- Novo Nordisk has partnered with OpenAI to apply AI across drug discovery, manufacturing, supply chain, and commercial operations, with full integration targeted by the end of 2026
- Pilot programs launch immediately across R&D, manufacturing, and commercial divisions; OpenAI will also train Novo’s global workforce on AI tools
Novo Nordisk has struck a broad partnership with OpenAI to apply artificial intelligence across its drug development, manufacturing, and commercial operations, the Danish drugmaker announced April 14.
Under the agreement, Novo will use OpenAI’s models to analyze complex datasets, identify promising drug candidates, and shorten the time it takes for a therapy to move from research to patient. The deal also extends to manufacturing efficiency, supply chain, distribution, and corporate operations. Pilot programs will launch immediately across R&D, manufacturing, and commercial divisions, with full integration targeted by the end of 2026.
AI Across the Full Operation
OpenAI will additionally train Novo’s global workforce to increase AI literacy and promote compliant use of the technology. Novo said the partnership includes strict data protection, governance, and human oversight. “Integrating AI in our everyday work gives us the ability to analyse datasets at a scale that was previously impossible, identify patterns we could not see, and test hypotheses faster than ever,” said CEO Mike Doustdar. OpenAI CEO Sam Altman said the collaboration would help Novo “accelerate scientific discovery, run smarter global operations, and redefine the future of patient care.”
Building on Existing AI Investments
The OpenAI deal extends Novo Nordisk‘s existing AI program, which includes a collaboration with Nvidia to use the Gefion sovereign AI supercomputer for drug discovery. Novo is one of several pharma companies to partner with OpenAI — Sanofi, Moderna, Thermo Fisher Scientific, and Eli Lilly have signed similar agreements. According to GlobalData’s Pharmaceutical Intelligence Center, the total value of AI partnerships in pharma rose 120% year-on-year between 2024 and 2025.
Competitive Pressure From Lilly
The announcement comes as Novo faces intensifying competition from Eli Lilly in the obesity and diabetes market. Novo launched an oral formulation of Wegovy in January; Lilly recently received U.S. approval for its own weight-loss pill, Foundayo. Analysts project annual revenues from weight-loss drugs could exceed $100 billion within the next decade. Lilly has signed 16 AI-based deals since 2025, including a $1 billion partnership with Nvidia and a $2.75 billion deal with Insilico Medicine, per GlobalData. Doustdar said the OpenAI partnership is “one important step in positioning Novo to lead in the next era of healthcare.” Financial terms were not disclosed.
