Novo Nordisk licenses Hengrui's once-weekly oral GLP‑1/GIP candidate HRS‑1596
- HRS‑1596 is a phase‑1 ready GLP‑1/GIP dual receptor agonist designed for once‑weekly oral dosing.
- Deal value can reach up to $2.6 billion, including a $300 million upfront payment and potential sales royalties.
- Novo obtains exclusive development, manufacturing and commercialization rights globally, excluding mainland China, Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan.
- Transaction is subject to U.S. Hart‑Scott‑Rodino clearance and customary closing conditions, with close expected in Q4 2026.
Deal terms
Novo Nordisk has secured an exclusive license from Hengrui Pharma for HRS‑1596. The agreement grants Novo global rights to develop, manufacture and commercialise the asset outside mainland China, Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan. The arrangement includes a $300 million upfront payment and total potential value of up to $2.6 billion, with additional royalties tied to net sales.
Asset profile
HRS‑1596 is a GLP‑1 receptor and GIP receptor dual agonist designed to reduce weight and improve glycaemic control through appetite suppression, increased insulin secretion and improved insulin sensitivity. The compound is described as phase‑1 ready and has potential for once‑weekly oral administration, targeting obesity, type 2 diabetes and other metabolic diseases. Hengrui Pharma has obtained approval in China to initiate phase‑1 trials for weight management and type 2 diabetes.
Regulatory and timing
The deal requires clearance under the U.S. Hart‑Scott‑Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act and other customary conditions. The parties expect the transaction to close in the fourth quarter of 2026, subject to those approvals.
Source: Novo Nordisk