Novo Nordisk-UnitedBio Agreement
Novo Nordisk and The United Biotechnology (Hengqin) Co., Ltd. have entered a USD 2 billion major license agreement. Specifically, the deal grants the Danish pharmaceutical company exclusive rights to UBT251 outside of mainland China, Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan. Meanwhile, United Biotechnology will retain commercialization rights in these regions.
Under the agreement, Novo Nordisk will pay USD 200 million upfront. Additionally, it could also pay potential milestone payments of up to USD 1.8 billion. Tiered royalties will also apply to net sales in licensed territories outside of mainland China, Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan. Notably, this partnership strengthens Novo Nordisk’s presence in the metabolic disease space.
What is UBT251?
What is UBT251, the experimental drug Novo Nordisk is interested in? UBT251 is a triple receptor agonist targeting glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), (Glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide) GIP, and glucagon receptors. Specifically, it’s a long-acting synthetic peptide showing strong potential in metabolic disease treatment.
In particular, it targets obesity, type 2 diabetes, and related conditions. Clearly, these early results caught the attention of Novo Nordisk.
So far, UBT251 has completed a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled Phase 1b trial in China. The 12-week study enrolled 36 participants across multiple dosage groups (1mg, 1mg/3mg, 1mg/3mg/6mg). Impressively, the highest-dose group (1mg/3mg/6mg) showed 15.1 percent average weight loss. In contrast, the placebo group gained just 1.5 percent.
Moreover, safety data matched expectations for incretin-based drugs. Most side effects were mild or moderate gastrointestinal issues.
Strategic Fit for Novo Nordisk
Novo Nordisk leads globally in GLP-1 therapies, including its blockbuster drugs Ozempic and Wegovy. With this new deal, the drugmaker further expands its influence in the obesity market. Moreover, with UBT251, Novo Nordisk adds a next-generation triple agonist to its growing pipeline.
Furthermore, it highlights the company’s commitment to innovation in chronic disease management. According to Martin Holst Lange, Novo Nordisk EVP for Development, UBT251 offers exciting possibilities for patients and physicians alike.
“The addition of a candidate targeting glucagon, as well as GLP-1 and GIP, will add important optionality to our clinical pipeline, as we look to develop a broad portfolio of differentiated treatment options that cater to the diverse needs of people living with these highly prevalent diseases,” Lange said.
Competitive Market Landscape
Globally, the obesity drug market is booming. Analysts expect it to reach USD 150 billion within a decade. Major players apart from Novo Nordisk are racing to develop effective multi-receptor agonists.
Eli Lilly, for instance, is developing retatrutide—another GLP-1/GIP/glucagon triple agonist. However, UBT251 may offer distinct advantages in efficacy and dosing.
Strengthened Position
Tsoi Hoi Shan, Chairman of TUL, called the agreement a milestone for both firms. He emphasized the global value of UBT251. Moreover, he expressed confidence in Novo Nordisk’s ability to maximize the drug’s commercial potential.
“TUL is committed to strengthening its presence in the treatment of chronic diseases, including endocrine and metabolic disorders, while actively expanding its footprint in global markets,” Shan remarked. “We believe that Novo Nordisk’s expertise will play a key role in accelerating the global development of UBT251.”
Photo: Novo Nordisk
