The weight loss drug market is grappling with an unprecedented surge in demand, creating supply challenges for major players like Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly. Patients seeking injectable treatments such as Wegovy and Zepbound are facing shortages, with analysts projecting the weight loss drug market to potentially reach $100 billion by the end of the decade. Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly acknowledge the ongoing supply woes but are actively working to increase production capacity. Despite encouraging progress, analysts anticipate it may take several years for the supply-demand imbalance to fully resolve.
Both companies have invested in expanding manufacturing capabilities and addressing supply chain constraints. Novo Nordisk reported doubling the supply of lower-dose Wegovy injections, with plans to gradually increase supply throughout the year. Eli Lilly, while expressing concerns about Novo Holdings' acquisition affecting its contract manufacturer Catalent, continues its efforts to enhance production. The development of alternative forms, such as oral drugs and delivery devices like KwikPen, is seen as a potential solution to alleviate supply constraints in the future. As weight loss drugmakers navigate these challenges, industry observers anticipate a continued focus on innovation and production capacity expansion to meet the growing demand for obesity medications.
