Novo Nordisk’s Wegovy Pill Nets DKK2.26 Billion, Eclipses Eli Lilly in U.S.
Novo Nordisk’s Q1 sales rose 32% to 96.8 billion DKK, driven by 2.26 billion DKK in U.S. Wegovy pill revenue—nearly double expectations. U.S. prescriptions for the oral GLP-1 reached 2 million by mid-April, giving Novo a 65% share of new weight-loss scripts and tightening the race with Eli Lilly.
1. Strong Q1 Performance Driven by Oral Wegovy
Novo Nordisk reported Q1 sales of 96.8 billion DKK, a 32% year-on-year increase, and raised its full-year profit guidance after the U.S. launch of the oral Wegovy pill. The tablet generated 2.26 billion DKK in its first three months, almost twice analysts’ forecasts, marking a major revenue boost.
2. Prescription Surge and Market Share Gain
U.S. prescriptions for Wegovy hit 1.3 million during the quarter and surpassed 2 million by mid-April, securing a 65% share of all new GLP-1 weight-loss scripts. This shift underscores patient preference for a daily tablet over injections and marks Novo’s strongest competitive push against Eli Lilly.
3. Implications for Eli Lilly’s Obesity Franchise
Eli Lilly’s injectable treatments Mounjaro and Zepbound have led in weight-loss efficacy, but the oral convenience of Wegovy poses a new threat. With Lilly’s obesity pill Foundayo only recently entering the market, this early lead may challenge Lilly’s ability to defend its market position.