Pfizer buys back into obesity drug chase with $4.9B Metsera deal

Group 1 - Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly lead the obesity drug market with Wegovy and Zepbound, each generating nearly $6 billion in sales in the first half of 2025 [3] - The obesity medicine market is projected to exceed $100 billion in annual sales within five years, driven by high demand and prevalence of obesity [4] - Pfizer has faced challenges with its internal candidates for obesity drugs, leading to speculation about acquisitions to strengthen its position [5] Group 2 - Pfizer plans to acquire Metsera for $4.9 billion, with potential additional payments based on development milestones [7] - Metsera has developed a portfolio of "incretin" drugs, including a monthly GLP-1 stimulating agent and a gut hormone mimetic [6] - The acquisition is seen as a strategic move for Pfizer to regain leadership in the obesity drug market after previous setbacks [7]