Looking To Shed Some Pounds? WeightWatchers To Offer Weight-Loss Drugs Like Ozempic

WW International Inc WW, formerly known as “WeightWatchers” announced Monday in its earnings call that the company is acquiring Sequence, a telehealth company that can prescribe weight-loss drugs like Ozempic, Wegovy and Trulicity. 

Shares of WW were trading up more than 40% Tuesday afternoon on the news. 

“It is our responsibility, as the trusted leader in weight management, to support those interested in exploring if medications are right for them,” said CEO Sima Sistani said in a statement.

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Ozempic is a drug designed to help people with diabetes manage their weight, but works for patients who do not have diabetes as well. However, the drug manufacturer, Norvo Nodisk NVO has said that the drug is not designed for weight loss specifically. 

Norvo Nordisk also outlined some potentially serious side effects of the drug, including tumors and certain types of cancer. With that said, obesity is the second-leading cause of preventable deaths in the United States according to the CDC, so it’s clear to see why there is a huge demand for drugs that can help people lose weight. 

WW will pay around $106 million to acquire Sequence. WW also said that the deal is expected to close in the second quarter of 2023. Although, because of uncertainty regarding the Sequence deal, WW did not offer guidance. 

According to the CDC, obesity-related healthcare costs reached more than $170 billion in 2019. Despite the potentially severe side effects, drugs like Ozempic, Wegovy and Trulicity have the potential to lessen healthcare costs and allow people to lead healthier lives.

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