Pfizer Halts Development of Experimental Weight Loss Pill Following Safety Concerns

Pfizer has announced the discontinuation of its experimental daily weight loss pill, danuglipron, after a study participant experienced a case of liver injury potentially linked to the drug. According to a company spokesperson, the patient "recovered rapidly" after discontinuing use of the medication.

Danuglipron, an oral GLP-1 receptor agonist, was being developed as a potential competitor to blockbuster weight loss drugs such as Eli Lilly’s Zepbound and Novo Nordisk’s Wegovy. The compound had attracted significant investor interest due to its potential in the highly competitive weight management market.

“While we are disappointed to discontinue the development of danuglipron, we remain committed to evaluating and advancing promising programs in an effort to bring innovative new medicines to patients,” said Dr. Chris Boshoff, Pfizer’s Chief Scientific Officer, in a statement.