Novo Nordisk CEO to Testify on U.S. Drug Prices Amid Senate Scrutiny

The Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) recently announced a significant development regarding the pricing of Novo Nordisk’s weight loss drugs Ozempic and Wegovy in the United States.

Cancellation of Subpoena Vote:

Novo Nordisk CEO Lars Jorgensen has agreed to testify voluntarily before the Senate committee, eliminating the need for a subpoena. Originally, a subpoena was being considered to compel testimony from Novo President Doug Langa.

Senator Bernie Sanders, the committee chair, confirmed that Jorgensen’s willingness to testify has prompted the cancellation of the planned June 18 vote on issuing a subpoena. Instead, the hearing with Jorgensen is scheduled for early September.

Focus on Drug Pricing Disparity:

Sanders highlighted concerns over the significant price disparity between Americans paying for Wegovy—$1,349 per month—and the substantially lower prices in other countries, such as $140 in Germany and $92 in the U.K.

Jorgensen seeks clarity on why U.S. consumers are charged significantly higher prices than international markets, where the same medications are available at a fraction of the cost.

Background and Previous Actions:

In April, Sanders initiated inquiries into Novo Nordisk’s pricing practices through a letter addressed to Doug Langa. The senator aimed to gather more information regarding the rationale behind the high prices set for Ozempic and Wegovy in the U.S.

In May, Novo Nordisk submitted a reply to Sanders’ letter, attributing the high drug costs in the U.S. to the complexities and structure of the American healthcare system.

Upcoming Hearing and Implications:

The upcoming hearing in September will allow Novo Nordisk to explain its pricing strategy and justify the substantial cost differences observed between the U.S. market and its international counterparts.

The outcome of the hearing could potentially influence future discussions on drug pricing policies and regulations in the U.S., addressing concerns over affordability and access to essential medications.

This development underscores ongoing scrutiny and efforts by the Senate committee to address pricing transparency and affordability issues within the pharmaceutical industry, particularly focusing on high-cost medications like Ozempic and Wegovy.