Pharmaceutical Executive Daily: New Research Suggests Ozempic May Reduce Biological Age

Welcome to Pharmaceutical Executive Daily, your quick briefing on the top news shaping the pharmaceutical and life sciences industry.

In today’s Pharmaceutical Executive Daily, we cover the FDA approval of Bayer’s Lynkuet for menopausal hot flashes, new research suggesting Ozempic may reduce biological age, and Novartis’ $12 billion merger agreement to acquire Avidity Biosciences.

The FDA has approved Bayer’s Lynkuet, also known as elinzanetant, as the first dual neurokinin 1 and 3 receptor antagonist for the treatment of moderate to severe vasomotor symptoms associated with menopause. The approval is based on Phase III OASIS trial data showing significant reductions in hot flash frequency and severity. As a non-hormonal option, Lynkuet provides an important new therapeutic alternative for patients seeking relief from menopausal symptoms without estrogen exposure. The approval strengthens Bayer’s women’s health franchise and signals continued innovation in areas of unmet need often underserved by traditional drug development.

In metabolic health research, a new study on Ozempic has made headlines by suggesting that semaglutide, the active ingredient in Novo Nordisk’s blockbuster GLP-1 therapy, may help lower biological age in adults with obesity. Researchers reported that participants experienced changes in molecular biomarkers consistent with a slowing of biological aging. While the findings are preliminary and require further validation, they highlight the expanding potential of GLP-1 medicines beyond weight and glucose control. Analysts note that such studies could influence how physicians and consumers perceive the broader health benefits of next-generation metabolic therapies.

And in major M&A news, Novartis has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Avidity Biosciences in a deal valued at $12 billion. The acquisition brings Avidity’s RNA-targeting conjugate platform into Novartis’ pipeline, expanding its capabilities in precision medicine and neuromuscular disease. Executives say the move reflects Novartis’ focus on high-science platforms that can deliver long-term therapeutic breakthroughs. Industry observers view the transaction as one of the year’s most significant biotech acquisitions, underscoring ongoing confidence in RNA-based innovation as a cornerstone of future drug development.

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