The Top Line The battle of the obesity drug heavyweights
Aug 15, 2025
Fraiser Kansteiner, a journalist from Fierce Pharma, joins to unravel the fierce competition between Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly in the obesity drug market. They discuss Novo's challenges, including product shortages and a recent pipeline clearout. Kansteiner highlights Lilly’s successful strategies amidst increasing sales and the implications of compounding pharmacies. The conversation also touches on Pfizer's exit from the obesity race and the potential emergence of smaller biotech firms, painting a vivid picture of the evolving landscape.
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Momentum Can Shift Quickly
- Novo Nordisk's market lead isn't guaranteed despite early approvals and strong sales.
- The company now faces simultaneous pressure from Eli Lilly, compounding pharmacies, and investor expectations.
Growth Can Still Be Perceived As Slow
- Novo's diabetes and obesity sales grew but failed to meet analysts' high expectations.
- The company described the period as a 'sharp slowdown' despite continuing revenue increases.
Guidance Revised Downward
- Novo expects slower Zempic and Wegovi growth to continue through 2025.
- The company revised down full-year sales guidance significantly from prior forecasts.