Tirzepatide

OpenAI's valuation soars to over $100 billion, with $3.4 billion annualized revenue for 2024. Eli Lilly's obesity drug Zepbound reduces diabetes risk by 94%. Qualcomm and Intel compete in AI PC chips. Uber partners with Wayve and Cruise for autonomous vehicle tech. Anduril Industries raises $1.5 billion for AI-powered defense tech. The EU approves green hydrogen support schemes for the Netherlands and Spain.

GLP-1 receptor agonists significantly reduce cirrhosis progression and complications in patients with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease, according to a study in JAMA Internal Medicine. The study, based on over 16,000 patients, found a 14% reduction in cirrhosis risk and lower risks of complications and mortality. These findings suggest potential preventive treatment for cirrhosis in diabetes and MASLD patients.

FDA approves Eli Lilly's Ebglyss (lebrikizumab-lbkz), an IL-13 inhibitor for moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis in adults and children 12+ years old who weigh at least 88 lbs and have uncontrolled eczema despite topical treatments. Ebglyss, a 250 mg/2 mL injection, can be used with or without topical corticosteroids, with an initial dose of 500 mg at Week 0 and Week 2, followed by 250 mg every two weeks until Week 16, then monthly maintenance. Studies showed 38% achieved clear or almost clear skin at 16 weeks (vs. 12% placebo), with 77% maintaining results at one year.

Pharma companies face challenges entering beauty due to differences in marketing, storytelling, and sensorial focus. The high revenue multiples and exclusivity of pharma drugs make entering beauty less enticing. Johnson & Johnson's sale of Kenvue exemplifies pharma's preference for splitting over merging with beauty. Smaller biotech companies are seen as disruptors in the beauty industry. The convergence of beauty and pharma concepts offers benefits like enhanced product efficacy and credibility but also faces challenges like complex regulatory environments and higher costs. The future may see pharma driving innovation in beauty through novel molecules and sustainable alternatives, potentially leading to a true convergence between the two industries.

Pharmacist Mark Mikhael credits weight loss drugs for his 50-pound weight loss and improved health. He and other industry officials estimate that large compounding pharmacies are provisioning millions of American patients with semaglutide and tirzepatide, despite opposition from drug-making giants like Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly. The FDA allows compounding pharmacies to produce and sell copycats when drugs are in short supply, but the raw materials used may differ, potentially causing harmful immune reactions. The compounded forms are significantly cheaper than the branded drugs, leading to concerns about quality and safety.

Kathryn, diagnosed with gestational diabetes and struggling with weight, took Ozempic and unexpectedly conceived. Ozempic, a type 2 diabetes medicine, is not a fertility treatment but weight loss from GLP-1 drugs can improve fertility by restoring hormonal balance. A registry monitors pregnancies in women taking Wegovy, another GLP-1 drug. While weight loss is the main driver, some theorize GLP-1 drugs may interfere with oral contraceptives. Clinical trials are testing semaglutide in PCOS patients, suggesting potential fertility benefits. However, GLP-1 drugs are not recommended for conception due to safety concerns, and access remains limited.

Semaglutide, branded as Ozempic, is a new diet drug originally developed for type 2 diabetes, now used off-label for obesity, causing weight loss up to 17% in 68 weeks. Popular among celebrities and influencers, it has led to shortages and backlash. Side effects include acid reflux and nausea, and weight regain upon cessation. Despite concerns, it may become more widely approved for obesity treatment.

Ozempic and Mounjaro, initially for type 2 diabetes, help type 1 diabetics control blood sugar and lose weight, reducing daily insulin needs. Both drugs led to significant weight loss, improving blood sugar levels and potentially reducing diabetes complications. Larger trials needed for full safety and efficacy evaluation.

Large drug-maker stocks surged, driven by FDA approvals and pipeline innovations. Eli Lilly, Roche, Novartis, and Pfizer are top picks for long-term gains. Eli Lilly's tirzepatide drugs and Novo Nordisk's semaglutide drugs are top sellers. Despite M&A scrutiny, activities remained strong. Large drug-makers offer robust revenue streams and profitability.

Lemme launches Lemme GLP-1 Daily, a $90 weight management capsule using natural ingredients to boost GLP-1 levels, offering an alternative to synthetic drugs like Ozempic. Formulated with Eriomin lemon fruit extract, Supresa saffron extract, and Morosil red orange fruit extract, it aims to reduce hunger, support healthy blood sugar, and manage weight. Expected results are seen after eight weeks of daily use.