Emirates Pharmaceutical Company adopts oral “Wejovi” to reduce weight and reduce heart risks

The Emirates Medicines Corporation announced the approval of Novo Nordisk’s drug “Wejovi” (semaglutide) as a once-daily oral treatment for long-term weight management in adults with obesity or overweight associated with comorbid health conditions..

The drug is classified within the class of receptor antagonists GLP-1It works to lose weight and maintain its results when used in conjunction with a low-calorie diet and increased physical activity, which contributes to improving health outcomes for target groups..

Clinical data have shown that the treatment can reduce the risk of major cardiovascular events in high-risk patients, including cardiovascular death, heart attacks and strokes.

The UAE is the second country in the world to adopt this drug, in a step that reflects its leadership in adopting modern therapeutic innovations and providing early access to them..

In this context, Dr. Fatima Al Kaabi, Director General of the Emirates Drug Corporation, confirmed that the adoption of the oral formulation of the drug “Wejovi” (semaglutide) reflects the Foundation’s role in developing the pharmaceutical system and promoting a proactive approach in dealing with the challenges of obesity and overweight, as they are among the most prominent factors associated with chronic diseases, in addition to supporting the evaluation and approval of modern treatments according to approved scientific standards.

She added: “This step embodies the UAE’s commitment to adopting the latest pharmaceutical innovations and developing a flexible regulatory environment that ensures that these treatments reach patients according to the highest standards, which contributes to improving therapeutic results and quality of care.”“

Regulatory approval was based on the results of clinical studies that demonstrated the effectiveness of the drug in supporting weight loss and maintaining it when used within a healthy lifestyle, in addition to its role in reducing the risk of major cardiovascular events in vulnerable groups..

This accreditation reflects the UAE’s trend towards enhancing health awareness of the importance of early management of obesity and reducing its health complications.

Venkat Kalyan, General Manager of Novo Nordisk Gulf, said: “The cooperation with the Emirates Drug Corporation reflects a shared commitment to providing innovative and reliable therapeutic solutions.”

Kalyan pointed out that “semaglutide” has a well-established safety record and widespread confidence in the medical community, and that providing it in a daily oral form enhances ease of use and supports patients’ adherence to treatment.