Pfizer filed a second lawsuit against Novo Nordisk and Metsera, accusing the Danish drugmaker of anticompetitive behavior in their bid to acquire the obesity biotech company. Novo Nordisk denies the allegations, stating their offer is compliant with laws and in the best interest of patients and Metsera shareholders. Metsera also dismissed Pfizer’s claims as baseless.

The legal battle stems from Pfizer’s initial $4.9 billion acquisition deal for Metsera, which could provide a significant opportunity for the company in the weight loss drug market. Novo Nordisk countered with a $6 billion takeover bid, leading to a standoff. Pfizer’s first lawsuit seeks to prevent Metsera from terminating their existing merger agreement.

Novo Nordisk, known for GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy, has seen its market position challenged by Eli Lilly and faces investor scrutiny over its pipeline performance. The dispute highlights the fierce competition in the weight loss drug market and the strategic importance of Metsera in the industry landscape.

Read more at CNBC: Pfizer files second lawsuit against Novo Nordisk, Metsera