulated and rebranded under the Ozempic® name to streamline treatment recognition. The company stated that the new tablet formulation maintains the same safety and efficacy profile as earlier versions, while being delivered in a smaller pill.

Ozempic® tablets are manufactured entirely in the United States and will be distributed through more than 70,000 pharmacies nationwide. The drug will also be accessible through Novo Nordisk’s direct-to-patient platform, NovoCare® Pharmacy, as well as select telehealth providers. This is the first time a semaglutide pill has been offered through NovoCare®, reflecting a broader push to expand patient access.

Company executives emphasized that the addition of a pill option addresses a key challenge in diabetes care—treatment adherence. Some patients may prefer oral medications over injections, making it easier to integrate therapy into their daily routines. Medical experts also note that while both oral and injectable GLP-1 therapies are effective, patient preference and lifestyle play a crucial role in long-term disease management.

Pricing and affordability options have also been outlined. For insured patients, costs may be as low as $25 for up to a three-month prescription, depending on coverage. Self-pay patients can access the medication through NovoCare® Pharmacy at tiered monthly prices based on dosage.

The launch reflects decades of research into peptide-based therapies and represents a major scientific milestone: delivering a hormone-mimicking treatment in pill form. Novo Nordisk has also indicated ongoing innovation in this area, with a higher-dose 25 mg version currently under review by the FDA, with a decision expected by the end of 2026.

As diabetes rates continue to rise globally, the introduction of oral Ozempic® could reshape treatment approaches by combining proven efficacy with improved convenience, potentially expanding access and adherence for millions of patients.