Apr 14 (Reuters) – Danish drugmaker Novo Nordisk, which has lagged behind Eli Lilly in the extremely lucrative market for weight-loss drugs, said on Tuesday it is partnering with OpenAI to implement artificial intelligence across its business, from drug discovery to manufacturing and business operations.
The maker of Wegovy and Ozempic said the partnership will utilize OpenAI technology to analyze complex data sets, identify promising drug candidates, and improve efficiencies in manufacturing, supply chains, distribution, and corporate operations.
Pharmaceutical companies are increasingly using AI to speed up the most tedious parts of drug development, from searching for clinical trial participants and selecting sites to preparing regulatory documents, although industry executives say the technology has not yet fully accomplished the more difficult task of discovering important new molecules.
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Novo is looking for new ways to regain ground in an increasingly fierce battle in the obesity drug market against Lilly, which this month won US approval for its weight-loss drug Foundayo, following Novo’s launch of the oral drug Wegovy in January. Analysts predict annual revenue from weight-loss drugs will exceed $100 billion in the next decade.
Novo did not disclose the financial terms of the deal. It stated that pilot programs will be initiated in the areas of research and development, manufacturing and commercial operations, with full integration expected by the end of 2026.
Novo said OpenAI will also help train its global workforce, increasing AI expertise and boosting productivity across departments.
TRAINING, NOT REPLACEMENT
‘The goal here is not to replace our scientists. It’s about enhancing them,’ said chief executive Mike Doustdar in an interview.
Doustdar stated that the partnership was not aimed at reducing Novo’s current headcount, but rather at increasing productivity and slowing down the pace of future hiring. He said AI would help employees work faster and more efficiently, reducing the need to increase headcount as much as in the past. Shortly after taking on the role of chief executive last year, Doustdar announced a restructuring that resulted in 9,000 job cuts.
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“AI is reshaping many industries, and in life sciences it can help people live better, longer lives,” Sam Altman, chief executive of OpenAI, said in a statement. “This collaboration with Novo Nordisk will help them accelerate scientific discoveries, operate smarter globally, and redefine the future of patient care.”
Novo said the partnership includes strict data protection, governance and human oversight, and builds on its existing AI initiatives with other technology partners and research organizations.
(Por Maggie Fick)
