Marketplace Morning Report A new era for weight-loss drugs
Dec 23, 2025
Nova Safo, a Marketplace reporter specializing in health and business, discusses the FDA's approval of an oral version of Wegovy, potentially revolutionizing weight loss with lower costs. Amy Scott examines consumer sentiment, highlighting worries over high living costs and weak job prospects as households feel the pinch heading into the new year. Meanwhile, Chris Farrell delves into long-term unemployment trends, explaining how the shift to online applications and wage inequality may be lengthening job searches and contributing to a soft labor market.
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Oral GLP-1 Could Shift Pricing Dynamics
- The FDA approved an oral form of Wegovy, which could undercut expensive injectables by being much cheaper to manufacture.
- Novo Nordisk plans starter pricing around $150 a month, potentially expanding access for those whose insurers won't cover injectables.
Access Versus Insurance Cost Trade-Off
- Lower-cost pills may increase access for people denied coverage for weight-loss injectables by insurers.
- Employer plans that did cover GLP-1 injectables saw premiums rise up to 14%, showing broader cost impacts.
Consumers Stay Wary Despite Small Sentiment Gains
- Consumers remain pessimistic due to high living costs and weak job expectations despite slight sentiment improvement.
- Many expect the job market to worsen, which will likely limit discretionary spending into the new year.