The European Commission has approved the marketing of the drug Wegovy, developed by Danish pharmaceutical company Novo Nordisk, for the treatment of obesity and overweight in adults.
The medication is indicated for individuals with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30 or higher, or over 27 with at least one associated comorbidity, such as diabetes, hypertension, or sleep apnea. Wegovy acts on brain receptors that control appetite, increasing satiety and reducing food cravings, serving as a supplement to diet and physical exercise.
Clinical trials showed an average weight loss of approximately 17% with daily intake of the medication, compared to 3% in a placebo group. The European approval follows a positive opinion from the European Medicines Agency and represents a new therapeutic option, especially for those who prefer oral administration over weekly injections. The drug requires a prescription and is expected to reach the European market later this year.
