Eli Lilly's Oral Weight-Loss Drug Wins Key EU Backing, Intensifying Race With Novo Nordisk for $100 Billion Market

The European Medicines Agency recommended approval for Eli Lilly's weight-loss pill, Foundayo, for weight management and type 2 diabetes treatment. The European Commission will review the recommendation before final approval. Novo Nordisk's Wegovy pill, a competitor, generated 3.22 billion Danish crowns in the same quarter. Bernstein analyst Courtney Breen expects Foundayo's EU rollout by year-end.

A NIH-funded study showed semaglutide (Novo Nordisk's NVO drug) extended lifespan in healthy older mice, improving muscle and cognitive function. Eli Lilly's LLY tirzepatide is the world's best-selling drug. GLP-1 drug use in the U.S. has surged, with 11% of adults using them in 2026. J.P. Morgan forecasts 25 million Americans on GLP-1 treatment by 2030, with the market potentially reaching $190 billion by 2035.

Eli Lilly's (LLY) Foundayo pill received a positive recommendation from the EMA's advisory committee for obesity, overweight with health conditions, and type 2 diabetes. Foundayo generated $98M in Q2 revenue. LLY shares rose 1.8%, heading for their best weekly gain in nearly four months. Final approval from the European Commission is pending.

EMA panel endorsed Eli Lilly's Foundayo for obesity and type 2 diabetes, likely making it the second oral GLP-1RA approved in the EU. Foundayo showed significant weight loss and blood sugar control in trials, competing with Novo Nordisk's oral Wegovy and Rybelsus. Lilly's injectables, Mounjaro and Zepbound, drove strong revenue growth in Q2.

The Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use endorsed Eli Lilly's Foundayo for type 2 diabetes and weight management. Eli Lilly (LLY) is seen as modestly undervalued by 19.8% with a GF Value of $1578.54. The company has a GF Score of 96, indicating strong financial health. Insiders have sold $2.66 billion in shares over the past year.

Eli Lilly (LLY) received a positive opinion from the European Medicines Agency for its weight-loss pill, Foundayo. The drug is intended for weight management and type 2 diabetes treatment. The European Commission will make the final decision. Novo Nordisk's Wegovy pill is already approved in the EU, creating competition. Investors are watching for the Commission's ruling and potential launch timing.