StocksMediumUpdatedOriginally published 19 March 2026Updated 19 March 2026
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FDA Approves Novo Nordisk's Higher-Dose Wegovy HD for Weight Loss

Key Facts

1The US FDA approved a new higher dose of Wegovy, Wegovy HD (semaglutide) injection 7.2 mg.
2The STEP UP trial demonstrated an average weight loss of approximately 21% over 72 weeks with the new dose.
3The new dose is indicated for patients who have tolerated the 2.4 mg dosage for at least 4 weeks.

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has officially approved Wegovy HD (semaglutide) 7.2 mg, a new higher-dose injection from Novo Nordisk. This regulatory milestone follows results from the STEP UP clinical trial, which demonstrated an average weight loss of approximately 21% over a 72-week period. The new dosage is specifically indicated for adult patients who have successfully tolerated the existing 2.4 mg maintenance dose for at least four weeks. Clinical data further revealed that nearly one-third of trial participants achieved a weight reduction of up to 25%, setting a new efficacy benchmark in the GLP-1 market. This approval strengthens Novo Nordisk's competitive position against rivals like Eli Lilly in the rapidly expanding obesity treatment sector. Market analysts view this product extension as a significant fundamental catalyst for the company's long-term growth trajectory.