The Food and Drug Administration approved a higher dose version of the weight loss drug Wegovy on Thursday, according to manufacturer Novo Nordisk.

The new formulation increases the semaglutide injection dosage to 7.2 mg, representing a 4.8 mg increase from existing doses. Novo Nordisk stated the higher dosage is recommended for patients who have already taken lower doses of the medication for at least four weeks.

Wegovy, which uses the active ingredient semaglutide, is part of a class of medications known as GLP-1 receptor agonists that have gained significant popularity for weight management. The drug works by mimicking hormones that regulate blood sugar and slow digestion, leading to reduced appetite and food intake.

The approval comes as Novo Nordisk faces increased competition in the rapidly growing weight loss medication market. Several pharmaceutical companies have developed similar GLP-1 drugs, creating a competitive landscape for market share in what has become a multi-billion dollar sector.

The higher dose option provides physicians with additional flexibility in treating patients who may need stronger medication effects. Clinical trials and regulatory review processes typically evaluate both efficacy and safety profiles before the FDA grants approval for new dosage levels of existing medications.