The Emirates Drug Establishment (EDE) has approved an oral formulation of Wegovy (semaglutide), the GLP-1 receptor agonist developed by Novo Nordisk, for long-term weight management in adults with obesity or overweight linked to related medical conditions. The UAE is only the second country globally to authorise the treatment.
The approval covers use alongside a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity, and extends to cardiovascular risk reduction. Clinical data showed the drug can lower the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events in high-risk patients, including heart attacks, strokes, and cardiovascular death.
“Approving the oral formulation of Wegovy® (semaglutide) reaffirms the establishment’s commitment to promoting the pharmaceutical ecosystem and reinforcing a proactive approach to addressing obesity and overweight challenges, which are among the leading factors associated with chronic diseases, while also supporting the evaluation and approval of innovative therapies in line with internationally recognized scientific standards. This move reflects the UAE’s keenness to adopt the latest pharmaceutical innovations and develop a flexible regulatory environment that ensures patient access to these treatments in accordance with the highest standards, further strengthening treatment outcomes and the overall quality of care,” Dr. Fatma Al Kaabi, Director General of the Emirates Drug Establishment said in a statement.
“Our collaboration with the Emirates Drug Establishment is a testament to our shared commitment to providing innovative and trusted treatment solutions,” Venkat Kalyan, General Manager, Novo Nordisk Gulf added.
The EDE based its decision on clinical studies demonstrating effectiveness in weight reduction and long-term maintenance when combined with lifestyle changes, as well as cardiovascular risk data in at-risk populations.
