Novo Nordisk has adjusted its financial outlook for 2025 following a decline in the U.S. prescriptions for its weight-loss drug, Wegovy. The Danish pharmaceutical giant has reduced its sales and profit projections due to a notable decrease in demand for Wegovy and Ozempic in the U.S. market. This decision comes in light of rising challenges within the obesity drug sector. The Financial Times highlighted these changes, attributing part of the drop to pharmacy-created compounded versions of the drugs, especially during periods of supply shortages.
In the first quarter, Wegovy sales fell 13% from the previous quarter to 17.36 billion Danish crowns, which translates to approximately $2.64 billion. This was below analyst expectations, which were set at 18.7 billion crowns. Reuters reported that these figures, along with the competitive pressure from Eli Lilly's Zepbound, which has overtaken Wegovy in U.S. prescriptions, have impacted Novo Nordisk's standing in the market.
In response to these challenges, Novo Nordisk is strategizing to recapture its market share in the latter half of the year. The company plans to increase its sales efforts via partnerships with CVS and telehealth providers and further expand Wegovy's availability across 25 international markets. This is part of a broader attempt to revive branded sales and strengthen its position amidst the competitive landscape.