How much does a box of Semaglutide cost?

Oral semaglutide tablets (Semaglutide) were approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in September 2019 for use as an adjunct to diet and exercise to improve glycemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes. The product is available in 3, 7, and 14 mg tablets, and a second indication application has been submitted to the FDA to reduce major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) in adults with type 2 diabetes and diagnosed cardiovascular disease.

The manufacturer recommends that patients start oral semaglutide tablets at a dose of 3 mg once daily and then increase the dose to 7 mg once daily after 30 days. For patients who require additional blood glucose lowering, after at least 30 days at the 7 mg dose, the dose may be further increased to 14 mg once daily. Although not the first drug of its kind, oral semaglutide tablets are the first orally administered GLP-1 receptor agonist on the market. However, while oral administration may be an advantage for some patients, the need to take the drug on an empty stomach may be a hindrance for others.

Semaglutide tablets have not yet been launched in China. Its injection has been launched in China and is covered by medical insurance, but only eligible patients can be reimbursed.The price of each 3ml tube may be around RMB 1,000. For the original semaglutide tablets sold overseas, the price per box of 3 mg*100 tablets may be around RMB 2,000, the price per box of 7 mg*100 tablets may be over RMB 3,000, and the price per box of 14 mg*100 tablets may be around RMB 4,000 (prices may fluctuate due to exchange rates). There are currently no generic versions of semaglutide on the market.