China Resources Double-Crane Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd (SHA: 600062) has announced that it has received clinical trial approval from the National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) for its biosimilar version of Denmark-based Novo Nordisk’s (NYSE: NVO) weight loss drug semaglutide, which is marketed as Ozempic and Wegovy. The product is set to be assessed for its efficacy in weight management.
Semaglutide’s Background and Biosimilar Potential
A glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) agonist, semaglutide was approved in China for the treatment of type 2 diabetes in 2021 and for weight reduction in 2024. As a drug with significant potential in the weight management market, semaglutide has been a target for biosimilar development. To date, no biosimilar version of semaglutide has been approved in China, although Huadong Medicine Co., Ltd (SHE: 000963) had previously received clinical trial approval for a similar indication.
The Significance of Biosimilar Development
The development of a biosimilar version of semaglutide by China Resources Double-Crane Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd represents a significant step forward in providing more affordable treatment options for patients in China. Biosimilars have the potential to increase access to essential medicines and reduce the financial burden on healthcare systems, while also fostering competition in the pharmaceutical market.-Fineline Info & Tech
Leave a Reply