Novo Nordisk (NVO) Is Preparing to Launch Its New Weight Loss Pill – Here’s the Data

Novo Nordisk (NVO) is preparing to launch a new weight loss pill. In fact, the 25-milligram oral version of Wegovy is awaiting regulatory approval, which could come by the end of the year. Notably, the drugmaker shared new data showing that the pill is both safe and effective. As a result, Dr. Jason Brett, Novo’s U.S. medical lead, said that the results give doctors and patients more information to help decide if this option is right for them, especially for people who don’t want to take injections.

Data from the OASIS 4 trial showed that the pill improved blood sugar levels and supported heart health. For example, 71.1% of prediabetic patients returned to normal blood sugar levels after 64 weeks, compared to just 33.3% in the placebo group. Those who lost at least 15% of their body weight also saw improvements in blood pressure, inflammation, and triglyceride levels. This was similar to the results seen with injectable Wegovy.

In addition, the pill provided benefits to people across different groups, including women at all stages of menopause. Indeed, pre-menopausal women lost an average of 18.2% of their body weight, while peri- and post-menopausal women lost about 15%. It also helped people with low physical function feel better over time. More specifically, 77.3% reported noticeable improvement compared to 42.9% on placebo. It’s worth noting that the timing of this news is important for Novo, as it looks to strengthen its position in the obesity drug market after losing a bidding war with Pfizer (PFE) over Metsera (MTSR).

Is NVO Stock a Good Buy?

Turning to Wall Street, analysts have a Moderate Buy consensus rating on NVO stock based on five Buys, three Holds, and one Sell assigned in the past three months, as indicated by the graphic below. Furthermore, the average NVO price target of $60.16 per share implies 20.7% upside potential.

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