Eli Lilly's zepbound poised to dominate global obesity market, report says

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): Zepbound (tirzepatide) is poised to dominate the global obesity market, surpassing Novo Nordisk's Wegovy (semaglutide) due to its superior efficacy and strategic market expansion, according to a new report. Since its launch a year ago, Zepbound has emerged as a strong competitor to Wegovy, with Eli Lilly following a similar strategy to Novo Nordisk by exploring multiple indications to expand its patient base. Recent results from the SURMOUNT-5 trial, comparing Zepbound and Wegovy directly, showed that Zepbound was significantly more effective in promoting weight loss. While Wegovy led to an average weight loss of 13.7% of body weight, Zepbound resulted in a 20.2% weight loss in patients. Zepbound recently gained U.S. FDA approval for treating obstructive sleep apnea, and it is also being studied for additional indications, including cardiovascular risk factors, chronic kidney disease, and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH).

GlobalData’s report highlighted that, like Wegovy, semaglutide is approved for treating type 2 diabetes, obesity, and cardiovascular risk factors and is being developed for chronic kidney disease. The report also pointed out that over 400 companies are working on obesity drugs at various stages of development. Zepbound’s impact on the obesity market is already significant. Key Opinion Leaders (KOLs) have described Wegovy as “revolutionary,” and with Zepbound’s increased potency and potential cost-effectiveness, it is expected to lead the market. Eli Lilly’s drug, combined with negotiations for better pricing with health services, is anticipated to take the lead, continuing the revolution in obesity treatment.