Novo Nordisk tests China-developed drug for obesity and diabetes while competition is growing

The Danish pharmaceutical giant Novo Nordisk has reported encouraging results from a new diabetes and weight loss drug developed with a Chinese partner, Fierce Biotech reports.

The candidate, known as UBT251, belongs to a new generation of so-called “triple agonists”. These drugs target three different hormone receptors and are expected to outperform current treatments.

Early data suggest that may already be happening.

In a mid-stage clinical trial in China, the drug reduced blood sugar levels more effectively than semaglutide – the compound behind Novo’s blockbuster drugs Ozempic and Wegovy.

Patients also lost significantly more weight.

After 24 weeks, those treated with UBT251 saw blood sugar levels fall more than those receiving semaglutide. Weight loss was also roughly double compared to the existing treatment.

The results add to growing optimism around the drug.

But there is a catch.

Rival ahead in the race

US competitor Eli Lilly is already ahead with a similar triple-action drug, retatrutide.

Its trials have shown even greater weight loss, and the company is preparing to seek approval as early as this year.

That puts pressure on Novo Nordisk.

While the Danish company plans to launch global trials later this year, its timeline suggests it could reach the market several years after its American rival.

Analysts say that delay could limit the commercial impact, even if the drug proves highly effective.

China partnership key

The new drug comes from a partnership with Chinese biotech firm The United Laboratories, which developed the candidate through its research unit in China.

Novo Nordisk paid $200 million upfront to secure rights to the drug outside China.

More global trials are now planned, including studies in people with obesity. Results from those are expected in 2027.