Core Viewpoint - The GLP-1 class drugs, once considered "miracle weight loss drugs," are transitioning from high-priced innovative medications to more accessible healthcare products, with significant price reductions initiated by major pharmaceutical companies like Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly ahead of patent expirations and increased competition from domestic biosimilars [3][12][14]. Group 1: Price Reduction Dynamics - The recent price reductions for semaglutide and tirzepatide are not isolated incidents but reflect a systematic trend, 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 [4][10]. - Eli Lilly's tirzepatide has also shown price adjustments, with the lowest price for the 2.4ml:10mg version falling below 500 yuan, indicating a clear downward trend in pricing [6][10]. - The price of semaglutide has nearly halved compared to mainstream market prices from a year ago, highlighting the competitive pricing strategies being employed [10]. Group 2: Strategic Market Positioning - The price adjustments by Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly are viewed as strategic moves to preemptively address the impending competition from biosimilars and domestic innovations, with experts suggesting that these companies are attempting to lock in user bases and enhance patient loyalty [12][13]. - The upcoming expiration of semaglutide's core patent in 2026 is prompting these companies to adjust their pricing strategies to maintain market share against the anticipated influx of biosimilars [13][14]. - The competitive landscape is expected to intensify as more biosimilars enter the market, with predictions of price reductions of 20%-50% for these products [13]. Group 3: Emerging Competitors - Domestic companies like Innovent Biologics and HengRui Medicine are positioned to challenge the original branded products, with Innovent's mazhitide already approved for both weight loss and diabetes indications, and HengRui's dual-target drug HRS9531 expected to receive approval soon [15][17]. - The market is anticipated to see a surge in biosimilars and innovative domestic drugs, with over 10 companies having their applications accepted for semaglutide biosimilars, indicating a crowded competitive environment by 2026 [14][15]. Group 4: Future Market Trends - The domestic weight loss drug market is projected to enter a phase characterized by multiple products coexisting and price stratification, with oral formulations expected to play a crucial role in market expansion [19][20]. - Novo Nordisk's oral semaglutide is set to launch in early 2026, with clinical data showing significant weight loss potential, which may attract a broader patient demographic [19][20]. - The market is still underpenetrated, with only about 1% of the obese population currently using GLP-1 drugs, suggesting substantial growth potential as competition increases [21].
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凤凰网财经·2025-12-28 12:36