Novo Nordisk experienced a sharp decline in its stock price, falling as much as 10% after revealing that its experimental heart drug, ziltivekimab, did not meet the primary endpoint of reducing major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE).
Despite demonstrating some biological effects, the drug failed to achieve a statistically significant reduction in MACE, which includes cardiovascular death, non-fatal heart attacks, and non-fatal strokes, among patients with specific diseases. Chief scientific officer Martin Holst Lange acknowledged the setback but reaffirmed the company's commitment to cardiovascular disease treatment.
The trial involved over 6,300 participants with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, chronic kidney disease, and elevated inflammation. Although overall adverse-event rates were similar between the treatment and placebo groups, serious infections were more frequent in those receiving ziltivekimab, and there was no difference in overall mortality.
This disappointing trial outcome adds to the challenges Novo Nordisk faces in restoring investor confidence, particularly in the competitive U.S. market, where the company's shares had already declined 7% year-to-date prior to this announcement