财联社·2025-12-27 04:28Core Viewpoint - The GLP-1 class drugs, once hailed as "weight loss miracle drugs," are transitioning from high-priced innovative medications to more accessible healthcare products, with a significant price drop observed in the market as major pharmaceutical companies prepare for increased competition and the expiration of patents in 2026 [1][10][12]. Pricing Trends - The recent price reductions for semaglutide and tirzepatide are not isolated incidents but show systematic characteristics, with semaglutide's lowest price dropping to 329 yuan per injection for the diabetes version and 388 yuan for the weight loss version, marking a significant decrease from previous market prices [2][4]. - The price of tirzepatide has also shown downward movement, with the lowest price for the 2.4ml:10mg specification falling below 500 yuan for the first time, indicating a clear shift in pricing strategy [4]. Strategic Moves by Companies - Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly are strategically lowering prices ahead of the 2026 patent expiration for semaglutide, aiming to establish price anchors and secure market share before the entry of domestic biosimilars and innovative drugs [1][11]. - Eli Lilly's tirzepatide is set to be included in the medical insurance system starting January 1, 2026, with pre-sale prices already established on e-commerce platforms, indicating a strategy to align with future insurance pricing [8][10]. Market Competition and Future Outlook - The market for GLP-1 weight loss drugs is expected to intensify, with predictions of a price war as more competitors enter the market, particularly in the biosimilar segment, which could see prices drop by an additional 20%-50% [10][12]. - The introduction of oral GLP-1 medications, such as semaglutide's oral version approved by the FDA, is anticipated to expand the market further, appealing to patients who prefer non-injection options [16][17]. Domestic Innovations - Domestic companies like Innovent Biologics and HengRui Medicine are positioned to challenge the original drug market with their innovative products, such as the dual-target drug MaShidu and HRS9531, which are expected to be approved in 2026 [13][14]. - The market is projected to evolve into a multi-product landscape with a price tiering system, where original drugs, innovative domestic products, and biosimilars coexist, driven by varying patient needs and treatment stages [18]. Unmet Market Needs - Despite the growing availability of GLP-1 drugs, the penetration rate among the obese population in China remains low at approximately 1%, indicating significant unmet demand in the market [18].