Novo Nordisk has entered into a non-exclusive agreement with Vivani Medical to evaluate NPM-139, a miniature semaglutide implant being developed for chronic weight management. The implant uses Vivani’s NanoPortal technology to release semaglutide over an extended period and could eventually offer once- or twice-yearly treatment instead of weekly injections.

The agreement is an important sign of interest in a potentially more convenient way to deliver GLP-1 therapy, but it's still very early in development. Novo Nordisk is evaluating the technology rather than licensing or acquiring it, and the agreement does not include exclusivity.

Vivani is preparing a randomized Phase 1 first-in-human study, marking the beginning of human testing for NPM-139, with Wegovy injections serving as an active comparator. That study will initially examine safety, tolerability and how semaglutide is released and processed in the body. A Phase 2 dose-ranging study would follow only if the initial results support further development.

The technology is promising, particularly for people who struggle with weekly injections or treatment adherence. However, the path from an early-stage implant to an approved treatment is long. NPM-139 must still progress through human clinical trials, demonstrate an acceptable safety profile, deliver semaglutide reliably over many months and demonstrate that its overall benefits and risks support its use alongside established treatment options.

Sources

Vivani Medical: Vivani Medical Enters into Agreement with Novo Nordisk to Evaluate NPM-139, a Miniature, Ultra Long-Acting Semaglutide Implant for Chronic Weight Management
Fierce Biotech: Novo Nordisk pens long-acting GLP-1 implant tech deal with Vivani Medical