Novo Nordisk A/S is launching its top-selling Wegovy obesity drug in China at a fraction of the US price, a key step in unlocking a big, fast-growing market for its blockbuster franchise.

Novo Nordisk said on Monday it has launched its popular obesity drug Wegovy in China, the world's second-largest pharmaceuticals market. A spokesperson for the Danish drugmaker confirmed the news to Reuters after it was first reported by China-based financial media outlet Yicai.

Wegovy is being made available to Chinese patients five months after its approval in the country. Novo will sell the medicine for about $193.27 for a one-month supply.

Novo Nordisk reported forecast-beating third-quarter sales of its popular Wegovy weight-loss drug on Wednesday, reassuring investors worried that demand was slowing and it could lose the race in the fast-growing obesity drug market.

The company narrowed its full-year guidance as its blockbuster weight-loss drug soars in popularity.

When it comes to weight loss drugs, Ozempic has become a phenomenon. With nearly $14 billion sales in 2023, it shows no signs of slowing down, much to the delight of its Danish manufacturer, Novo Nordisk A/S (NYSE: NVO).

Novo Nordisk has launched its weight-loss drug Wegovy in China after it was approved by local health authorities in June. It is set to intensify competition with rival Eli Lilly, whose popular weight-loss treatment also got the green light months ago but has yet to go on sale in the world's second largest pharmaceutical market.

Novo Nordisk (NVO) has reportedly launched its popular weight-loss drug Wegovy in China ahead of a rival drug by Eli Lilly (LLY). Read more here.