The Rise of Weight-Loss Drugs in China: Eli Lilly’s Tirzepatide Approval

Key Takeaway

• Eli Lilly has received approval from Chinese regulators to sell tirzepatide for weight loss in the country.
• Tirzepatide is the active ingredient in Lilly’s injectable diabetes treatment Mounjaro and weight-loss drug Zepbound.
• Novo Nordisk’s weight-loss drug Wegovy also received approval in China, sparking fierce competition in the market.

Eli Lilly and Co. announced on its WeChat account that it has secured approval from Chinese regulators to market tirzepatide for weight loss in the country. Tirzepatide, the key component in Lilly’s injectable diabetes drug Mounjaro and weight-loss medication Zepbound, has been given the green light for distribution. This development comes after Novo Nordisk revealed in June that its weight-loss drug Wegovy had also received approval for sale in China.

The approval of tirzepatide in China marks a significant milestone for Eli Lilly as it expands its presence in the weight-loss market. Mounjaro, initially approved in China for diabetes treatment, now offers a dual benefit as a weight-loss solution with the inclusion of tirzepatide.

A recent study published in JAMA Internal Medicine compared tirzepatide with semaglutide, the active ingredient in Novo Nordisk’s Ozempic and Wegovy. The study found that tirzepatide led to greater weight loss, highlighting its potential as a competitive player in the weight-loss drug market.

Fierce Competition Between Eli Lilly and Novo Nordisk in Weight-Loss Market

The competition between Eli Lilly and Novo Nordisk in China’s weight-loss market is set to intensify. With projections estimating the global weight-loss market to reach $77 billion annually by 2030, both companies are vying for a significant share of this lucrative industry.

Eli Lilly has not disclosed the timeline for the commencement of tirzepatide sales in China or the volume of doses that will be available. The company’s shares saw a 1.4% increase to $860.50 following the announcement, reflecting investor optimism about the potential of tirzepatide in the market. In comparison, Novo Nordisk’s American depositary receipts (ADRs) rose by 1.7% to $132.19, demonstrating a positive market response to the approval of Wegovy in China.

The rise of weight-loss drugs in China underscores the growing demand for innovative solutions to combat obesity and related health issues. Both Eli Lilly and Novo Nordisk are leveraging their expertise in pharmaceuticals to address this pressing need and capitalize on the expanding market opportunities.

In conclusion, Eli Lilly’s approval to sell tirzepatide for weight loss in China signals a new chapter in the company’s efforts to address the global obesity epidemic. With fierce competition from Novo Nordisk and other players in the market, the race to capture market share and provide effective weight-loss solutions is heating up. As consumers increasingly prioritize health and wellness, the demand for innovative pharmaceutical products like tirzepatide is expected to rise, driving growth and innovation in the weight-loss industry.

For more information on Eli Lilly’s latest developments and updates on the weight-loss drug market, visit Investopedia for the original article.

Investopedia – Source: https://www.investopedia.com/eli-lilly-gets-green-light-to-sell-weight-loss-drug-in-china-8680791