Pfizer has announced its plans to proceed with the development of a once-daily version of its weight loss pill, danuglipron, following positive results from an ongoing early-stage study. The company has evaluated various formulations of the drug and has identified one that exhibits the most favorable safety profile and efficacy in terms of how the body responds to the medication. Pfizer intends to conduct additional early-stage trials in the latter part of the year to determine the optimal dosage of the drug, with results anticipated in the first quarter of the following year. These trials will serve as the basis for the registration enabling studies required for regulatory approval.
Pfizer is among several pharmaceutical companies vying for a share of the market for GLP-1 agonists, a popular class of drugs used for weight loss and diabetes. Analysts predict that the industry could be valued at around $100 billion by the end of the decade. However, Pfizer has faced challenges in establishing a foothold in this market. The company discontinued a twice-daily version of danuglipron in December due to patient intolerance during a mid-stage study. Despite this setback, Pfizer remains committed to exploring the potential of danuglipron, particularly in its once-daily formulation.
Although Pfizer has encountered obstacles in the GLP-1 space, the company continues to invest in the development of experimental obesity drugs. Pfizer’s Chief Scientific Officer, Dr. Mikael Dolsten, highlighted the importance of obesity as a therapeutic area for Pfizer and emphasized the company’s pipeline of clinical and pre-clinical candidates. Dr. Dolsten also expressed optimism about the potential of GLP-1s in addressing obesity, indicating that Pfizer sees opportunities beyond its current offerings. CEO Albert Bourla echoed this sentiment during a conference in June, underscoring Pfizer’s commitment to innovation in the field of weight loss medications.
Danuglipron, Pfizer’s GLP-1, operates similarly to other weight loss and diabetes drugs such as Wegovy and Ozempic, manufactured by Novo Nordisk. These drugs mimic the action of GLP-1, a gut hormone that signals satiety to the brain, thereby promoting weight loss. Pfizer’s exploration of danuglipron in its once-daily formulation aims to provide patients with a convenient and effective treatment option for managing weight loss and related conditions.
Pfizer’s decision to advance the development of a once-daily version of danuglipron marks a significant step in the company’s efforts to address the growing demand for weight loss medications. Despite previous challenges in the GLP-1 market, Pfizer remains committed to innovation and continues to explore new opportunities in the field of obesity treatment. With promising early-stage results and ongoing research, Pfizer is poised to make a meaningful impact in the realm of weight management and metabolic health.