Zhong Guo Xin Wen Wang·2026-02-07 03:49Core Insights - Eli Lilly's tirzepatide is projected to surpass Novo Nordisk's semaglutide in global sales by 2025, claiming the title of "king of drugs" [1] - Eli Lilly reported a total revenue of $65.179 billion for 2025, a 44% year-over-year increase, with a net profit of $20.64 billion, up 95% [1] - Tirzepatide contributed over $36.5 billion in revenue, with sales of the diabetes version reaching $22.965 billion (99% increase) and the weight loss version at $13.542 billion (175% increase) [1] - Novo Nordisk's revenue for 2025 was approximately $48.95 billion, with semaglutide accounting for 73.9% of its revenue, totaling about $36.1 billion [1] Market Dynamics - The pharmaceutical industry is experiencing a shift in leadership, with the "king of drugs" title changing hands more frequently due to patent expirations [2] - Semaglutide's core patent will expire in March 2026, while tirzepatide's patent is expected to last until after 2030, but both are facing increased competition from generics [2] - A price war has begun, with both Eli Lilly and Novo Nordisk announcing price reductions for their key diabetes and weight loss drugs starting November 2025 [2][3] Future Projections - Eli Lilly anticipates total revenue of $80 billion to $83 billion for 2026, representing a 25% increase from 2025 [3] - Novo Nordisk has lowered its 2026 sales guidance, expecting a decline of 5% to 13% due to pricing pressures affecting its diabetes and weight loss drugs [3] - The global obesity treatment market is rapidly evolving, with over 600 drugs in development, primarily in the U.S. and China [3]