After 34 years with the company and amid a 53% decline in share value, Jørgensen’s departure marks a pivotal moment in the global weight loss market.
Understanding the Market Shake-Up and What It Means for Private Practices
In a move that sent ripples across the pharmaceutical and medical community, Novo Nordisk has announced that CEO Lars Fruergaard Jørgensen will step down after 34 years, citing “market challenges” and a 53% drop in share price. The resignation comes amidst a rapidly shifting landscape for GLP-1 medications, including Wegovy and Ozempic, widely used for weight loss and diabetes management.
While Jørgensen’s LinkedIn farewell post was gracious and forward-looking, the underlying message is clear: the economic model surrounding GLP-1s is under pressure, and providers must prepare for clinical and market volatility.
Legal, Regulatory, and Economic Unrest in the GLP-1 Space
GLP-1s like tirzepatide (Zepbound, Mounjaro) have faced tightening FDA regulations. In late 2024, the FDA removed tirzepatide from the national drug shortage list, leading to a ban on compounding pharmacies producing copies of the medication. As of March 19, 2025, all large-scale outsourcing facilities must cease operations for compounded Tirzepatide, or face enforcement.
Meanwhile, Eli Lilly has launched lawsuits against clinics and vendors selling unauthorized compounded versions of their GLP-1 drugs, citing IP violations and FDA infractions.
Further destabilizing the treatment landscape is real-world data indicating that up to 30% of GLP-1 patients discontinue treatment within six months due to cost, side effects, or diminishing returns.
Clinical Strategy: Diversify to Retain, Convert, and Grow
Faced with litigation, supply chain restrictions, and patient dropout, clinicians must rethink their weight loss service lines.
Retain Current Patients: Offer existing GLP-1 patients an alternative that doesn’t rely on compounded medications. Many are actively seeking ways to maintain results without the injection.
Convert to Energetic Alternatives: Patients coming off GLP-1s often experience rebound weight gain and skin laxity. Now is the time to introduce non-invasive treatments that target adipose tissue and tighten skin.
Attract New Patients: Position your clinic as an early adopter of FDA-cleared, drug-free weight loss solutions that align with consumer demand for affordability, safety, and convenience.
Clinical Solutions: Gemstone & Retraction Devices
Gemstone 532nm Green Laser
This non-invasive laser emits 10 true 532nm beams, creating temporary micropores in fat cells. The released lipids are processed via the lymphatic system, reducing fat by 3-6 inches in as few as 6-10 treatments.
- No surgery, bruising, or downtime
- Targets pigmented lesions, vascular issues, and fat reduction
- Stimulates collagen for tighter, firmer skin
A low-level laser system that utilizes true 532nm wavelength beams to non-invasively target and shrink adipose cells, promoting fat reduction, lymphatic drainage, and visible body contouring with no downtime.
Retraction RF Device
This FDA-cleared radiofrequency device offers an ideal solution for patients with loose skin post-weight loss. It works by delivering energy into the dermis, stimulating collagen contraction and remodeling.
- Tightens lax tissue
- Enhances body contours
- Complements fat loss treatments
A non-invasive radiofrequency solution designed to tighten skin, enhance collagen production, and improve body contours, ideal for patients transitioning off GLP-1 therapy seeking safe and effective aesthetic outcomes.
Practice Benefits: Why Diversification Matters Now More Than Ever
Mitigate the fallout from GLP-1 discontinuation and legal restrictions
Increase revenue through multi-modality body sculpting programs
Improve patient satisfaction with visible, drug-free results
About the Author
Lance Liberti, MBA, BCPA is a national healthcare consultant and president of Juventix Regenerative Medical and Integrative Practice Solutions, Inc With 20+ years of experience in aesthetics, weight loss, and regenerative care, Lance specializes in helping clinics launch and optimize cash-based wellness services. Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lanceliberti/
References
- FDA Clarifies Policies: https://www.fda.gov/drugs/drug-safety-and-availability/fda-clarifies-policies-compounders-national-glp-1-supply-begins-stabilize
- Reuters: https://www.reuters.com/business/healthcare-pharmaceuticals/us-judge-bars-copies-lilly-weight-loss-drug-2024-12-22/
- JAMA Network: https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2819256
- Juventix – Gemstone Laser: https://www.gemstonelaser.com
- Tentrek / Retraction Device: https://retraction.us
- Novo Nordisk CEO Announcement: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/larsfruergaard_after-34-unforgettable-years-ill-soon-be-activity-7329105862612926464-D-8X
Legal Disclaimer
This content is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical or legal advice. All medical decisions should be made in consultation with licensed professionals. Lance Liberti, Juventix Regenerative Medical, and their affiliates disclaim any liability for clinical or business decisions based on this content.
