Novo Nordisk receives letter from regulators

Novo Nordisk has said it has received a letter from regulators, regarding its once-weekly version of liraglutide.

The letter relates to the Danish company’s experimental product NN9535, which is currently in phase II clinical trials, a spokesman for the organisation commented.

Novo Nordick added there was nothing “surprising” in the move and it would take the new requirements into account when planning phase II tests.

Last month, the company and Merrion announced the signing of a license agreement.

Set to see a joint development and commercialisation of oral formulation of insulin analogues using Merrion’s proprietary Gipet technology, Novo Nordisk will also receive up to $58 million (39 million pounds) for the first product developed in the collaboration.

Peter Kurtzhals, senior vice-president of Novo Nordisk’s diabetes research unit, said at the time: “We are delighted to continue working with Merrion, who have been an excellent partner – and their unique Gipet technology.

“This programme is an important part of Novo Nordisk’s strategy within diabetes research.”

Headquartered in Bagsvaerd, Denmark, Novo Nordisk has international production facilities in six countries, with affiliates of offices in 80.

The company employs more than 26,553 people – of which 3,709 are in North America, 1,047 in Japan and Oceania and 3,473 are in Europe.