Hims & Hers Unveils $49 Semaglutide Pill, Novo Nordisk Threatens Legal Action
Hims & Hers Health launched a compounded semaglutide pill identical to Wegovy’s active ingredient with an introductory offer of $49 for the first month. Novo Nordisk has threatened legal and regulatory action, and FDA comments on cracking down on unapproved copycat drugs sent HIMS shares down 2.39%.
1. Product Launch Details
Hims & Hers introduced a compounded semaglutide pill containing the same active ingredient as Novo Nordisk’s Wegovy. Eligible customers can subscribe to the treatment plan with an introductory price of $49 for the first month, undercutting branded GLP-1 therapies.
2. Novo Nordisk’s Legal Threat
Novo Nordisk issued a statement warning that Hims & Hers’ mass-market compounding of an unapproved semaglutide pill is illegal and poses patient safety risks. The company announced plans to pursue legal and regulatory remedies to prevent distribution of the knockoff product.
3. FDA Crackdown Warning
FDA commissioner Marty Makary posted that the agency will take swift action against companies marketing unapproved copycat drugs without verified safety or efficacy. Although unnamed, this warning underscored regulatory headwinds for Hims’ new offering.
4. Stock Market Reaction
Following the launch and ensuing legal and regulatory threats, HIMS shares dropped 2.39% on the day. The decline reflects investor concern over potential litigation costs and regulatory intervention affecting Hims & Hers’ weight-loss division.