UBT251, a triple agonist targeting GLP-1, GIP, and glucagon receptors, achieved up to 19.7% mean weight loss after 24 weeks in a placebo-controlled phase 2 trial in Chinese patients with overweight or obesity.123
The trial enrolled 205 participants testing three doses (2mg, 4mg, 6mg) of UBT251 versus placebo, with the drug showing a safe and well-tolerated profile consistent with incretin therapies.24
Novo Nordisk licensed ex-China rights to UBT251 from United Laboratories (United Biotechnology) in March 2025 for $200 million upfront; United handles development in China, HK, Macau, Taiwan.12
Novo Nordisk has started a global phase 1b/2a trial in overweight/obesity (topline 2027) and plans a phase 2 trial in type 2 diabetes in H2 2026.23
Results announced February 24, 2026, following Novo’s CagriSema setback, positioning UBT251 as a potential competitor to Lilly’s Zepbound (20.9% loss over 72 weeks).1
Sources:
1. https://www.fiercebiotech.com/biotech/novo-nordisks-triple-g-candidate-drives-20-weight-loss-phase-2-china
2. https://www.biospace.com/press-releases/novo-nordisk-triple-agonist-ubt251-delivers-up-to-19-7-mean-weight-loss-after-24-weeks-in-phase-2-trial-in-china
3. https://www.globenewswire.com/news-release/2026/02/24/3243205/0/en/Novo-Nordisk-Triple-agonist-UBT251-delivers-up-to-19-7-mean-weight-loss-after-24-weeks-in-phase-2-trial-in-China.html
4. https://www.biopharmadive.com/news/novo-nordisk-ubt251-triple-g-obesity-drug-results/812926/