While progress in NASH has been slow for years, two dual GLP-1/GR agonists from rivals Merck & Co and Altimmune are showing mid-stage promise.
Merck & Co. and Altimmune are competing to be leaders in a future non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) market, with both companies presenting data for a promising new therapeutic strategy next week.
Merck’s efinopegdutide (MK-6024) and Altimmune’s pemvidutide are both dual glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) and glucagon receptors (GR) agonists, a novel therapy class which adds an extra mechanism to that used by
Novo Nordisk enjoyed a surprise GLP-1 agonist contracting win in the first quarter of 2025. This provided a welcome boost to its stock after it had spent the previous quarter on the back foot against rival Lilly.
Helped by a recent major platform deal with GSK, South Korea's ABL Bio is aiming to build its R&D portfolio with an eye on being acquired in the future. CEO Sang Hoon Lee sat down with Scrip to explain the venture's journey so far and its ambitious roadmap.
The presentation and publication of the Phase IIIb study showing greater efficacy for Zepbound over Wegovy come at a time when competition has been heating up between the two obesity medications.
