Core Insights - Novo Nordisk is expanding access to its weight loss drug Wegovy through telehealth providers Hims & Hers Health, Ro, and Life MD, as supply shortages have eased in the U.S. [1][2] - Hims & Hers shares surged 40% in premarket trading, while Novo Nordisk's stock rose 3% following the announcement [2]. Company Strategies - Novo Nordisk aims to capture more patients by collaborating with telehealth companies, as compounding pharmacies face legal restrictions on producing cheaper, unapproved versions of Wegovy [2][3]. - The partnerships with telehealth providers are designed to create a seamless experience for patients, allowing them to access Wegovy directly from their providers [4]. Pricing and Accessibility - Wegovy will be offered at 499 per month through Novo Nordisk's direct-to-consumer online pharmacy, which is about half of its usual list price for uninsured patients [5]. - Hims & Hers will provide Wegovy starting at 599 per month, which includes additional services such as 24/7 care and nutritional guidance [5][6]. Market Context - Hims & Hers has previously offered compounded versions of semaglutide but is now transitioning to the branded Wegovy due to regulatory changes [9]. - The FDA has set deadlines for compounding pharmacies to cease the production of unapproved versions of semaglutide, impacting the availability of alternatives [10].
Novo Nordisk opens weight loss drug Wegovy to Hims & Hers, Ro and Life MD telehealth