Shares of Novo Nordisk experienced a significant downturn on Monday, dropping 6.3% after the company announced the results of its latest clinical trial for the next-generation weight-loss drug, CagriSema. This new treatment, designed for adults grappling with obesity or overweight conditions alongside type 2 diabetes, led to an average weight reduction of 15.7% over 68 weeks.
Investor Reactions and Forecast Adjustments
Previously, Novo Nordisk had projected a potential weight loss of 25% for individuals using CagriSema, raising expectations significantly. In a prior late-stage trial conducted in December, patients taking CagriSema achieved a weight loss average of 22.7%. The disappointing 15.7% finding prompted a sharp decline in the company’s stock, which was down 6.3% by 11:22 a.m. London time.
CagriSema, which combines cagrilintide and semaglutide, is under investigation for its efficacy in both weight loss and as a therapeutic option for type 2 diabetes. Novo Nordisk plans to seek regulatory approval in the first quarter of 2026.
Market Comparisons and Future Outlook
Shares of American competitor Eli Lilly, which produces the weight-loss medication Mounjaro, saw a momentary uptick following Novo Nordisk’s update but later fell by 1.2% by 11:34 a.m. on the same day.
Investors had high hopes for CagriSema to emerge as a next-generation weight-loss solution. The treatment’s phase 3 trial included 1,206 participants whose starting average body weight was around 225 pounds (102 kg).
Despite the immediate negative investor response, Novo Nordisk highlighted the “superior weight loss” results from CagriSema compared to a placebo group, which experienced a mere 3.1% reduction in weight across the same period.
The drug was reported to have a “safe and well-tolerated profile,” with mild to moderate gastrointestinal issues being the most prevalent side effects noted, which tended to diminish over time.
Strategic Developments and Market Position
Last week, Novo Nordisk launched an online platform, Novocare, permitting consumers to directly purchase Wegovy at a promotional rate of $499 per month. The firm’s continued success with weight-loss solutions like Wegovy and Ozempic has elevated Novo Nordisk to one of the most valuable pharmaceutical companies globally.
