What's Going On With Novo Nordisk Stock Today?

On Saturday, Novo Nordisk A/S NVO released the primary results of the SELECT phase 3 cardiovascular outcomes trial investigating the effects of once-weekly semaglutide 2.4 mg (Wegovy) in adults with established cardiovascular disease (CVD) and overweight or obesity without diabetes at the American Heart Association (AHA) annual Scientific Sessions in Philadelphia. 

The data were simultaneously published in the New England Journal of Medicine (NEJM). 

Also Read: Novo Nordisk Seeks Obesity, Diabetes 'Bolt-On' Deals As It Beefs Up Capacity To Meet Soaring Demand.

Previously reported top-line results showed semaglutide 2.4 mg delivered a statistically significant 20% risk reduction in MACE (lower incidence of heart attack, stroke, or death from heart disease) over a period of up to five years versus placebo. 

The detailed findings showed that risk reductions in MACE were achieved regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, and starting body mass index (BMI).

The results also demonstrated that the beneficial effects in MACE risk reduction were evident soon after treatment initiation, suggesting an effect that is more rapid than expected if the cardiovascular effects were entirely mediated with the effects of semaglutide 2.4 mg on body weight reduction. 

This suggests that weight loss alone may not fully explain the benefits of semaglutide 2.4 mg in reducing the risk of MACE.

In the five-year trial, Wegovy lowered the risk of a non-fatal heart attack by 28% and a non-fatal stroke by 7%. The drug also reduced progression to diabetes by 73%, suggesting potential early treatment use. However, nearly 17% of the trial participants discontinued using Wegovy, primarily due to gastrointestinal issues.

Price Action: NVO shares are down 2.90% at $98.26 on the last check Monday.