Short Wave GLP-1 Pills Are On The Way. Here's What To Know
19 snips
Dec 19, 2025 
Sydney Lupkin, an NPR Pharmaceuticals correspondent, dives into the buzz surrounding GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic and their potential pill formulations. She explains how these injectables have transformed weight loss therapies and shares insights on the development of oral versions, including Novo Nordisk's semaglutide pill and Eli Lilly's innovative Orforglipron. These new options promise improved access and lower costs, revolutionizing treatment for many. Lupkin also discusses patient preferences for pills over injections, highlighting the evolving landscape of diabetes care.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Celebrity Mentions Sparked Public Interest
- Celebrity use of Ozempic and other GLP-1s made the drugs widely known and sparked public interest.
- High-profile mentions, including Serena Williams, helped normalize telehealth access to GLP-1 injections.
Injectable GLP-1s Changed Weight-Loss Care
- GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy are weekly injectables that have transformed weight-loss treatment for many patients.
- They can be life-changing but are costly and pose insurance-access challenges for many people.
Extended-Action Semaglutide Explained
- The GLP-1 hormone signals fullness but is naturally short-lived in the body.
- Pharmaceutical semaglutide is chemically modified so its half-life extends to about a week, enabling weekly dosing.