Daily GLP-1 tablets are accelerating the race for the obesity market.
They remove the need for injections and attract new patients.
Analysts expect the sector to approach $200bn in value within the decade.
Novo Nordisk launched the first oral Wegovy in the US in December.
Prescriptions climbed rapidly and outpaced earlier injectable launches.
Patients say pills are easier to take and provide steady appetite control.
Lower prices and no refrigeration also increase their appeal.
Rival Eli Lilly is preparing its own tablet, orforglipron.
Unlike Novo’s drug, it does not require fasting before use.
More biotech firms and AstraZeneca are developing competing treatments.
Injections still produce greater weight loss in trials.
People with severe obesity are likely to remain on jabs.
Tablets will mainly draw new users who were reluctant to start treatment.
Rising global obesity and expanding insurance coverage are driving demand.
Researchers say most eligible patients still receive no medication.
The shift from weekly injections to daily pills marks a decisive new stage for the industry.
