GLP-1 Boom Boosts Amgen and Regeneron to the Forefront

The demand for GLP-1 drugs is skyrocketing due to their effectiveness in treating conditions beyond diabetes, such as obesity and obstructive sleep apnea. While Eli Lilly and Novo Nordisk are currently leading the field with their GLP-1 products, Amgen and Regeneron are also making significant strides in this area.

Amgen's MariTide is an investigational GLP-1 medicine that could be a long-term growth driver for the company if it passes its ongoing phase 3 clinical trials. The drug has the potential to be administered monthly or less frequently, which could make it more appealing to patients who value convenience over efficacy.

Regeneron is also developing two promising GLP-1 candidates: olatorepatide and another undisclosed medicine that may help patients maintain muscle mass while losing weight on GLP-1s. Olatorepatide has shown impressive results in a phase 3 study, leading to a mean weight loss of up to 19% over 48 weeks.