Pharma Pulse: Wegovy Wins Accelerated Approval, New Flu Combo Emerges, and Community Pharmacies Expand Access

Welcome to Pharma Pulse, a Pharmaceutical Commerce podcast where we bring you the latest insights shaping patient access, supply chain/logistics, data & tech, and healthcare innovation. I’m your host, and today we’re looking at a major regulatory milestone for Novo Nordisk, a promising new antiviral combination for influenza, and the growing role of community pharmacies in expanding healthcare access.

• Novo Nordisk’s stock surged following the FDA’s accelerated approval of Wegovy for reducing the risk of progression in metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH) with liver fibrosis. Already a blockbuster in weight management, Wegovy’s new indication broadens its clinical and commercial potential. Analysts say the approval positions the drug as a leading therapy not just for obesity but also for metabolic and liver disease, further strengthening Novo’s foothold in the GLP-1 space.
• In other news, researchers have reported encouraging results from a novel drug combination that appears effective against drug-resistant influenza strains. With seasonal flu remaining a major global health challenge—and resistant strains reducing the effectiveness of existing antivirals—this approach could represent an important advance in preparedness. While still early, the findings suggest potential for a broader, more durable line of defense against severe influenza outbreaks.
• Lastly, community pharmacies are increasingly stepping up as frontline healthcare access points, particularly in underserved areas. Beyond dispensing prescriptions, many are now offering vaccinations, point-of-care testing, and chronic disease support. This expanded role not only eases pressure on overextended health systems but also helps improve patient adherence and engagement by delivering care in familiar, convenient settings.

From new regulatory wins and therapeutic innovation to community-based solutions, these stories highlight the multiple ways pharma and healthcare are evolving to meet patient needs.

That’s it for this episode of Pharma Pulse. For more insights on trends transforming pharmaceutical access and care delivery, visit pharmaceuticalcommerce.com.

Thanks for listening—until next time, stay well and stay informed.

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