Exploring the Future of Obesity Treatments: The Intersection of GLP-1 and Cannabinoid Therapies

The obesity treatment landscape is evolving rapidly, driven in large part by the success of GLP-1 therapies such as Wegovy and Zepbound, developed by pharmaceutical powerhouses Novo Nordisk (NVO) and Eli Lilly (LLY). A staggering growth trajectory projects that the obesity market could hit $100 billion by 2030, creating a fertile ground for innovation.

The Emergence of Cannabinoid Therapies

As demand for weight-loss solutions increases, companies are exploring alternatives to GLP-1 medications. One promising avenue is the development of cannabinoid (CBD)-based therapies, which could introduce new ways to manage weight and metabolic disorders. Parallel to the burgeoning obesity market, the cannabis industry is also on an explosive growth path, expected to surpass $200 billion by 2032. However, direct investments in cannabis companies have often yielded disappointing results due to regulatory hurdles.

Current Innovations in Obesity Treatments

This article focuses on three key players that are leading the charge in obesity treatments leveraging CBD science: Novo Nordisk, Corbus Pharmaceuticals (CRBP), and Skye Bioscience (SKYE). Each company holds a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold), making them intriguing prospects for investors.

Novo Nordisk’s Diversified Pipeline: From GLP-1 to CBD

Novo Nordisk, renowned for its semaglutide products like Wegovy and Ozempic, is adapting to competitive pressures, especially from Eli Lilly. To retain its market leadership, the company ventured into the CBD domain by acquiring Inversago Pharmaceuticals in 2023, bringing an investigational oral cannabinoid CB1 receptor inverse agonist drug named monlunabant into its portfolio.

In September, Novo Nordisk presented the phase IIa study results of monlunabant, where patients exhibited statistically significant weight loss compared to a placebo, though there were diminishing returns noticed with higher doses. Looking ahead, Novo Nordisk plans a phase IIb study targeting a broader demographic to find an optimal balance of efficacy and safety.

Recent earnings estimates for Novo Nordisk indicate a slight uptick from $3.81 to $3.84 for 2025, while estimates for 2026 have mildly declined from $4.66 to $4.64. The stock itself has seen a drop of approximately 21% year-to-date, a downturn influenced by multiple factors including competition and regulatory challenges.

Corbus Pharmaceuticals: A Small Cap with Big Aspirations

Corbus is making strides with its lead candidate, CRB-913, which targets the same CB1 receptor that monlunabant does. The company began the first part of a phase I clinical study in March, with results anticipated by the third quarter of 2025. Following this, a phase Ib dose-ranging study is set to launch in Q4 2026.

While early-stage drug development presents significant risks, preclinical data suggests CRB-913 may possess distinct advantages over earlier CB1-targeting therapies. Specifically, the drug has shown a brain-to-plasma ratio that is 50 times lower than rimonabant, potentially indication lower neuropsychiatric side effects.

In addition to CRB-913, Corbus is also pursuing two oncology drugs for solid tumors, with CRB-701 targeting Nectin-4 currently in a phase I/II study, and CRB-601 being an early-phase anti-αvβ8 integrin monoclonal antibody.

Estimates for Corbus’ loss per share for 2025 have widened from $5.47 to $6.34 recently, while 2026 loss estimates have also increased from $5.30 to $5.39. The stock has faced a 36% decline this year, although such volatility may attract investors interested in speculative growth opportunities.

Nimacimab: Skye Bioscience’s Innovative Approach to Metabolic Conditions

Skye Bioscience is advancing nimacimab, a pioneering monoclonal antibody also targeting the CB1 pathway. Currently, they are conducting the phase II Cbeyond study evaluating nimacimab as both monotherapy and in conjunction with Novo’s Wegovy for obesity treatment. Data from this pivotal study is anticipated later this year.

Similar to Corbus’ CRB-913, Skye has engineered nimacimab to restrict brain penetration while maintaining necessary metabolic effects. The company has partnered with Arecor Therapeutics to enhance its formulation for improved dosing delivery.

Recent estimates for Skye’s 2025 loss per share have shifted from $1.27 to $1.31, and the projections for 2026 have also expanded from $1.48 to $1.52. The stock has declined roughly 27% year-to-date, largely due to investor concerns regarding its financial stability and absence of commercial revenues.

Final Thoughts

As the obesity and cannabinoid therapy markets continue to expand, companies like Novo Nordisk, Corbus Pharmaceuticals, and Skye Bioscience are at the forefront of innovation. Their explorations into alternative therapies can potentially reshape weight-loss treatments and present rewarding prospects for investors willing to navigate the complexities and uncertainties of these evolving industries.