Estimated reading time: 2 minutes
Novo Nordisk's diabetes drug, Ozempic, has shown promising results in a late-stage study, indicating a 24% reduction in the risk of death from major cardiac events and progression of chronic kidney disease in patients with type 2 diabetes. This is significant news for a number of reasons. Drugs from the GLP-1 class, which Ozempic belongs to, are initially designed for type 2 diabetes and weight loss. However, they are now demonstrating medical benefits beyond their original purposes.
Diabetes and CKD
Around 40% of people with type 2 diabetes suffer from chronic kidney disease globally, affecting approximately 700 million people. Novo Nordisk, a Danish drugmaker, stopped the trial ahead of schedule in October due to clear success in an interim analysis.
The new trial, called FLOW, involved 3,500 patients with type 2 diabetes and chronic kidney disease. The study demonstrated a statistically significant reduction in several symptoms. These included kidney disease progression, cardiovascular events, and kidney-related deaths for those treated with semaglutide 1.0 mg compared to a placebo.
Novo Nordisk
Novo Nordisk's shares, driven by demand for effective diabetes and weight-loss drugs, have risen by 24% this year, making the company Europe's most valuable listed company. However, after the announcement, shares dipped slightly. Analysts noted a 24% reduction in the risk of kidney disease-related events, slightly below some expectations.
Novo Nordisk plans to submit an application for label expansion for Ozempic in the U.S. and EU. The success of GLP-1 drugs has impacted shares in dialysis companies. It has also affected providers of bariatric surgery, food firms, and glucose-monitoring device makers.
The GLP-1 drug class's potential extends beyond Novo Nordisk, as rival Eli Lilly is enrolling patients for a trial on tirzepatide, its drug for chronic kidney disease in obese individuals with or without type 2 diabetes. This suggests a growing recognition of GLP-1s for treating health problems beyond diabetes and obesity.
PatientsLikeMe exists to help people manage their health. We have thousands of members tracking their CKD symptoms and exploring treatment options. Creating an account is free! Join today.