#China #Shanghai #Novo Nordisk #Hengrui Pharma #HRS-1596

Hengrui Pharma and Novo Enter Exclusive License Agreement for HRS-1596

On September 29, 2026, Hengrui Pharma announced a significant step in diabetes and obesity treatment by entering into an exclusive licensing agreement with Novo Nordisk. This collaboration focuses on HRS-1596, a promising dual receptor agonist capable of oral administration once a week.

The Details of the Agreement

Under the terms set forth, Novo Nordisk has secured exclusive rights to further develop, manufacture, and commercialize HRS-1596 globally, except in specific Asian territories including the Chinese mainland, Hong Kong SAR, Macao SAR, and Taiwan. The agreement has a total potential value estimated at $2.6 billion, which includes an upfront payment of $300 million alongside potential royalties from sales.

Frank Jiang, Hengrui's Executive Vice President and Chief Strategy Officer, emphasized the importance of innovation in their mission to enhance patient care. He noted, "HRS-1596 reflects our continuous commitment to tackling metabolic diseases and aims to offer an easier treatment option with just weekly doses."

Novo's Executive Vice President Martin Holst Lange added, "With our strong background in oral peptide development, we are thrilled to incorporate HRS-1596 into our pipeline, aimed at enhancing patient convenience in managing obesity and diabetes."

The Mechanism Behind HRS-1596

HRS-1596 operates as a dual agonist targeting both the GLP-1 and GIP receptors, aiming to promote weight loss and improve glucose control through multiple mechanisms. This innovative therapy is designed to suppress appetite while stimulating insulin secretion and enhancing insulin sensitivity, making it a potential game-changer for both obesity and type 2 diabetes patients.

By significantly reducing the frequency of dosing compared to existing treatments that often require daily administration, HRS-1596 may prove to be substantially more convenient for patients. Currently, Hengrui Pharma has secured approval in China for initiating phase I clinical trials focused on the compound's efficacy in weight management and diabetes control.

What Comes Next?

The agreement now awaits approval under the U.S. Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act, along with other standard closing conditions. Both companies expect the transaction to close by the fourth quarter of 2026, paving the way for advanced clinical trials and eventual market rollout.

About the Companies

Hengrui Pharma

Founded in 1970, Hengrui Pharma has built its reputation on innovative approaches to pharmaceutical development. The company focuses on various therapeutic areas including oncology, metabolic and cardiovascular diseases, and aims to develop high-quality medications that meet unmet medical needs.

Novo Nordisk

Novo Nordisk, established over a century ago, is a global leader in healthcare solutions that support individuals in leading healthier lives. The company's innovative work within diabetes care and obesity management underscores their commitment to ongoing scientific advancement and patient-focused treatments.

Conclusion

The collaboration between Hengrui Pharma and Novo presents a promising future for HRS-1596, potentially revolutionizing the treatment landscape for metabolic diseases. By focusing on patient convenience and innovative mechanisms of action, this partnership aims to set new standards in medical therapy.