Eli Lilly anticipates that its weight-loss drug, Zepbound, will gain regulatory clearance in Japan by mid-2025, positioning it to compete in the country's expanding weight-loss market. This projection was confirmed by Eli Lilly CEO David Ricks in an interview, reinforcing the company's confidence in the ongoing regulatory process.
David Ricks stated, "We are confident the regulatory process is headed forward and we expect approval by the middle of next year." Once approved, Zepbound will enter a market already served by Novo Nordisk's Wegovy, which has been available in Japan since the previous year.
Zepbound has already secured approval in the United States and Europe and is considered a crucial component of Eli Lilly's growing portfolio of obesity treatments. The company is making substantial investments in the global development of its obesity-related medications, recognizing their significant revenue-generating potential.
The announcement of the expected approval in Japan led to a 1.81% increase in Eli Lilly's stock value, signaling positive investor sentiment.
