WeightWatchers soared Tuesday after the company said it was getting into the prescription drug weight loss business with the acquisition of Sequence.

Sequence, a telehealth operator, says that its specialists can prescribe medications under brand names including Ozempic, Wegovy and Trulicity.

Shares of WW International Inc. jumped nearly 29% at the opening bell.

WeightWatchers offers subscribers meal plans with the goal of losing excess weight. With the acquisition of Sequence, the company is tapping into a red-hot market for prescription drugs that addresses obesity, and broadening what it offers to customers.

91裸聊视频淚t is our responsibility, as the trusted leader in weight management, to support those interested in exploring if medications are right for them,91裸聊视频� said CEO Sima Sistani said in a prepared statement late Monday.

Ozempic, also known as semaglutide, works by stimulating the body91裸聊视频檚 own insulin production and reducing appetite. While it is prescribed for diabetes, Ozempic can also help people lose weight.

If it91裸聊视频檚 not treated, obesity can lead to lifelong health problems, including high blood pressure, diabetes and depression.

91裸聊视频淭his deal brings access to prescription drug solutions for weight loss to WW91裸聊视频檚 historical focus on behavior modification model,91裸聊视频� wrote UBS analyst Michael Lasser. 91裸聊视频淭his is a significant change in the business. While the deal could bring considerable upside, it also carries sizable risks,91裸聊视频�

Lasser said that WW91裸聊视频檚 business has been disrupted over the last several years and is now trying to take big steps to course correct. 91裸聊视频淲e think it will take time to see if this action really produces a change in the company91裸聊视频檚 fortunes,91裸聊视频� he said.

WW International, Based in New York City, will pay $106 million for Sequence, which served about 24,000 members across the U.S. as of February, with annual revenue of about $25 million.

The acquisition is expected to close in the fiscal second quarter.

By Michelle Chapman

THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

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