Novo Nordisk A/S: China's Supreme People's Court delivers a positive ruling on the semaglutide compound patent

Core Viewpoint - The Supreme People's Court in China upheld the validity of the semaglutide compound patent, which is a significant positive outcome for Novo Nordisk and demonstrates strong government support for medical innovation [1][2]. Group 1: Legal and Regulatory Developments - The ruling by the Supreme People's Court reinforces the Beijing IP Court's decision regarding the semaglutide compound patent [1]. - This decision is expected to enhance confidence among foreign companies regarding sustainable development in China [2]. Group 2: Product Information - Semaglutide is a long-acting GLP-1 analogue developed by Novo Nordisk, used in medications such as Wegovy for obesity and Ozempic and Rybelsus for type 2 diabetes [2]. - Since its launch, semaglutide has achieved approximately 38 million patient-years of use, indicating broad clinical recognition [2]. Group 3: Financial Implications - Novo Nordisk anticipates that the compound patent expiry of semaglutide in certain countries will have a low-single-digit negative impact on global sales growth in 2026, but this ruling does not change previous communications regarding this matter [3]. Group 4: Company Overview - Novo Nordisk, founded in 1923 and headquartered in Denmark, focuses on combating chronic diseases, particularly diabetes, through scientific innovation and expanding access to medicines [4]. - The company employs around 78,500 people across 80 countries and markets its products in approximately 170 countries [4].