Core Insights - Novo Nordisk has transformed from a company focused on animal insulin to a global leader in diabetes treatment, exemplified by the success of semaglutide, which has gained recognition as a "miracle drug" for both diabetes management and weight loss [1][2][41]. Historical Development - The company was founded in 1923 after Danish couple brought insulin production technology from Canada, marking the beginning of its journey in diabetes treatment [9][10]. - Novo Nordisk emerged from a split with Nordisk Insulin Laboratorium, leading to a competitive landscape in the Danish insulin market [10][11]. Market Dynamics - By the 1980s, the global insulin market was dominated by major players like Eli Lilly and Sanofi, while Novo Nordisk and Nordisk faced internal competition and limited scale [11][12]. - The introduction of recombinant human insulin by Genentech in 1982 shifted the market dynamics, but Novo Nordisk focused on patient experience rather than just product purity [13][14][15]. Innovation and Product Development - Novo Nordisk's focus on patient needs led to the development of the NovoPen in 1986, significantly improving the injection experience for patients [18][21]. - The company transitioned from device innovation to molecular design, creating long-acting insulin formulations that reduced injection frequency [26][27]. Global Expansion and Localization - Novo Nordisk established a presence in China in 1994, localizing production and integrating into the healthcare ecosystem [33][35]. - The company has committed to synchronizing drug launches in China with global timelines, exemplified by the recent approval of icodec [37][38]. Commitment to Patient-Centric Innovation - The company's innovation philosophy emphasizes understanding patient needs, leading to the development of GLP-1 drugs that address both diabetes and obesity [39][40]. - Novo Nordisk's recent success with semaglutide has significantly increased its market valuation, highlighting the effectiveness of its patient-focused approach [41][42]. Future Directions - The company continues to pursue advanced therapies, including stem cell research, aiming for a potential cure for diabetes [43][44].