The need for subcutaneous injection of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) has been a barrier to the use of these drugs for some people with type 2 diabetes (T2D) and the healthcare professionals involved in their care.

Oral semaglutide presents an additional option for the management of T2D, which, by removing the injectable barrier, will enable access to the therapeutic benefits of GLP-1RAs to many more people with T2D.

Oral semaglutide could help to address delays in treatment intensification, improve patient adherence and help individuals reach their treatment goals.

The availability of oral semaglutide has been of particular importance in addressing the challenge of virtual diabetes care during the COVID-19 pandemic, circumventing the logistical problems that are often associated with subcutaneous medication administration.