Pfizer Terminates Danuglipron Development After Liver Injury in Trial

Pfizer has announced the cessation of its once-daily oral weight-loss drug, danuglipron, following a reported case of potential drug-induced liver injury during clinical trials. Although the liver issue resolved after discontinuation of the drug, the company decided to halt further development after reviewing all clinical data and regulatory feedback. 

This marks Pfizer’s second discontinuation of danuglipron formulations; the twice-daily version was previously abandoned in 2023 due to high dropout rates linked to gastrointestinal side effects, including nausea and vomiting. 

Danuglipron was part of the GLP-1 receptor agonist class, targeting an intestinal hormone to aid in weight loss. The market for such obesity treatments is projected to reach $150 billion annually, with current leaders being Novo Nordisk’s Wegovy and Eli Lilly’s Zepbound. 

Despite this setback, Pfizer remains committed to addressing obesity and related metabolic disorders, focusing on alternative treatments targeting different hormonal pathways. The company is continuing development of another oral weight-loss candidate, PF-07976016, which targets the GIP receptor and is currently in Phase 2 trials. 

Following the announcement, shares of competitors Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly experienced gains, reflecting investor confidence in their established obesity drug portfolios.