FDA Clears Higher-Dose Wegovy to Boost Weight Loss

The FDA approved Wegovy HD, a 7.2 mg weekly dose of semaglutide, a higher-dose version expected to boost weight loss. In trials, the higher dose yielded about 19% body-weight loss (roughly 47 lb) vs 16% (about 39 lb) with the 2.4 mg dose over about 17 months; the drug will be available in April with price to be announced. European regulators had approved it earlier. Side effects were common (GI issues in 70%+; 23% reported skin sensations) and serious adverse events occurred in ~7% of the higher-dose group. The jump from 2.4 mg to 7.2 mg is substantial, and real-world safety will need monitoring. An oral Wegovy pill was approved by the FDA in December for context.