Novo Nordisk, a Danish multinational pharmaceutical company, is synonymous with innovation in diabetes care. Founded in 1923 and headquartered in Bagsværd, Denmark, the company is a global leader in manufacturing insulin and other diabetes-related products, with a market capitalization exceeding $300 billion (2025).
History and Milestones
Novo Nordisk traces its roots to two Danish companies: Nordisk Insulinlaboratorium and Novo Terapeutisk Laboratorium. Both were established in the 1920s after the discovery of insulin. In 1989, the two companies merged to form Novo Nordisk. Over the decades, it has transformed diabetes treatment with innovations like prefilled insulin pens and long-acting insulin analogs.
Key milestones include:
1985: Launch of the world’s first insulin pen.
2000: Introduction of modern insulin analogs like NovoRapid®.
2022: Expansion into obesity treatment with Wegovy®, a breakthrough GLP-1 receptor agonist.
Products and Services
Novo Nordisk specializes in:
Diabetes care: Insulin, GLP-1 receptor agonists (e.g., Ozempic®, Victoza®), and glucose-monitoring devices.
Obesity treatment: Medications such as Wegovy®.
Rare diseases: Products for hemophilia, growth hormone disorders, and endocrine diseases.
Biopharmaceuticals: Treatments for hormone replacement therapy and related conditions.
Business Model
Novo Nordisk operates on a research-driven model, investing heavily in R&D to create innovative products. Its vertically integrated operations encompass everything from research to manufacturing and global distribution. The company has a robust presence in over 80 countries and generates significant revenue from the U.S., China, and Europe.
Impact on the Nordics and Global Markets
Novo Nordisk’s contributions extend beyond healthcare:
Economic significance: As Denmark’s largest company, it accounts for a substantial share of the national GDP and employs over 50,000 people worldwide.
Healthcare leadership: Its diabetes products help millions globally manage chronic conditions, improving quality of life.
Sustainability: The company has ambitious goals, including achieving net-zero emissions across its supply chain by 2045.
Novo Nordisk exemplifies the Nordic values of innovation, sustainability, and social responsibility. Its pioneering work in diabetes care and biopharmaceuticals cements its status as a cornerstone of the global healthcare industry.
Read more on NovoNordisk.com
