Innogen Targets 2026 Obesity Drug Market With Trials to Wrap in 2025

Chinese pharmaceutical company Innogen is accelerating efforts to complete clinical trials for its weight-loss drug efsubaglutide alfa, aiming to tap into the growing demand for obesity treatments in China. The company expects to finish its Phase III trials next year, positioning itself as a key player in the competitive GLP-1 drug market.

Innogen CEO Wang Qinghua revealed that the Phase IIB results will be released by the end of this year, while the final Phase III trials are expected to conclude in 2025. Early-stage data from June showed participants losing 7% of body weight within four weeks using the once-weekly injectable drug. However, Wang noted that the short evaluation period meant the full weight-loss potential of the drug remains under study.

The announcement comes as Novo Nordisk’s semaglutide patent expires in early 2026, opening the door for Chinese drugmakers to compete in the lucrative obesity market. Novo Nordisk’s Wegovy, which helped users lose an average of 15% body weight, sets a high benchmark for competitors.

China's regulators have already approved efsubaglutide alfa for Type 2 diabetes management, giving Innogen a strong foundation to expand its use. Analysts like Yurou Zheng at Morningstar predict that price sensitivity will play a major role in the Chinese market. Zheng suggests that consumers may opt for cheaper alternatives with slightly lower efficacy, increasing competition among local and global players.

Adding to the competitive pressure, Innovent Biologics has recently launched its obesity treatment mazdutide, which demonstrated 8% weight loss after 24 weeks in clinical trials. Meanwhile, some foreign companies, such as India’s Biocon, have withdrawn plans to enter the Chinese weight-loss drug market, citing intense local competition.

As the obesity treatment market heats up, Innogen will face significant challenges in meeting efficacy benchmarks and pricing demands. However, its ability to leverage existing regulatory approvals may give it a crucial edge.