Novo Nordisk defends disappointing next-gen obesity drug: 'It will be an important product'

Core Viewpoint - Novo Nordisk defends the disappointing trial results of its obesity drug candidate CagriSema, asserting its potential as an important weight loss treatment despite underwhelming performance in clinical trials [1][2]. Company Summary - CEO Lars Fruergaard Jørgensen acknowledged the negative impact on share price following two late-stage trials that showed lower-than-expected weight reduction results, yet expressed confidence in CagriSema's weight loss profile [2][5]. - CagriSema, a combination of cagrilintide and semaglutide, demonstrated a weight loss of 15.7% over 68 weeks in patients with type 2 diabetes, compared to 3.1% with placebo, which fell short of the high-teens percentage previously forecast [3][4]. - A prior trial indicated a 22.7% weight loss in obese patients without type 2 diabetes, also below the expected 25% [4][7]. - The company's stock has declined over 50% from its 2024 highs due to investor disappointment regarding the drug's performance compared to existing treatments like Wegovy and Eli Lilly's Zepbound [5]. Industry Summary - Shareholders have called for clearer trial designs and targets to mitigate drastic share price fluctuations, with the CEO acknowledging the need for better communication regarding trial designs [6]. - The weight-loss industry is experiencing skepticism regarding the differentiation of obesity drugs, as noted by BofA Global Research, which has become more cautious following CagriSema's results [8]. - Analysts emphasize the necessity for a diverse range of treatments to address obesity and related health risks, highlighting the significant market opportunity for various products catering to different patient needs [9].