Cheaper Alternatives of Weight-Loss Drugs? Chinese Pharma Companies Are Working On a Local Version

Chinese pharma firms are reportedly working on producing local equivalents of advanced weight-loss medications, challenging Western pharmaceutical giants in a significant global market. 

As they aim to rival Novo Nordisk A/S NVO, these companies target China's enormous overweight and diabetic demographics. 

Successful endeavors could also present more affordable alternatives in Western markets. 

The emerging weight-loss medications fall under the glucagon-like peptide-1 agonists (GLP-1s) category. Although Novo Nordisk's Ozempic leads the market, many similar drugs are in clinical trials in China. By 2026, there's anticipated to be a surge in supply, Financial Times notes, citing the UBS analyst Chen Chen.

Novo Nordisk's weight-loss variant, Wegovy, faces global shortages due to its efficacy in reducing body weight. The combined market for diabetes and new weight-loss medications is predicted to generate sales between $130-$140 billion globally.

Chinese authorities prioritize addressing diabetes and obesity as the elderly population strains healthcare systems. The prevalence of diabetes in China is expected to rise to 10% by the decade's end.

Despite some companies diversifying away from China, western pharma giants, including Moderna Inc MRNA and AstraZeneca plc AZN, are deepening their roots to leverage opportunities arising from China's aging populace. 

Novo Nordisk is a significant player in China's $500 million GLP-1 drug market.

Although Chinese regulators approve Novo Nordisk's drug only for diabetes treatment, it's also available unofficially for weight loss. Recently, GLP-1 weight loss medications by Huadong Medicine and Shanghai Benemae Pharmaceutical received Beijing's approval.

Analysts anticipate Novo Nordisk's Wegovy to receive Chinese approval soon, offering a competitive advantage due to its weekly dosage compared to the daily doses of competitors.