Novo Nordisk, a leading pharmaceutical company, is expecting approval for its weight-loss drug, Wegovy, in China this year. The company plans to launch the product in the massive Asian market, but with capped volumes. This announcement was made by Christine Zhou Xiaping, the head of Novo Nordisk’s China division, during an investors meeting in Copenhagen.
Wegovy, also known as semaglutide, belongs to a class of drugs called GLP-1s, which are commonly used to treat obesity and diabetes. Novo Nordisk already markets a version of semaglutide for diabetes under the brand name Ozempic. The launch of Wegovy in China will initially focus on patients who are willing to pay out-of-pocket for the drug.
According to Reuters, Xiaping mentioned that several drugmakers have filed applications to conduct clinical trials for generic versions of GLP-1 drugs. However, it is unlikely that any of these generic versions will be approved before 2028. It is worth noting that Wegovy’s patent in China is set to expire in 2026.
Novo Nordisk faces competition in the GLP-1 drug market, with Eli Lilly being its main competitor. Eli Lilly markets the diabetes drug Mounjaro and the weight loss drug Zepbound. Additionally, other companies such as AstraZeneca, Amgen, Pfizer, Viking Therapeutics, Tern Pharmaceuticals, and Structure Therapeutics are also developing GLP-1 drugs.
The approval of Wegovy in China is a significant milestone for Novo Nordisk. With China’s growing population and increasing concerns about obesity and diabetes, there is a high demand for effective weight-loss treatments. Wegovy has shown promising results in clinical trials, leading to weight loss and improved metabolic health in patients.
Novo Nordisk’s decision to launch Wegovy with capped volumes indicates a cautious approach to entering the Chinese market. By initially targeting patients who are willing to pay out-of-pocket, the company can assess the drug’s reception and gather valuable feedback before expanding its availability.
The expiration of Wegovy’s patent in 2026 and the potential entry of generic versions in the future pose challenges for Novo Nordisk. However, the company’s strong brand reputation and established presence in the diabetes market give it a competitive advantage.
Overall, Novo Nordisk’s expectation of approval for Wegovy in China is a positive development for both the company and individuals struggling with obesity and diabetes. The launch of this weight-loss drug has the potential to make a significant impact on public health in China and contribute to Novo Nordisk’s continued success in the pharmaceutical industry.
