Pfizer has officially ceased development of its experimental oral weight-loss drug, Danuglipron, after a clinical trial participant experienced a suspected drug-related liver injury. Though the liver issue resolved after the medication was discontinued, Pfizer opted to halt the program following thorough safety evaluations and regulatory discussions.
Danuglipron, a GLP-1 receptor agonist, was initially considered a potential oral alternative to leading injectable weight-loss treatments like Novo Nordisk’s Wegovy and Eli Lilly’s Zepbound.
However, the drug had previously shown challenges in its twice-daily formulation due to high dropout rates and gastrointestinal side effects such as nausea and vomiting.
Despite this setback, Pfizer reaffirmed its ongoing commitment to obesity treatment. The company is now prioritizing the development of PF-07976016, another oral candidate targeting the GIP receptor. This drug is currently in Phase 2 trials, with results expected in early 2026.
The obesity drug market remains highly competitive and is expected to grow significantly over the next few years, driven by increasing demand for effective and accessible weight-management therapies.
Disclaimer: This article is intended for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider for medical guidance or before starting any treatment.
