Pfizer Files Lawsuit Against Novo: Alleges Competitor Engaged in Antitrust Scheme to Dominate Obesity Market
Pfizer Inc. (PFE) has intensified its legal efforts to maintain its stake in the obesity-focused biotech company
The dispute revolves around Metsera’s pipeline of experimental GLP-1 treatments, which feature a once-monthly injectable that has demonstrated an average 14% weight reduction in clinical trials, as well as a chemically stabilized oral version. Analysts estimate these products could achieve peak annual sales of $5 billion, according to
Pfizer’s legal argument is based on its regulatory advantage: the FTC ended its Hart-Scott-Rodino review early on October 31, ahead of the November 7 deadline, as noted by
This legal showdown highlights the growing rivalry in the obesity medication industry, which analysts expect to reach $150 billion in value by 2030. Novo, facing increased competition from Eli Lilly’s tirzepatide, is working to strengthen its drug portfolio before semaglutide patents expire. Meanwhile, Pfizer is attempting to gain entry into the sector after discontinuing its oral obesity drug candidate, danuglipron, as reported by
Metsera’s investors, led by Population Health Partners and ARCH Venture Partners, are under investigation for possible collusion with Novo, according to
With Pfizer facing a November 5 deadline to respond to Novo’s proposal and a shareholder vote approaching, Delaware courts are poised to decide whether competitive issues or contractual commitments will take precedence in this major pharmaceutical dispute.
