What was Novo Nordisk's first-quarter adjusted operating profit, and how did it compare to analyst expectations?

Novo Nordisk's first-quarter adjusted operating profit was 32.86 billion Danish crowns ($5.16 billion), which exceeded the mean forecast of 28.74 billion Danish crowns according to a company-compiled poll.

Why is Novo Nordisk relying on its newly launched Wegovy pill for near-term recovery, and what recent development has intensified competitive pressure?

Under new CEO Mike Doustdar, Novo Nordisk is pinning its near-term recovery on the newly launched Wegovy pill, as margins are already under pressure from last year's price cuts to its blockbuster weight-loss injection; however, its window as the only oral obesity pill on the U.S. market closed in early April when Eli Lilly received FDA approval for its competing drug Foundayo, intensifying the battle with its main rival.

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Novo Nordisk's first-quarter profit beats forecasts

May 5, 2026

Novo Nordisk reported a first-quarter operating profit of $5.16 billion, surpassing forecasts amidst intensifying competition with Eli Lilly in the obesity drug market. The company aims to recover from a 40% stock decline by leveraging its Wegovy sales against rivals like Eli Lilly's approved Foundayo.

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