Pfizer in the GLP War
SUPPLY TRIVIA
The oral GLP-based diabetes and weight loss drug is destined to be a mega-blockbuster opportunity. Eli Lilly and Novo Nordisk are current market leaders. Does Pfizer stand a second chance with its own GLP candidate?
Pfizer (stock ticker: PFE) is actively advancing its development of Danuglipron (PF-06882961), a once-daily oral GLP-1 receptor agonist, aimed primarily at treating obesity and type 2 diabetes. After discontinuing its twice-daily version due to high rates of gastrointestinal side effects, Pfizer shifted focus to a once-daily modified-release formulation. Early pharmacokinetic data has shown promise, supporting the potential for a more patient-friendly dosing regimen. The company is now conducting dose optimization studies to refine this formulation further before moving into registration-enabling studies, aiming to establish Danuglipron as a competitive player in the oral GLP-1 space.
When compared to its competitors, Danuglipron faces stiff competition from Eli Lilly's Orforglipron and Novo Nordisk's Oral Semaglutide (Rybelsus). Eli Lilly's Orforglipron, currently in clinical trials, is showing strong efficacy in weight reduction and glucose control, positioning it as a formidable alternative. Similarly, Novo Nordisk's Oral Semaglutide, the first oral GLP-1 receptor agonist to reach the market, has already set a high benchmark with its demonstrated ability to significantly reduce HbA1c levels and promote weight loss. These factors create a challenging landscape for Pfizer's Danuglipron, which will need to demonstrate not only similar efficacy but also improved tolerability to gain a foothold.
The competition among these pharmaceutical giants underscores the growing importance of oral GLP-1 therapies, especially as patient demand for more convenient, non-injectable treatments increases. While Novo Nordisk's Rybelsus benefits from being the first to market, both Pfizer and Eli Lilly are banking on their once-daily formulations to capture a share of this lucrative market by offering potentially improved patient adherence and fewer side effects.
As Pfizer moves forward with its studies, the performance of Danuglipron in upcoming trials will be critical in determining its potential to compete with the well-established and emerging players in this space.