Novo Nordisk’s Victoza approved

Novo Nordisk A/S has won US FDA approval for Victoza (also known as liraglutide) (It was approved in Europe in April) – a diabetes blood sugar control drug that had previously caused some safety concerns (thyroid tumors were seen in some animal studies). 

Novo Nordisk A/S is the world’s largest manufacturer of insulin, and this drug could generate huge sales in the next few years.

Victoza is seen by some as a direct competitor to Byetta.

On the Novo Nordisk website, a press release stated:

“The US approval of Victoza® represents a major advancement in the treatment of type 2 diabetes and is an important milestone for Novo Nordisk that follows the recent approval in Japan and the ongoing successful launch in Europe." says Lars Rebien Sørensen, president and CEO. "We are convinced that Victoza® will prove to be a valuable treatment option for people with type 2 diabetes in the US. The ability of Victoza® to substantially improve glucose control with a low risk of hypoglycaemia creates an opportunity for more patients with type 2 diabetes to achieve their individual treatment goals.”

In response to the new of FDA approval, share in Novo Nordisk hit a record high of 371.60 Danish crowns.

When Victoza does go on sale, it will include a health warning about pancreatitis.

Source: http://www.novonordisk.com/press

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