Thumbs up for Novo Nordisk obesity drug

The decision is an important step towards its release in the US

The Endocrinologic and Metabolic Drugs Advisory Committee (EMDAC) of the American Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has voted in favour of approving Novo Nordisk’s new product Saxenda, a drug for the treatment of obesity, the company announced in a press release yesterday.

The panel voted in favour of the drug by a convincing 14 to 1, an important step in the process of getting the drug approved for sale in the lucrative American market.

“We are pleased with the clear recommendation from the advisory committee,” Mads Krogsgaard Thomsen, the company’s chief science officer, said in the press release.

Happy shareholders
“We look forward to working with the FDA as they complete their review of Saxenda. Obesity is a serious public health issue in the US and we are committed to making Saxenda a new treatment option for adults with obesity.”

Børsen reports that the news was also greeted favourably by the company’s shareholders, including the pension company PFA, which reportedly has 4.5 billion kroner at stake.

Jesper Langmack, the head of PFA, told Børsen that the share price has risen in expectation of FDA approval. “It will rise even more this morning,” he said. “So we’re of course very happy about the news, even though a no wouldn’t have changed our long-term view of Novo – just reduced potential in the share price.”

The new drug application (NDA) for Saxenda was submitted by Novo Nordisk to the FDA on 20 December 2013.




  • Everything you need to know about Greenland’s upcoming elections 

    Everything you need to know about Greenland’s upcoming elections 

    During an unprecedented time in the global spotlight, Greenland will hold a general election focusing on the struggle for independence, its economy, and its international relations.

  • Danish NGOs on thin ice: The Greenland dispute’s hidden risks for aid

    Danish NGOs on thin ice: The Greenland dispute’s hidden risks for aid

    Danish humanitarian and development organizations rely significantly on funding from institutional donors. Among these, USAID and other U.S.-based donors, contribute a substantial portion of funding to Danish NGOs operating internationally.

  • Ryanair cancels all flights to and from Billund 

    Ryanair cancels all flights to and from Billund 

    Ryanair has increased its cuts from the Billund-Aalborg route to encompass its entire operation to and from Billund Airport. The airline’s scarce communication is leaving both the airport and passengers scrambling for answers.

  • What do Danes do for “Vinterferie”?

    What do Danes do for “Vinterferie”?

    As tradition has it, many Danes take a week off for Vinterferie next week. Or the week after. It’s a bit confusing, especially since Christmas and New Year’s Holiday are not far away. What’s going on?

  • The educational options for internationals in Denmark

    The educational options for internationals in Denmark

    Denmark offers free public education, but private schools and universities for non-EU students require tuition. Language is a barrier, with international schools available for children and limited English-taught university programs. In 2024, Denmark expanded university seats for internationals and introduced an HF-international program in Aarhus.

  • Aarhus Gymnasium is launching Denmark’s first HF program for internationals

    Aarhus Gymnasium is launching Denmark’s first HF program for internationals

    Aarhus Gymnasium is launching Denmark’s first HF-international program in August, offering young adult internationals an alternative to IB programs with a focus on career-oriented education and Danish language learning. Unlike IB, it reduces academic pressure while providing access to vocational schools and professional bachelor’s degrees