Novo Nordisk reported a 19% increase in sales measured in Danish kroner, amounting to DKK 78.1 billion for the first quarter of 2025. In constant exchange rates (CER), this represents an 18% rise. The company’s operating profit also saw an uptick, growing by 22% in Danish kroner and 20% at CER to reach DKK 38.8 billion.
The growth was fueled by a 20% increase in sales from US Operations in Danish kroner (17% at CER) and an 18% rise from International Operations (19% at CER). The Diabetes and Obesity care sector saw significant growth with a 21% increase in sales to DKK 73.5 billion, driven primarily by a notable surge in Obesity care which grew by 67% to DKK 18.4 billion.
Novo Nordisk completed the REDEFINE 2 trial within its research and development efforts, showcasing CagriSema’s superior weight loss results. The company plans to seek regulatory approval for CagriSema in early 2026. Additionally, oral semaglutide for obesity has been submitted for review by the US FDA.
Looking ahead, Novo Nordisk projects a sales growth of between 13-21% at CER for the year, with operating profit expected to grow between 16-24%. However, due to lower-than-anticipated penetration of branded GLP-1 treatments affected by compounded versions in the US market, these figures are expected to be slightly lower when reported in Danish kroner.
Lars Fruergaard Jørgensen, President and CEO of Novo Nordisk stated: “In the first quarter of 2025, we delivered 18% sales growth and continued to expand the reach of our innovative GLP-1 treatments.” He acknowledged challenges with branded GLP-1 penetration due to compounding issues but emphasized efforts on preventing unlawful practices and expanding patient access.
An earnings call is scheduled for May 7th at which investors can listen through Novo Nordisk’s website under ‘Investors’.
Founded in Denmark in 1923, Novo Nordisk is recognized as a leading global healthcare company focusing on chronic diseases such as diabetes. It employs approximately 77,400 people worldwide and markets products across around 170 countries.
