Novo Nordisk Launches Wegovy in China, Intensifying Competition in Weight-Loss Market
Novo Nordisk has officially launched its weight-loss drug, Wegovy, in the Chinese market after receiving approval from local health authorities in June. The launch is expected to ramp up competition with Eli Lilly, whose weight-loss treatment, also approved earlier this year, has yet to be introduced in China, the world’s second-largest pharmaceutical market.
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Addressing Obesity in China
With a population of 1.4 billion, China is home to over 180 million individuals living with obesity, making it a key market for weight-loss treatments. Wegovy, priced at 1,400 yuan (£153; $194) for a pack of four injections, is considerably more affordable than its U.S. counterpart, where a month’s supply costs around $1,349. However, Chinese patients will have to pay the full cost out of pocket, as Wegovy is not yet covered by the country’s national healthcare insurance system.
Mechanism and Benefits of Wegovy
Wegovy, which contains semaglutide, an active ingredient that regulates blood sugar and suppresses appetite, is targeted at people with severe obesity. It promotes feelings of fullness and helps patients lose more than 10% of their body weight, according to research. Semaglutide is also the active component of Ozempic, a Novo Nordisk drug used to manage type 2 diabetes. Despite its benefits, some users may experience side effects like nausea and vomiting, and studies suggest that weight may be regained once treatment is stopped.
Global Popularity and Challenges
Wegovy’s success in the United States, where it became available in 2021, has made it a widely sought-after drug, fueled by social media buzz and celebrity endorsements, including from Elon Musk. In the UK, the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency has issued guidance for doctors to monitor patients for potential misuse of weight-loss injections like Wegovy, after reports of non-obese individuals suffering ill effects.
The drug’s widespread popularity has contributed to Novo Nordisk becoming Europe’s most valuable company, with a market valuation exceeding $440 billion. The company’s expansion into China is expected to strengthen its dominance in the global weight-loss treatment market.
