China-based CSPC Pharmaceutical Group Co., Ltd. (HKG: 1093) has announced clinical clearance from the National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) for its SYH9017, a biosimilar version of Denmark-based Novo Nordisk’s (NYSE: NVO) weight loss drug semaglutide (Ozempic/Wegovy). The clearance allows SYH9017 to proceed to clinical trials focused on weight management for adult overweight or obese patients, aiming to reduce calorie intake and increase physical activity.
Semaglutide’s Therapeutic Potential and SYH9017’s Development
A glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) agonist, semaglutide was approved in China to treat type 2 diabetes in 2021 and for weight reduction in 2024. SYH9017 is the first homegrown, once-monthly semaglutide copycat to enter clinical trials in China. Pre-clinical studies have demonstrated that SYH9017 has a comparable weight loss effect to the listed semaglutide and exhibits good safety. The drug also features a significantly prolonged half-life, which supports the development of a monthly dosage form for clinical use. In addition to weight management, SYH9017 has the potential to treat type 2 diabetes and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.-Fineline Info & Tech
