CV benefits could increase Rybelsus’ competitiveness over other oral GLP-1Ras

Denmark-based Novo Nordisk’s (NOV: N) oral semaglutide, marketed as Rybelsus for type 2 diabetes, has not gained much presence in the GLP-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) market despite its approval in 2019, as its injectable alternatives prove to have higher efficacy and results both in diabetes and obesity patients.

However, the market for oral GLP-1RAs is expanding, and Rybelsus’ latest results showed its benefits in reducing the risk in cardiovascular events in a specific patient population. The results could position Rybelsus at an advantage over competitors, which are expected to enter the market in the next few years, according to pharma analytics company GlobalData.

Recently, Novo Nordisk announced the results of the Phase III SOUL trial, assessing Rybelsus benefits on cardiovascular risk factors. The results showed a 14% overall risk reduction in major adverse cardiac events (MACE) in type 2 diabetes patients with cardiovascular disease with or without chronic kidney disease.