GLP-1 monthly price reductions; promising non-opioid pain medication; combination of exercise and healthy eating ‘best protection’ against heart diseases in women – Morning Medical Update

Novo Nordisk cuts Wegovy price, launches direct-to-patient pharmacy

Novo Nordisk has lowered the monthly price of Wegovy (semaglutide) to $499 for cash-paying patients without insurance — a 23% reduction from $650 — effective immediately. The move follows Eli Lilly’s price cut for its competing weight-loss drug, Zepbound, which was announced last week.

In addition to the price reduction, Novo Nordisk introduced NovoCare Pharmacy, a direct-to-patient delivery service ensuring access to authentic, U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved Wegovy. The announcement comes as the FDA declares the drug shortage resolved, prompting restrictions on off-brand compounded versions. Read more from The Associated Press.

NIH-funded study develops promising non-opioid pain medication

A research team funded by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) has developed a novel drug, known as VIP36, that effectively targets the cannabinoid receptor type 1 (CB1) for pain relief without the side effects seen in previous treatments. Tested in animal models, VIP36 is designed to stay in the peripheral nervous system, reducing the risk of mood and cognitive changes associated with central nervous system exposure. The findings, funded by the NIH HEAL Initiative, mark a significant step forward in the development of safe, non-addictive pain medications.

Exercise and healthy eating together lower risk of heart disease in women

A new study from the University of Jyväskylä highlights that combining regular physical activity with healthy eating habits provides the strongest protection against cardiovascular disease in postmenopausal women. Researchers found that women with disordered eating behaviors and low physical activity levels had higher amounts of visceral fat and an increased risk of metabolic inflammation — a key factor in cardiovascular disease. Although exercise alone helped reduce visceral fat, its protective effect was weaker in those with eating-related difficulties, emphasizing the importance of both lifestyle factors in preventing cardiovascular risks after menopause.