Pfizer (PFE, Financial) is stepping up its obesity drug development by naming James List as its new chief internal medicine officer, according to a Friday press release. The former Johnson & Johnson (JNJ, Financial) executive brings extensive expertise from his post?doctoral research in GLP?1 weight loss drugs.
Based in New York, the pharmaceutical giant is refocusing its R&D efforts to fast?track development of cardiovascular, metabolic, hematologic, and obesity treatments. List previously led global therapeutic initiatives at J&J's Janssen unit, emphasizing his background in managing complex drug portfolios.
The move comes as Pfizer intensifies competition in the obesity market, currently dominated by Eli Lilly (LLY, Financial) and Novo Nordisk (NVO, Financial). A recent TD Cowen note indicated that the duopoly is expected to persist until 2030. In 2023, Pfizer discontinued its twice?daily oral obesity regimen due to adverse side effects, shifting attention toward a once?daily formulation now in late?stage development.
The appointment is part of Pfizer's broader strategy to enhance its anti?obesity portfolio and secure a stronger global market presence.
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