Core Viewpoint - Novo Nordisk's Semaglutide shows improved weight loss results when the dosage is tripled, achieving an average weight reduction of 19%, but still falls short compared to Eli Lilly's Tirzepatide, which achieves a 22.5% reduction [1][3][4] Group 1: Clinical Trial Results - In recent clinical trials, Semaglutide was tested at a dosage of 7.2 mg, compared to the approved maximum of 2.4 mg, resulting in a 19% average weight loss after 72 weeks, while the standard dosage group lost 16% and the placebo group lost only 4% [3][4] - The STEP-UP trial, involving approximately 1,400 obese adults, indicated that nearly half of the participants on the 7.2 mg dosage lost over 20% of their body weight, with one-third losing at least 25% [6] Group 2: Market Position and Challenges - Despite the new high-dose option, Semaglutide's efficacy remains below that of Eli Lilly's Tirzepatide, which has seen significant price increases in some regions, suggesting that a competitively priced 7.2 mg Semaglutide could be a more affordable alternative [4] - Novo Nordisk faces market challenges, including a 60% decline in stock price over the past year, loss of market share to Eli Lilly, and a recent announcement of a plan to lay off 9,000 employees [4] Group 3: Safety and Side Effects - The increase in dosage correlates with a rise in side effects, with approximately 71% of participants on the 7.2 mg dosage experiencing gastrointestinal symptoms, compared to 61% in the standard dosage group [6] - Over 20% of high-dose group patients reported sensory abnormalities, which may require dosage adjustments [6]