Novo Nordisk's ziltivekimab fails phase 3 trial, jeopardizing CKD program

Novo Nordisk reported that its phase 3 Zeus trial of the IL‑6 ligand antibody ziltivekimab did not meet its primary endpoint, a setback for the drug's development.

The study enrolled more than 6,300 patients with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, chronic kidney disease and inflammation. While the drug showed target engagement by inhibiting the IL‑6 pathway, it did not produce a statistically significant reduction in major adverse cardiovascular events compared with placebo.

The company now looks to its ongoing Artemis and Hermes studies as possible paths to revive the program, though analysts remain cautious about the outlook.