The launch of Wegovy, a new oral pill for weight loss, in the UAE has sparked significant interest among residents, with pharmacies reporting a surge in demand. This medication, priced between Dh779 and Dh1,610 depending on the prescribed dosage, is attracting a new group of patients who have never sought weight-loss treatment before. The oral format, in particular, is seen as a more appealing alternative to injections, with many preferring tablets over injectables. This shift in preference is evident in the strong demand observed by pharmacies and healthcare providers alike.
The UAE's early adoption of Wegovy is notable, as it becomes the first country outside the United States to offer this treatment. The availability of all four doses (1.5mg, 4mg, 9mg, and 25mg) in various pharmacies across the country has further fueled the interest. Pharmacies like Aster Pharmacy and International Modern Hospital Dubai have reported a noticeable increase in customer inquiries and prescription fulfillments since the launch.
One of the most intriguing aspects of this trend is the number of first-time users showing interest in weight-management treatment. According to Shiraz Khan, chief operating officer of Aster Retail UAE, a significant share of inquiries comes from customers who have never used weight-loss medication before. This suggests that the oral format is successfully attracting those who were previously hesitant to consider injections. Rania Khani, pharmacy manager at International Modern Hospital Dubai, supports this observation, noting that many patients prefer tablets over injections.
The strong demand for Wegovy is also evident in the digital health platform DarDoc's waiting list, which has recorded hundreds of patients since the treatment's availability. The company's CEO, Samer Masri, attributes this to the growing demand for medically supervised weight-management treatments and expanded obesity care options across the UAE. However, the question remains whether the current supply will meet the growing demand. Pharmacies have been advised to secure stocks early due to the strong overall demand, and the trend is expected to continue as awareness and interest in the treatment grow.
In conclusion, the launch of Wegovy in the UAE has opened up new possibilities for weight loss treatment, with the oral format proving to be a popular choice. The strong demand and interest from first-time users indicate a positive shift in the approach to obesity management. As the treatment becomes more widely available, it will be crucial to monitor the long-term impact and ensure that the supply can meet the growing demand, ultimately benefiting the health and well-being of UAE residents.
