Novo Nordisk partners with Vivtex in up to $2.1 billion deal for oral obesity drugs

Core Viewpoint - Novo Nordisk has entered a partnership with Vivtex Corp for a deal valued at up to $2.1 billion to develop next-generation oral drugs for obesity and diabetes, focusing on improving drug absorption in the gut [1]. Group 1: Partnership Details - The partnership involves Novo Nordisk licensing Vivtex's oral drug-delivery technology, with Novo Nordisk responsible for global development and commercialization [1]. - An undisclosed upfront payment will be made by Novo Nordisk to Vivtex, in addition to milestone payments and royalties on future product sales [1]. Group 2: Technology and Product Focus - The collaboration aims to create oral forms of biologic drugs that are typically administered via injection, enhancing their absorption in the gut [1]. - Vivtex's platform incorporates gut-screening tests, delivery technologies, and AI tools to facilitate the conversion of biologic drugs into pill form [1]. Group 3: Current Offerings - Novo Nordisk currently markets GLP-1 drugs for obesity and type 2 diabetes, including Wegovy, Ozempic, and the oral diabetes medication Rybelsus [1]. - In January, Novo Nordisk launched Wegovy pill, recognized as the world's first oral drug for obesity, in the U.S. market [1].