Core Insights - Obesity is a prevalent and complex chronic disease, recognized as a significant risk factor for various chronic metabolic diseases, leading to a growing demand for weight loss treatments [1][2] - The global market for obesity drugs is expanding rapidly, with the overweight obesity drug market projected to reach $17 billion in 2024 and $20.6 billion in 2025, indicating strong growth potential [6][8] Industry Definition and Categories - Obesity is classified as a chronic, multifactorial disease requiring long-term treatment to mitigate obesity-related health risks, with drug therapy being a crucial component of treatment strategies [2][3] - Current obesity treatment drugs fall into three main categories: central weight loss drugs, non-central weight loss drugs, and anti-diabetic drugs with weight loss effects [3] Market Size and Growth - The global overweight obesity drug market is expected to grow from $17 billion in 2024 to $20.6 billion in 2025, with GLP-1 obesity drugs projected to account for $14.7 billion (86.47%) of the market in 2024 and $18.2 billion (88.35%) in 2025 [6][8] Industry Chain - The obesity drug industry chain consists of upstream raw materials (high-grade pharmaceutical intermediates, APIs), midstream production (obesity drug manufacturing), and downstream distribution channels (hospitals, specialty pharmacies, online pharmacies) [8] Policy Environment - The increasing prevalence of obesity is expected to lead to significant healthcare costs, prompting the need for effective interventions and policies to manage obesity, with a focus on drug treatments [8][9] Competitive Landscape - Key players in the obesity drug market include Novo Nordisk, Hanyu Pharmaceutical, East China Pharmaceutical, and others, with a growing emphasis on the development of effective weight loss medications [10][11] - Novo Nordisk's semaglutide has become a leading product in the market, contributing significantly to the company's revenue [11][12] Challenges in the Industry - The obesity drug market faces challenges such as limited drug options available in domestic markets, insufficient clinical research on long-term safety and efficacy, and lack of insurance coverage for obesity treatments [14][15] - There is a need for a multi-modal treatment approach, combining lifestyle interventions with pharmacological and surgical options to effectively manage obesity [15]