Ozempic maker defends high U.S. price: It's 'helping' reduce the cost of obesity

Novo Nordisk's CEO, Lars Fruergaard Jørgensen, defended the high prices of the diabetes and weight loss drugs Ozempic and Wegovy in the U.S., arguing that they help alleviate the financial burden of obesity, which costs Americans over $400 billion annually. Jørgensen's comments come ahead of a Senate committee hearing where he will address concerns about the significant price disparity between the U.S. and other countries, where these drugs are sold for much lower prices. Senator Bernie Sanders has criticized Novo Nordisk for allegedly overcharging American consumers, stating that the company is "ripping off the American people." Health policy experts have expressed skepticism about whether the potential savings from reduced obesity-related healthcare costs can offset the high prices of these medications. Jørgensen attributed the high costs to the complexities of the U.S. healthcare system, including the role of insurance companies and pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs), which negotiate drug prices but may also inflate costs. He acknowledged that some patients struggle to afford the medications and mentioned patient support programs to assist them. Experts also noted that while these drugs can prevent obesity-related diseases, their long-term effectiveness and the duration of treatment required remain uncertain.

- Novo Nordisk defends high U.S. prices for Ozempic and Wegovy, citing cost savings on obesity.

- The CEO will testify at a Senate hearing regarding pricing disparities with other countries.

- Senator Bernie Sanders has accused the company of overcharging American consumers.

- Experts question whether the drugs' costs can be justified by potential healthcare savings.

- The complexities of the U.S. healthcare system contribute to high drug prices, according to the CEO.