Daily weight-loss tablets are widening the race between major drugmakers and bringing the treatments to new patients.
The pills work like the injections by mimicking the appetite hormone GLP-1, but they are easier to take and cheaper to store and distribute.
Analysts believe the global market could reach about $200bn within the next decade.
Novo Nordisk has launched the first oral version of Wegovy in the United States, with strong early demand.
Rival Eli Lilly is preparing its own pill, which may be simpler to absorb and use.
Tablets are expected to attract people who avoid injections and those who cannot afford them.
Patients switching from weekly jabs report steadier appetite control and easier routines.
However, pills currently produce slightly less weight loss than injections and still cause side-effects for some users.
Cost and limited insurance coverage remain major barriers.
Rising global obesity and expanding insurance support are driving rapid growth.
Health economists say cheaper oral drugs could make treatment more viable for public systems.
With several new products in development, the move from injections to pills marks a decisive new phase in the industry.
