Novo Nordisk’s Obesity Drug Trial Shows 19% Weight Loss, Intensifies Competition with Eli Lilly

Novo Nordisk's latest clinical trial results for its obesity treatment demonstrate a 19% average weight loss at higher doses, though still trailing Eli Lilly's competing drug. The Danish pharmaceutical giant's shares ROSE nearly 2% following the announcement, signaling investor confidence in its position within the lucrative weight management market.

The study tested semaglutide at 7.2mg—triple the currently approved dose—showing improved efficacy over the standard 2.4mg regimen. While these results strengthen Novo's market position, Eli Lilly maintains a slight edge with its tirzepatide-based treatments achieving up to 22.5% weight reduction.

The obesity drug market continues to attract significant investment as pharmaceutical companies vie for dominance in this high-growth sector. Both Novo's Wegovy and Lilly's Zepbound represent cutting-edge treatments in a space where even single-digit percentage improvements in efficacy can translate to billions in revenue.