NEW YORK, Aug. 31, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- WHY: Rosen Law Firm, a global investor rights law firm, reminds purchasers of securities of Novo Nordisk A/S (NYSE: NVO) between May 7, 2025 and July 28, 2025, both dates inclusive (the “Class Period”), of the important September 30, 2025 lead plaintiff deadline. SO WHAT: If you purchased Novo Nordisk securities during the Class Period you may be entitled to compensation without payment of any out of pocket fees or costs through a contingency fee arrangement. WHA ...

Group 1 - Novo Nordisk's Wegovy shows significant advantages in reducing the risk of severe cardiovascular events, with a 57% reduction in risk compared to Eli Lilly's Zepbound [1] - The STEER study, based on data from over 20,000 cardiovascular disease patients aged 45 and above, confirms the cardiovascular benefits of GLP-1 drugs for non-diabetic obese patients [1] - The average follow-up period for the Wegovy group was 8.3 months, while the Zepbound group had 8.6 months, indicating sustained effects of the drugs in real-world applications [1] Group 2 - Wegovy is approved in the US and EU not only for obesity treatment but also for reducing the risk of major cardiovascular events in overweight or obese adults with cardiovascular disease [2] - The study data may further solidify Wegovy's leading position in the GLP-1 weight loss drug market and provide new treatment options for millions of obese patients with cardiovascular disease globally [2]

Core Insights - Novo Nordisk presented data from the STEER real-world study at the ESC Congress 2025, highlighting the cardiovascular benefits of Wegovy (semaglutide 2.4 mg) compared to tirzepatide in patients with obesity and established cardiovascular disease (CVD) without diabetes [1][4]. Group 1: Study Findings - Wegovy demonstrated a significant 57% greater risk reduction for major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) such as heart attack, stroke, and cardiovascular-related death compared to tirzepatide in patients without treatment gaps exceeding 30 days [2][8]. - In all treated individuals, Wegovy showed a 29% risk reduction for heart attack, stroke, and death from any cause compared to tirzepatide over an average follow-up of 8.3 months for Wegovy and 8.6 months for tirzepatide [3][8]. - The STEER study adds to the evidence that the heart-protective benefits of Wegovy are specific to the semaglutide molecule and not applicable to other GLP-1 or GIP/GLP-1-based treatments [8]. Group 2: Study Design and Population - The STEER study was a retrospective, observational study evaluating the efficacy of Wegovy versus tirzepatide for preventing MACE in US adults aged 45 and older with overweight or obesity and established CVD without prior diabetes [6][7]. - The study included 10,625 individuals in each treatment group, with researchers using propensity score matching to ensure comparability between Wegovy and tirzepatide users [7]. Group 3: Context of Cardiovascular Disease and Obesity - Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of disability and death globally, with nearly 21 million deaths annually. Obesity significantly contributes to cardiovascular morbidity and mortality [5]. - Despite a decrease in overall cardiovascular mortality over the past two decades, obesity-related cardiovascular deaths have risen, with two-thirds of such deaths linked to CVD [5].

Core Insights - Novo Nordisk presented data from the STEER study, showing that Wegovy® (semaglutide 2.4 mg) significantly reduces the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) compared to tirzepatide in patients with obesity and established cardiovascular disease (CVD) without diabetes [1][3][4] Group 1: Study Findings - Wegovy® demonstrated a 57% greater risk reduction for heart attack, stroke, and cardiovascular-related death in patients who adhered to treatment compared to tirzepatide, with 0.1% of events recorded for Wegovy® and 0.4% for tirzepatide [1][3] - In all treated individuals, regardless of treatment gaps, Wegovy® showed a 29% risk reduction for heart attack, stroke, and death from any cause compared to tirzepatide [1][3] - The STEER study adds to the evidence that the cardiovascular benefits of Wegovy® are specific to the semaglutide molecule and not applicable to other GLP-1 or GIP/GLP-1-based treatments [3] Group 2: Study Design and Population - The STEER study was a retrospective, observational study evaluating the efficacy of Wegovy® versus tirzepatide for preventing MACE in US adults aged 45 and older with obesity and established CVD without prior diabetes [2][4] - The study included 10,625 participants in each treatment group, with propensity score matching used to ensure comparability between Wegovy® and tirzepatide users [2][4] Group 3: Context of Obesity and CVD - Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death globally, with nearly 21 million deaths annually, and obesity significantly contributes to cardiovascular morbidity and mortality [2] - Despite a decrease in overall cardiovascular mortality, obesity-related cardiovascular deaths have risen, with two-thirds of such deaths linked to CVD [2]

Core Viewpoint - Recent clinical results have led to new considerations regarding the prospects of oral weight loss medications, with concerns raised about their effectiveness compared to injectable formulations [4][5]. Injectable Drugs Remain Dominant - By 2030, oral therapies are expected to capture about 25% of the global anti-obesity drug market, but injectable peptides are likely to maintain dominance in the U.S. market due to patient and physician preferences for maximum weight loss [5]. - William Blair predicts that 80-90% of Viking's VK2735 revenue will come from subcutaneous injections, with oral formulations contributing relatively little [5]. Advantages of Oral Small Molecules - In developing countries with inadequate infrastructure, oral small molecules may have advantages as they do not require cold chain storage, making them easier to distribute and consume [6]. Clinical Results and Benchmark Discrepancies - Novo Nordisk's Wegovy (semaglutide injection) has set a benchmark for weight loss at 12-13% placebo-adjusted weight loss, while Eli Lilly's orforglipron only achieved 9.1% after 72 weeks, leading to a significant stock price drop [7][10]. - VK2735 showed a 10.9% placebo-adjusted weight loss in 13 weeks, but high patient dropout rates raise concerns about tolerability [10]. Competition Between Small Molecules and Peptides - Key candidates include Novo Nordisk's high-dose oral semaglutide, Eli Lilly's orforglipron, and Viking's oral VK2735, with differences in manufacturing, storage, and usage impacting market performance [11]. - Novo Nordisk's high-dose oral semaglutide demonstrated an average weight loss of 16.6%, maintaining strong market interest [11]. Data Interpretation and Trial Duration Differences - Analysts caution against direct comparisons between trials due to varying durations; VK2735's data covers only 13 weeks, while others span longer periods [12]. - Early data should not be directly compared to long-term results, as weight loss efficacy often stabilizes after 30 weeks [12]. Market Dynamics and Future Competition - The industry is closely monitoring whether oral therapies can truly change market dynamics, with Novo Nordisk leading in efficacy and supply capabilities [14]. - Eli Lilly plans to submit a registration application for orforglipron within the year, while Viking is exploring further development paths [14]. Conclusion - The emergence of oral weight loss medications adds a new dimension to the anti-obesity market, but injectable formulations remain the core choice in developed markets [15]. - The ultimate market dynamics will depend on efficacy, tolerability, and patient adherence as more competitors enter the field [15].

Core Viewpoint - Replicate Bioscience has entered a long-term strategic partnership with Novo Nordisk to explore the potential applications of self-replicating RNA (srRNA) in infectious diseases, immunotherapy, and metabolic diseases, focusing on developing innovative drug candidates for obesity, type 2 diabetes, and related chronic conditions [2][3]. Group 1: Partnership Details - The collaboration will leverage Novo Nordisk's research and clinical expertise in cardiovascular metabolism alongside Replicate's unique srRNA platform to develop new therapies [2]. - Novo Nordisk will gain exclusive global rights to use Replicate's srRNA platform for project advancement and commercialization, while Replicate will receive upfront funding and may earn up to $550 million in total payments, including upfront cash and milestone rewards [2][3]. Group 2: Technology and Innovation - Replicate's srRNA technology allows for flexible protein expression patterns, enabling more efficient and sustained protein production compared to traditional RNA drugs, which require significant synthetic materials for adequate protein yield [3]. - The self-replicating nature of srRNA means that minimal synthetic material can achieve sufficient expression levels, presenting new possibilities for addressing complex diseases [3]. Group 3: Current Projects - Replicate is advancing key projects focused on srRNA drugs targeting IL-1 receptor agonists and IL-18 binding proteins, aiming to dual-block cytokine signaling pathways activated by inflammasomes, which are closely related to chronic inflammatory bowel disease, gout, and recurrent pericarditis [5].

Economic Growth Forecast - Denmark is cutting its forecast for 2025 economic growth by more than half [1] - The cut is due to weaker prospects for pharmaceutical giant Novo Nordisk [1]

Core Viewpoint - Rosen Law Firm is reminding investors who purchased Novo Nordisk A/S securities between May 7, 2025, and July 28, 2025, of the September 30, 2025, deadline to become lead plaintiffs in a class action lawsuit [1]. Group 1: Class Action Details - Investors who bought Novo Nordisk securities during the specified period may be entitled to compensation without any out-of-pocket fees through a contingency fee arrangement [1]. - A class action lawsuit has already been filed, and those wishing to serve as lead plaintiffs must act by September 30, 2025 [2]. - The lawsuit alleges that Novo Nordisk provided misleading statements about its growth potential while concealing material adverse facts [4]. Group 2: Legal Representation - Investors are encouraged to select qualified legal counsel with a proven track record in securities class actions, as many firms may not have the necessary experience or resources [3]. - Rosen Law Firm has a history of successful settlements, including the largest securities class action settlement against a Chinese company at the time, and has recovered hundreds of millions for investors [3]. Group 3: Allegations Against Novo Nordisk - The lawsuit claims that Novo Nordisk overstated its growth potential and the likelihood of patients switching to its branded alternatives, leading to investor damages when the true information was revealed [4].

Core Insights - Novo Nordisk's Wegovy has been approved as a second treatment for metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH), marking a significant advancement in addressing a condition with a large patient population and unmet medical needs [1] - A recent study indicates that while initial awareness of Wegovy's approval is modest, there is strong confidence among physicians regarding its potential role in MASH treatment, with 65% planning to prescribe it within three months [2] Market Context - Wegovy enters a competitive market led by Madrigal Pharmaceuticals' Rezdiffra, the first FDA-approved therapy for MASH, which has established a strong adoption base among specialists [3] - The study highlights distinct treatment preferences among physicians, with Wegovy preferred for moderate fibrosis (F2) patients due to its weight loss benefits, while combination therapy with Rezdiffra is favored for advanced fibrosis (F3) patients [4] Physician Insights - For F2 patients, 43% of physicians prefer Wegovy monotherapy, citing its effectiveness in reducing liver fat and fibrosis, while 30% prefer Rezdiffra for its antifibrotic properties [4] - In the case of F3 patients, 43% of physicians advocate for a combination of Rezdiffra and Wegovy, reflecting skepticism about the adequacy of monotherapy for this high-risk group [4] Future Monitoring - The positive early prescribing intent and clear positioning of Wegovy across patient segments suggest it will significantly impact MASH care, with ongoing monitoring of prescriber sentiment and treatment strategies planned by Spherix Global Insights [4]

Core Insights - Novo Nordisk (NVO) and Viking Therapeutics (VKTX) are significant players in the obesity treatment market, with NVO being a market leader in the GLP-1 segment and VKTX developing a promising investigational drug [1][2][3] Group 1: Novo Nordisk (NVO) - NVO holds a 51.9% value market share in the GLP-1 segment as of Q2 2025, with a broad diabetes portfolio [4] - Wegovy, a key product for NVO, generated $5.41 billion (DKK 36.9 billion) in sales during the first half of 2025, but is facing slower-than-expected uptake in the U.S. due to illegal compounded versions [5] - NVO is expanding the indications for semaglutide, with Wegovy now approved for cardiovascular and osteoarthritis benefits, and an FDA decision on oral Wegovy expected by year-end [6] - The company is advancing its obesity pipeline, including the CagriSema program and partnerships to develop new treatments, while also diversifying into rare diseases [7][8] - NVO's recent leadership change, with a new CEO appointed on August 7, 2025, comes amid market headwinds and a stock decline since mid-2024 [9][10] - NVO cut its 2025 guidance due to slower uptake of Wegovy and Ozempic, alongside competition from Eli Lilly [10][11] Group 2: Viking Therapeutics (VKTX) - VKTX is a clinical-stage biotech firm with its investigational drug VK2735 showing potential for significant weight loss in early studies [2][12] - Despite demonstrating up to 12.2% weight loss in patients, VKTX's stock suffered after mixed results from a mid-stage study raised safety and tolerability concerns [13][14] - VKTX plans to file for an investigational new drug application for a new obesity treatment and is focusing on its obesity pipeline while exploring collaborations for other candidates [15][16] - VKTX has a strong cash position of $808 million as of June 2025, with no debt, providing financial flexibility to advance its programs [28] - VKTX's stock is trading at a lower price/book ratio compared to NVO, making it a more compelling valuation option [24][29] Group 3: Market Comparison - Both NVO and VKTX have faced stock declines of approximately 35.7% and 35.3% year-to-date, respectively, while the industry has gained 2.3% [22] - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for NVO implies a year-over-year increase of around 15% in sales and 17% in earnings per share for 2025, while VKTX is expected to widen its loss per share by 146% [17][20] - NVO is rated as a Zacks Rank 5 (Strong Sell) and VKTX as a Zacks Rank 4 (Sell), reflecting execution risks and limited near-term catalysts for both companies [26][27]