
According to an announcement by the company, WeightWatchers will offer a compounded form of Novo Nordisk’s blockbuster weight-loss medicine Wegovy at an introductory price of $129 as part of its weight-management initiatives.
According to reports, the stock reached its highest closing price in more than two months. During the premarket trading session, shares of WW International increased by an additional 55%.
The company came to this decision in response to the rapidly increasing demand for weight-loss pharmaceuticals such as Wegovy and Zepbound, both having demonstrated the capability of assisting patients in losing up to one-fifth of their total body weight throughout the course of treatment. Because of the shortage of these medications, drug compounders have been able to enter the market and provide alternatives in accordance with the country’s regulations.
It was reported that WeightWatchers would be forming a partnership with a compounding firm that is committed to adhering to the production standards set out by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
In addition to the behavioral and lifestyle coaching that has been linked with the WeightWatchers brand for a long time, members will also benefit from clinical weight control therapy, should they choose it.
“Given the ongoing shortages of branded medications such as Ozempic and Wegovy, WeightWatchers is committed to ensuring our members have access to effective alternatives,” CEO Tara Comonte stated. “With the addition of compounded semaglutide, we are expanding our offering to include a clinical weight management solution that is both accessible and affordable.”
WeightWatcher’s Troubles in Recent Years
- Once among the giants in the weight-loss industry, WeightWatchers has experienced considerable difficulties in recent years.
- As a result of the popularity of Wegovy and other comparable medications manufactured by rivals like Eli Lilly, the need for its conventional dieting services has decreased.
The company’s difficulties were compounded by the prominent departure of Oprah Winfrey, a longstanding spokeswoman and board member.
Winfrey, a representative of WeightWatchers’ philosophy on self-discipline and wellness, disclosed last year her usage of weight-loss pharmaceuticals. She resigned from the board in May 2024 and liquidated her equity in the firm. Her departure caused a 25% decline in WeightWatchers shares in March, highlighting the company’s difficulty in adjusting to evolving trends in weight control.
Last month, former CEO Sima Sistani also announced her departure from the organization.