Core Insights - The competition in the weight loss drug market is intensifying, particularly between Eli Lilly and Novo Nordisk, with both companies releasing significant clinical trial data for their GLP-1 receptor agonists [1][2][3] Group 1: Clinical Trial Results - Eli Lilly's Orforglipron showed an average weight loss of 12.4 kg (12.4%) in the highest dose group after 72 weeks [1] - Novo Nordisk's oral semaglutide (25 mg) demonstrated a 16.6% average weight loss after 64 weeks in a study involving 307 patients, compared to 2.7% in the placebo group [2][3] - In the same study, over one-third (34.4%) of patients on oral semaglutide achieved a weight loss of 20% or more, while only 2.9% in the placebo group reached this threshold [2] Group 2: Regulatory and Market Developments - Novo Nordisk plans to submit a new drug application for oral semaglutide to the FDA by the end of the year, with production facilities already expanded [3] - Eli Lilly anticipates submitting a global regulatory application for Orforglipron by the end of 2025 [4] Group 3: Market Dynamics and Acquisitions - The market for weight loss drugs is seeing a narrowing of business development expectations as more products enter the market [5] - Pfizer announced a $7.3 billion acquisition of Metsera, a company focused on weight loss drug development, indicating a shift in MNCs' acquisition strategies towards companies with innovative technology platforms [6]

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the rising popularity and effectiveness of Semaglutide, a GLP-1 receptor agonist, in weight loss and diabetes management, highlighting its approval for obesity treatment and its significant social media presence [2][4][29]. Group 1: Drug Approval and Popularity - Semaglutide was approved for oral use in 2019 and for obesity treatment by the FDA in 2021, with further approval for treating adolescent obesity in January 2023 [2]. - The drug has gained immense popularity on social media platforms, with tags like semaglutide accumulating hundreds of millions of views on TikTok, endorsed by public figures like Elon Musk [2]. Group 2: Administration and Efficacy - Oral Semaglutide and injectable Semaglutide show no significant difference in efficacy when stored and administered properly, allowing patients to choose based on their preferences [4]. - In a study, participants using Semaglutide lost an average of 14.9% of their body weight over 68 weeks, compared to a 2.4% loss in the placebo group [10][20]. Group 3: Mechanism of Action - Semaglutide works by suppressing appetite through central nervous system activation, slowing gastric emptying, and stabilizing blood sugar levels, which collectively help in reducing food intake [18][19][29]. - The drug's mechanism includes enhancing satiety signals and improving endothelial function, which is beneficial for cardiovascular health [18]. Group 4: Dosage and Side Effects - The recommended starting dose of oral Semaglutide is 3 mg daily, which can be increased to 7 mg and then to 14 mg based on individual needs [15]. - Common side effects include gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea and abdominal discomfort, which should be monitored [17].