• Pfizer halts development of its oral obesity pill, danuglipron, after reports of potential liver injury during trials, focusing instead on earlier-stage treatments.
• Competitors Eli Lilly and Novo Nordisk dominate the market with injectable obesity drugs like Wegovy and Zepbound, with rising demand for more convenient oral options.
• Accessibility remains a challenge as high costs and supply issues limit patient access, despite efforts like price reductions from major pharmaceutical companies.

Pfizer has announced it is halting development of its once-daily oral obesity pill, danuglipron, following a potential drug-induced liver injury reported during trials. The decision comes as the company was preparing to move the treatment into late-stage clinical testing, the final step before regulatory approval. The drug was in early-phase trials to determine the optimal dosage for patients.

Earlier in 2023, Pfizer had already abandoned a twice-daily version of danuglipron after more than half of trial participants discontinued its use. With this latest decision, Pfizer will also cease testing danuglipron in combination with other drugs for obesity treatment.

Obesity treatments remain a lucrative market

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Despite setbacks, the obesity drug market continues to grow. Competitors like Eli Lilly and Novo Nordisk have seen record-breaking sales with injectable treatments like Zepbound and Wegovy. In 2024, Zepbound generated nearly $5 billion in sales during its first full year on the market.

However, the demand for more convenient options, such as pills, is rising among patients who prefer avoiding injections. Eli Lilly has plans to release data later this year on its potential oral obesity treatments, indicating the continued race toward an easier-to-use solution.

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Accessibility challenges and costs still pose issues

While treatments like Wegovy and Zepbound have become blockbuster drugs, many patients face challenges accessing them. Supply shortages and inconsistent insurance coverage have left patients frustrated. Although some pharmaceutical companies, including Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly, have implemented price reductions, these drugs can still cost hundreds per month, making affordability a concern for uninsured individuals.

Pfizer remains committed to developing new obesity therapies despite discontinuing danuglipron. A company spokesperson reiterated that the company will focus on earlier-stage testing for other potential treatments in this growing sector.

Future implications for obesity drug innovation

With obesity rates climbing and demand for user-friendly solutions increasing, the pressure is on for pharmaceutical companies to innovate. Oral treatments could prove transformative if proven safe and effective, offering patients a more accessible alternative to injectables.

What are your thoughts on the future of obesity treatments? Let us know in the comments below, and don’t forget to share this article!

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