In an exciting twist, Roche is turning up the heat in the weight loss drug race, eyeing a leap ahead of industry giants like Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly. The Swiss pharmaceutical powerhouse announced a turbocharged development plan for its promising new obesity medications, aiming to give Wegovy and Zepbound a run for their money.
Roche’s two potential game-changers, CT-388 and CT-996, are making waves as they move to the next phase of trials. These drugs could offer a convenient pill-based alternative to the injections currently dominating the market. “We’re putting the pedal to the metal to bring these treatments to patients faster than anyone expected,” a Roche spokesperson shared.
While Roche is keeping its cards close to its chest regarding the precise timeline, hints are dropping. CEO Thomas Schinecker teased that the first obesity drug might hit the market much sooner than anticipated, potentially as early as 2028. This is a significant acceleration from the earlier projection of 2030, as stated by Roche Pharmaceuticals CEO Teresa Graham.
CT-388 has shown impressive results, helping patients shed 18.8% of their body weight after 24 weeks, outpacing those on a placebo. Now entering phase two trials, this drug is catching eyes across the industry. Meanwhile, CT-996, gearing up for phase two next year, has already demonstrated a 6.1% weight loss over just four weeks in obese patients without Type 2 diabetes.
Both of these drugs came into Roche’s fold through its acquisition of U.S. biotech company Carmot Therapeutics in January, marking a strategic move that’s already paying dividends. Schinecker confidently told that Roche is poised to offer a distinctive suite of obesity treatments, underscoring their potential to outshine existing options.
With innovative approaches like GYM329, a drug designed to counteract muscle loss during weight loss, Roche is not just entering the fray but looking to redefine it. “We have several pipeline projects that truly set us apart from other players,” Schinecker emphasized.
As Roche accelerates its efforts, the weight loss drug market is bracing for a shake-up. Keep your eyes peeled, because the race is on, and Roche is sprinting to the front.
(Source: Financial Times | Seeking Alpha)
