Marketplace All-in-One A new era for weight-loss drugs
Dec 23, 2025
In this discussion, Marketplace reporters Nova Sappho and Amy Scott dive into healthcare and economic challenges. Nova highlights the FDA's approval of an oral Wegovy pill, a game-changer for weight-loss drugs that could drive down prices. Amy reveals persistent consumer pessimism as economic pressures weigh heavily on people's minds. Senior economics contributor Chris Farrell examines the troubling rise of long-term unemployment, exploring how hiring trends and AI may exacerbate job search difficulties. Together, they paint a complex picture of health and economic realities.
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Oral Wegovy Could Slash Treatment Costs
- The FDA approved an oral form of Wegovy, making GLP-1 treatment potentially much cheaper than injections.
- Novo Nordisk projects starter pills could cost about $150 a month versus injectables near $1,000 a month.
Cheaper Pills Could Improve Access
- Lower-cost pills may expand access for people whose insurance won't cover expensive injectables for weight loss alone.
- Employer health plans that covered the drugs saw premiums rise as much as 14%, showing insurers' coverage impacts costs.
Consumers Stay Pessimistic Into The New Year
- Consumers remain pessimistic due to high prices and weak job expectations despite a slight uptick in some sentiment measures.
- Bigger tax refunds from recent tax changes could lift mood for wealthier households next year.