Novo Shares Fall 0.58% to 181st in Trading Volume as Generic Obesity Drug Approval Sparks Price Pressure

On August 28, 2025, Novo Nordisk (NVO) closed with a 0.58% decline, trading at a volume of $530 million, ranking 181st in market activity. The stock’s performance followed developments in its core weight-loss drug market, where regulatory shifts are reshaping competitive dynamics.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved Teva Pharmaceutical’s generic version of liraglutide, the active ingredient in Novo’s Saxenda, marking the first-ever generic entry for the obesity treatment. Saxenda, approved in 2014, typically costs $1,350 monthly before rebates, and the generic alternative now targets both adult and adolescent patients aged 12–17. This approval introduces immediate pricing pressure on Novo’s portfolio, as lower-cost competitors gain access to a broader demographic.

Analysts highlight that the generic launch accelerates market saturation in the weight-loss segment, where Novo holds a dominant but increasingly contested position. While the company has diversified into newer therapies, the FDA’s decision underscores the vulnerability of its legacy products to cost-driven competition. The move could also influence prescribing patterns, as healthcare providers may prioritize affordability over brand loyalty.

Query limit exceeded.