Hua Xia Shi Bao·2025-06-26 05:53Core Insights - The article discusses the emergence of Ecnoglutide, a new GLP-1 receptor agonist developed by a team led by Professor Ji Linong from Peking University People's Hospital, which poses a challenge to the market dominance of Novo Nordisk's Semaglutide in the weight loss drug sector [1][4]. Company Developments - Ecnoglutide has shown impressive results in its Phase III clinical trial (SLIMMER), with over 92.8% of participants achieving effective weight loss and an average weight reduction of 15.1% over 48 weeks [3][4]. - The trial involved 664 participants across 36 centers in China, making it the largest sample size for a weight loss drug trial in the country [3]. - The drug has entered the market application stage, indicating a potential for commercialization soon [4]. Market Landscape - The global GLP-1 weight loss drug market is projected to exceed $150 billion by 2025, with Novo Nordisk's Semaglutide leading the market, generating $8 billion in Q1 2025, a 31% year-on-year increase [5]. - Other companies, including Hengrui Medicine, East China Pharmaceutical, and others, are actively developing weight loss drugs, with some products already in Phase II or III clinical trials [2][6]. Competitive Dynamics - Ecnoglutide's clinical trial results suggest a significant competitive edge over existing products, with a higher effective weight loss rate compared to similar drugs [3][4]. - The article highlights the potential for domestic companies to challenge established players like Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly, as several innovative drugs are in advanced clinical stages [6]. Future Outlook - The article emphasizes the commercial opportunity for domestic alternatives in the weight loss drug market, especially as imported drugs have already cultivated market demand [7].