UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION Washington, D.C. 20549 ------------ FORM 6-K ------------ REPORT OF FOREIGN ISSUER Pursuant to Rule 13a-16 or 15d-16 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 January 31 2006 ------------ NOVO NORDISK A/S (Exact name of Registrant as specified in its charter) NOVO ALLE DK-2880, BAGSVAERD DENMARK (Address of principal executive offices) ------------ Indicate by check mark whether the registrant files or will file annual reports under cover of Form 20-F or Form 40-F Form 20-F [X] Form 40-F [ ] Indicate by check mark whether the registrant by furnishing the information contained in this Form is also thereby furnishing the information to the Commission pursuant to Rule 12g3-2(b) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Yes [ ] No [X] If "Yes" is marked, indicate below the file number assigned to the registrant in connection with Rule 12g-32(b):82-_____________________ FINAL RESULTS NOVO NORDISK INCREASED SALES BY 16% IN 2005 OPERATING PROFIT GROWTH OF 16% EXCEEDED PREVIOUS EXPECTATIONS o Reported sales in 2005 increased by 16% o Sales of insulin analogues increased by 62% o Sales of NovoSeven(R) increased by 16% o Sales in North America increased by 27% o Sales in International Operations increased by 25% o Operating profit increased by 16% to DKK 8,088 million while underlying operating profit (measured in local currencies and excluding non-recurring items) increased by around 20%. o Net profit increased by 17% to DKK 5,864 million and earnings per share (diluted) increased by 20% to DKK 17.83. o The long-term eco-efficiency targets established in 2001 were achieved in 2005. Total realised improvements in the eco-efficiency, as measured by EPI indices, from 2001 to 2005 were 49% for water and 84% for energy o At the Annual General Meeting on 8 March 2006, the Board of Directors will propose a 25% increase in dividend to DKK 6.00 per share of DKK 2. A new share repurchase programme of DKK 6 billion will be initiated in 2006. o In 2006, Novo Nordisk expects to increase operating profit by slightly more than 10%. Lars Rebien Sorensen, president & CEO, said: "We are pleased with the results achieved in 2005. Novo Nordisk insulin now constitutes more than half of the insulin sold globally, and we expect the strong demand for our strategic products to continue in 2006 despite increased competition. We are confident that we also in 2006 will be able to deliver solid financial performance while at the same time increasing our investments in both R&D and in sales and marketing." CONTENTS PAGE Consolidated financial statement 2005 3 Sales development by segments 4 Diabetes care 4 Biopharmaceuticals 5 Costs, licence fees and other operating income 6 Net financials and tax 7 Capital expenditure and free cash flow 7 Outlook 2006 7 Long-term financial targets 8 Research and development update 9 Equity 11 Corporate governance 11 Sustainability issues update 12 Legal issues update 13 Financial calendar 13 Conference call details 14 Forward-looking statement 14 Contact details 15 APPENDICES: Appendices 1-3: Income statement, balance sheet and cash flow 16 statement Appendix 4: Statement of changes in equity 19 Appendices 5-6: Quarterly numbers in DKK and EUR 20 CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENT 2005 These financial statements have been prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS). The accounting policies used in this report are in all materiality consistent with those used in the Annual Report 2004. (Amounts below in DKK million except earnings per share, dividend per share and number of employees) % CHANGE 2004 TO PROFIT AND LOSS 2005 2004 2003 2002 2001 2005 ---------------- SALES 33,760 29,031 26,158 24,866 23,385 16% GROSS PROFIT 24,583 20,981 18,749 18,268 17,349 17% Gross margin 72.8% 72.3% 71.7% 73.5% 74.2% Sales and distribution costs 9,691 8,280 7,451 7,187 6,951 17% Percent of sales 28.7% 28.5% 28.5% 28.9% 29.7% Research and development costs 5,085 4,352 4,055 3,952 3,872 17% Percent of sales 15.1% 15.0% 15.5% 15.9% 16.6% Administrative expenses 2,122 1,944 1,857 1,960 1,931 9% Percent of sales 6.3% 6.7% 7.1% 7.9% 8.3% Licence fees and other operating income 403 575 1,036 758 815 (30%) OPERATING PROFIT 8,088 6,980 6,422 5,927 5,410 16% Operating margin 24.0% 24.0% 24.6% 23.8% 23.1% Net financials 146 477 954 401 285 (69%) PROFIT BEFORE INCOME TAXES 8,234 7,457 7,376 6,328 5,695 10% NET PROFIT 5,864 5,013 4,833 4,116 3,620 17% Net profit margin 17.4% 17.3% 18.5% 16.6% 15.5% OTHER KEY NUMBERS ----------------- Depreciation, amortisation, etc 1,930 1,892 1,581 1,293 1,043 2% Capital expenditure 3,665 2,999 2,273 3,893 3,829 23% Free cash flow 4,833 4,278 3,846 497 186 13% Equity 27,634 26,504 24,776 22,477 19,700 4% Total assets 41,960 37,433 34,564 31,612 28,662 12% Equity ratio 65.9% 70.8% 71.7% 71.1% 68.7% Diluted earnings per share (in DKK) 17.83 14.83 14.15 11.85 10.45 20% Dividend per share (in DKK) 6.00 4.80 4.40 3.60 3.35 25% (proposed dividend for the financial year 2005) Average number of full-time employees 21,146 19,520 18,381 17,073 14,771 8% PERFORMANCE AGAINST LONG-TERM FINANCIAL TARGET LONG-TERM TARGET RATIOS RATIO Operating profit growth 15.9% 8.7% 8.4% 9.6% 15.0% 15% Operating margin 24.0% 24.0% 24.6% 23.8% 23.1% 25% Return on invested capital 24.7%1) 21.5% 20.4% 21.1% 23.2% 25% Cash to earnings 82.4% 85.3% 79.6% 12.1% 5.1% 60%2) 1) ROIC adjusted for non-recurring tax reductions in 2005 equals 23.9% 2) Long-term target ratio measured as three years' average SALES DEVELOPMENT BY SEGMENTS Sales in 2005 increased by 16% in Danish kroner and by 15% measured in local currencies. Sales growth was realised both within diabetes care and biopharmaceuticals - primarily driven by the portfolio of insulin analogues as well as NovoSeven(R). Furthermore, sales of growth hormone therapy products contributed to growth. SALES SHARE OF 2005 GROWTH GROWTH DKK GROWTH IN LOCAL IN LOCAL MILLION AS REPORTED CURRENCIES CURRENCIES THE DIABETES CARE SEGMENT Insulin analogues 7,298 62% 61% 62% Human insulin and insulin-related 15,006 4% 3% 10% products Oral antidiabetic products 1,708 4% 3% 1% DIABETES CARE - TOTAL 24,012 17% 16% 73% THE BIOPHARMACEUTICALS SEGMENT NovoSeven(R) 5,064 16% 16% 15% Growth hormone therapy 2,781 20% 20% 10% Other products 1,903 4% 4% 2% BIOPHARMACEUTICALS - TOTAL 9,748 15% 14% 27% TOTAL SALES 33,760 16% 15% 100% Sales growth was realised in all regions. The main growth driver was North America, constituting 28% of total sales, followed by International Operations with 18% of total sales. The growth of 16% in sales for 2005 was slightly above the expected growth of 13-15% as communicated with the financial results for the first nine months of 2005 on 27 October 2005. DIABETES CARE Sales of diabetes care products increased by 17% in Danish kroner to DKK 24,012 million compared to 2004 and by 16% in local currencies. INSULIN ANALOGUES, HUMAN INSULIN AND INSULIN-RELATED PRODUCTS Sales of insulin analogues, human insulin and insulin-related products increased by 18% measured in Danish kroner to DKK 22,304 million and by 17% in local currencies. All regions contributed to growth measured in local currencies as well as in Danish kroner, with North America and International Operations having the highest growth rates. Novo Nordisk continues to consolidate its global leadership position within the insulin segment: the company's total insulin market share worldwide is 51% and the analogue market share is 34%, both measured in volume. The similar market shares in 2004 were 50% and 28%, respectively. Sales of insulin analogues increased by 62% in Danish kroner to DKK 7,298 million in 2005 and by 61% in local currencies. Insulin analogues constituted around 62% of the overall sales growth for Novo Nordisk in 2005, measured in local currencies, as compared to 55% in 2004. North America Sales in North America increased by 40% in Danish kroner and by 39% in local currencies in 2005, reflecting solid sales performance for the insulin analogues NovoLog(R) and NovoLog(R) Mix 70/30. Novo Nordisk now holds 38% of the total US insulin market and 23% of the analogue market, both measured in volume. The similar market shares in 2004 were 34% and 18%, respectively. The human insulin products also contributed to the sales increase in 2005 due to higher volumes and higher average sales prices. Novo Nordisk has now completed the previously announced expansion of the US diabetes care sales force by adding around 400 individuals, thereby bringing the total sales force to 1,200. The company is thereby well positioned to launch Levemir(R) in the US market, and the launch is expected to take place during the second quarter of 2006. Europe Insulin sales in Europe increased by 8% in Danish kroner and by 7% in local currencies, primarily reflecting progress for the portfolio of insulin analogues, including Levemir(R). Novo Nordisk continues to consolidate the leadership position in the insulin analogue market, holding 43% of the market, measured in volume. International Operations Sales in International Operations increased by 27% in Danish kroner and by 23% in local currencies. The primary growth drivers in 2005 were sales in China, Russia and Brazil. China accounted for close to 20% of total insulin sales in International Operations and 25% of the increase in insulin sales during 2005. Novo Nordisk holds close to 60% of the Chinese insulin market, measured in volume. Whereas insulin sales in International Operations remain dominated by human insulin products, the portfolio of insulin analogue products continues to add to the overall sales growth in the region, with Turkey and Russia as the largest growth drivers. Novo Nordisk remains the overall insulin market leader within the International Operations region and also holds the leadership position within insulin analogues. Japan & Oceania Sales in Japan & Oceania increased by 10% in Danish kroner and by 11% in local currencies, primarily reflecting higher sales of NovoRapid(R) and NovoRapid(R) 30 Mix, assisted by the ongoing switch from durable to prefilled devices. In Japan, Novo Nordisk holds close to 60% and in Australia close to 70% of the insulin analogue market, measured by volume. ORAL ANTIDIABETIC PRODUCTS Sales of oral antidiabetic products increased by 4% in Danish kroner to DKK 1,708 million and by 3% in local currencies, compared to 2004. While the sales development was positive both in Europe and International Operations, this was partly offset by slightly lower sales in the US market, compared to 2004, reflecting a lower market share for Prandin(R). BIOPHARMACEUTICALS Sales of biopharmaceutical products increased by 15% in Danish kroner to DKK 9,748 million and by 14% in local currencies compared to 2004. NOVOSEVEN(R) Sales of NovoSeven(R) increased by 16% in Danish kroner to DKK 5,064 million and by 16% in local currencies compared to 2004. All regions contributed to the increase in sales, with North America as the main contributor to growth. The sales growth of NovoSeven(R) was influenced by several factors during 2005. Due to the high penetration within spontaneous bleeds in congenital inhibitor patients, the predominant part of the growth within the inhibitor segment was generated by treatment of acquired haemophilia patients and usage of NovoSeven(R) in connection with elective surgery. Treatment of spontaneous bleeds for congenital inhibitor patients remains the largest area of use. In addition, sales are perceived to have been positively affected by increased investigational use of NovoSeven(R). GROWTH HORMONE THERAPY (NORDITROPIN(R) AND NORDITROPIN(R) SIMPLEXX(R)) Sales of growth hormone therapy products increased by 20% in Danish kroner to DKK 2,781 million and by 20% in local currencies, and all regions contributed to the sales increase compared to 2004, with North America and Europe having the highest growth rates. The NordiFlex(R) prefilled ready-to-use delivery device was the main reason for the increase in sales. OTHER PRODUCTS Sales of other products within biopharmaceuticals, which predominantly consist of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) products, increased by 4% in Danish kroner to DKK 1,903 million and by 4% in local currencies compared to last year. The main sales increase occurred in the US market, while sales in Europe were slightly above the levels realised in 2004. COSTS, LICENCE FEES AND OTHER OPERATING INCOME The cost of goods sold increased by 14% to DKK 9,177 million, representing a gross margin of 72.8%, compared to 72.3% in 2004. The improvement mainly reflects an improved product mix and increased production efficiency. Total non-production-related costs increased by 16% to DKK 16,898 million. The increase in non-production-related costs in particular reflects increased sales and distribution costs, which increased in line with the growth in sales. This was mainly due to the increase in the US diabetes care sales force during the fourth quarter of 2005 as well as costs related to the continued roll-out of Levemir(R) in the European market, including expansion of sales forces in key markets. Total costs related to depreciation, amortisation and impairment losses in 2005 were DKK 1,930 million compared to DKK 1,892 million in 2004. The costs for 2005 include DKK 171 million in impairment charges, primarily related to fixed assets, compared to DKK 326 million in 2004. In 2005, Novo Nordisk expensed costs in relation to share-based incentive programmes for senior management and other senior employees amounting to DKK 83 million. The comparable expense for 2004 was DKK 104 million. In addition, costs amounting to DKK 140 million in connection with the previously announced general employee share programme were expensed during the fourth quarter of 2005. Licence fees and other operating income in 2005 were DKK 403 million, compared to DKK 575 million in 2004, reflecting a lower level of non-recurring income in 2005. Operating profit in 2005 was realised at DKK 8,088 million, compared to DKK 6,980 million in 2004, corresponding to a growth rate of 16%. This was slightly above the previously announced expectations of growth in operating profit of 12-15%, communicated in connection with the release of the financial results for the first nine months of 2005. NET FINANCIALS AND TAX Net financials showed an income of DKK 146 million in 2005 compared to an income of DKK 477 million in 2004. Net financials in 2005 were in line with the previously announced expectation of an income of DKK 150 million. The result from associated companies was an income of DKK 319 million compared to an expense of DKK 117 million in 2004, primarily reflecting Novo Nordisk's share of the net loss in ZymoGenetics Inc being more than offset by total non-recurring gains during 2005 of approximately DKK 450 million from sales of shares in Ferrosan A/S and an offering of new shares in ZymoGenetics Inc. The foreign exchange result was a loss of DKK 40 million compared to a gain of DKK 533 million in 2004. The loss on foreign exchange in 2005 reflects losses from foreign exchange hedging activities due to the higher level in 2005 of especially US dollars versus Danish kroner compared to 2004. In accordance with IFRS, an unrealised loss of DKK 345 million was deferred by the end of December 2005 for profit and loss recognition in 2006 and 2007 when the hedged operational cash flows occur. The effective tax rate for 2005 was 28.8%, a decrease from 32.8% in 2004, equivalent to a total tax expense of DKK 2.4 billion in 2005. The lower effective tax rate for 2005 is a result of several factors, including the reduction of the Danish corporate income tax rate from 30% to 28%, effective for the entire 2005, and a beneficial impact from the re-evaluation of the company's deferred tax liabilities, as well as the tax-exempt status of the non-recurring gains from associated companies as mentioned above. The realised effective tax rate for 2005 was in line with the previously communicated expectation of a tax rate of 'slightly below 29%' for the full year of 2005. CAPITAL EXPENDITURE AND FREE CASH FLOW Net capital expenditure for property, plant and equipment for 2005 was realised at DKK 3.7 billion, compared to DKK 3.0 billion for 2004. The main investment projects in 2005 were the expansion of purification and filling capacity for insulin products. Free cash flow for 2005 was realised at DKK 4.8 billion compared to DKK 4.3 billion for 2004. Novo Nordisk's financial resources at the end of 2005 were DKK 11.4 billion compared to DKK 10.2 billion in 2004. Included in the financial resources are undrawn committed credit facilities of approximately DKK 7.5 billion. OUTLOOK 2006 Novo Nordisk expects at least 10% GROWTH IN SALES measured in local currencies for 2006. This is based on expectations of a strong market for insulin products in general and the continued market penetration of Novo Nordisk's insulin analogue portfolio, combined with expectations of increasing NovoSeven(R) and Norditropin(R) SimpleXx(R) sales. Given the current level of exchange rates versus Danish kroner, the sales growth rate for 2006 measured in Danish kroner is expected to be slightly higher than the growth rate measured in local currencies. For 2006, OPERATING PROFIT GROWTH measured in local currencies and excluding the impact from non-recurring items is expected to grow by around 10%, reflecting the expected higher spending on sales and marketing activities, combined with an increased number of late-stage clinical development projects. Measured in Danish kroner the growth in operating profit is expected to be slightly more than 10%, reflecting a minor positive currency impact and the absence of non-recurring income in 2006. Novo Nordisk expects a NET FINANCIAL EXPENSE of DKK 350 million in 2006, reflecting o a net financial expense of around DKK 150 million (excluding Novo Nordisk's share of profit & loss in associated companies), primarily related to deferred losses from foreign exchange hedging contracts, and o a negative impact from losses in associated companies of around DKK 200 million, primarily reflecting Novo Nordisk's share of the expected loss in ZymoGenetics Inc. Novo Nordisk expects the EFFECTIVE TAX RATE to be 30%, 1 percentage point higher than the tax rate realised for 2005. As previously stated, the tax rate for 2005 was positively impacted by the tax-exempt status of non-recurring gains related to associated companies as well as the positive impact from re-evaluation of deferred tax liabilities. Novo Nordisk plans CAPITAL EXPENDITURES of around DKK 3 billion, primarily related to the construction of additional purification and filling capacity for insulin products. DEPRECIATION, AMORTISATION AND IMPAIRMENT LOSSES are expected to be around DKK 2.1 billion and the FREE CASH FLOW to be around DKK 4 billion. All of the above expectations are provided that currency exchange rates remain at the current level for 2006. All other things being equal, movements in key invoicing currencies will impact Novo Nordisk's operating profit in 2006 as illustrated below. ANNUAL IMPACT ON NOVO NORDISK'S OPERATING PROFIT IN INVOICING CURRENCY 2006 OF A 5% MOVEMENT IN CURRENCY USD DKK 350 million JPY DKK 150 million GBP DKK 90 million USD-related DKK 100 million Note: USD-related currencies include CNY, CAD, ARS, BRL, MXN, CLP, SGD, TWD and INR Novo Nordisk has hedged expected net cash flows in US dollars, Japanese yen and British pounds for 13, 12 and 10 months, respectively. In accordance with IFRS, the financial impact from foreign exchange contracts will be included in 'Net financials' as the underlying operational cash flows materialise. LONG-TERM FINANCIAL TARGETS Following the demerger of Novozymes towards the end of 2000, Novo Nordisk communicated four long-term financial targets in early 2001. Focusing on growth, profitability, financial return and generation of cash, the four targets have served to balance short- and long-term considerations, thereby ensuring a focus on shareholder value creation. By 2005, Novo Nordisk is approaching the achievement of the long-term financial targets. The four ratios are still considered the best way to ensure value creation; however, the current targets are no longer providing sufficient guidance on the targeted financial performance on a five-year horizon. Following a review, the targets for the four ratios have been reassessed and the updated targets are illustrated below: Previous Result NEW Ratio targets 2005 TARGETS Operating margin 25% 24.0% 25% Growth in operating profit 15% 15.9% 15% Return on invested capital (ROIC) 25% 24.7%1) 30% Cash to earnings (three years' average) 60% 82.4%2) 70% 1) Excluding the non-recurring reductions in 2005 in the effective tax rate, ROIC would have been 23.9% 2) The cash to earnings ratio is 82.4% both for the year 2005 and as an average for the period 2003-2005 The updated targets are guiding the financial development of Novo Nordisk given the current scope of business activities and have been prepared assuming that currency exchange rates remain at the current level. Individually, and on a combined basis, these four financial targets are considered to be competitive compared to the overall performance of the pharmaceutical industry. The target for operating margin remains at 25%, as further productivity improvements in production and administrative areas are expected to be re-invested in research and development activities. The targeted growth in operating profit remains at 15% on average. The target allows for a deviation in an individual year if necessitated by business opportunities or market conditions. The target for return on invested capital (ROIC) measured post tax is raised from 25% to 30%. The increased target reflects the expectation of continued lower growth in invested capital compared to operating profit as well as a recurring lower effective tax rate, partly due to the lowering of the Danish corporate tax rate from 30% to 28% effective for the year 2005 onwards. The targeted cash to earnings ratio is raised from 60% to 70% reflecting the improved cash conversion ability in the last three years. As previously, this target will be pursued as an average over a three-year period. Performance measured by this ratio may be impacted in individual years by significant in-licensing activities or other major investments. RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT UPDATE DIABETES CARE In November, Novo Nordisk filed for marketing approval of Levemir(R) in Japan. As is already the case in the US and Europe, Novo Nordisk expects, upon approval of the product, to be the first and only company with both rapid-acting, premixed and long-acting insulin analogues in Japan. In Japan, Novo Nordisk has been informed by the Japanese regulatory authorities that additional data for the NovoMix(R) 50 filing will be required for approval. Novo Nordisk is currently planning the initiation of the necessary additional clinical trials. In the US, the FDA has approved a label expansion for NovoLog(R) Mix 70/30. Key additions to the label include blood glucose control data showing that more patients on a NovoLog(R) Mix 70/30 regimen reach an HbA1c target of 7.0% compared to treatment with a basal insulin analogue. The label expansion is expected to support further market share gains for NovoLog(R) Mix 70/30 in the US market. As previously communicated, the phase 2b study with liraglutide was successfully completed in November 2005. The results from the 14-week study showed an improvement of long-term glycaemic control, as measured by haemoglobinA1c (HbA1c), of between 1.5 and 2 percentage points by treatment with liraglutide compared to placebo. Liraglutide was well tolerated and nausea was reported at a level of 5-10%. There were no cases of major or minor hypoglycaemia in spite of the impressive glycaemic control. Phase 3 studies with liraglutide including approximately 3,800 patients are still expected to start in February 2006. The additional strip and device optimisation and validation in the AERx(R) iDMS project is almost completed. Novo Nordisk now expects to confirm during the first quarter of 2006 the re-initiation of the remaining phase 3 studies. This confirmation will partly be subject to FDA's acceptance of the final specifications for the AERx(R) system. In October, Novo Nordisk initiated a phase 1 study with a novel oral antidiabetic compound. The compound targets a pathway which is distinct from currently marketed OADs. Finally, a new-generation insulin preparation with improved properties has entered clinical development in phase 1. This is closely in line with Novo Nordisk's commitment to continuously improve the portfolio of insulin products through innovation. BIOPHARMACEUTICALS Novo Nordisk has initiated a phase 2 clinical study in Japan with NovoSeven(R) for the treatment of intracerebral haemorrhage (ICH). The study is expected to include around 100 patients and to be completed during 2007. In October, Novo Nordisk filed in the EU for marketing approval of NovoSeven(R) in ICH, based on results of clinical phase 2 trials. Novo Nordisk has received preliminary feedback from EMEA, indicating a preference for receiving additional data. Based on this, and a higher than expected recruitment rate in the ongoing global phase 3 study, Novo Nordisk will withdraw the current file and resubmit an application following the completion of phase 3. The updated application will reflect the less restrictive inclusion criteria in the phase 3 trial. This trial, now expected to be completed by the end of 2006, is aimed at satisfying the needs of regulatory agencies for approval worldwide outside Japan. The NovoSeven(R) phase 3 clinical study in trauma outside the US is continuing as planned. As previously communicated, the study includes mortality as a primary study outcome and is expected to include around 1,500 patients. In the US, the FDA has asked for additional data related to the feasibility of conducting a NovoSeven(R) phase 3 clinical study in trauma without a waiver of informed consent. Therefore, Novo Nordisk has decided to initiate a phase 3 study without a waiver of informed consent, with the same primary end-point as the non-US trial, in order to provide the required data to the FDA. Novo Nordisk expects this process to take at least one year, but the timeline will ultimately depend on how the FDA interprets preliminary patient enrolment data from the study conducted without a waiver of informed consent. Novo Nordisk filed in December for marketing approval in the US of NovoSeven(R) for treatment of bleeding episodes in patients with acquired haemophilia. Novo Nordisk expects to finalise four ongoing phase 2 studies with NovoSeven(R) within traumatic brain injury, cardiac surgery, spinal surgery and upper gastro-intestinal bleeds, respectively, in the second half of 2006. In the HRT area, Novo Nordisk now expects to file in February 2006 in Europe and the US for marketing approval of an ultra-low-dose version of Activelle(R) (Activella(R) in the US). EQUITY Total equity was DKK 27,634 million at the end of 2005, equal to 65.9% of total assets, compared to 70.8% at the end of 2004. The lower equity ratio reflects the accelerated completion of the DKK 5 billion share repurchase programme as well as unrealised losses on cash flow hedges, deferred as part of net equity for profit and loss recognition in 2006 and 2007. Please refer to appendix 4 for further elaboration of changes in equity during 2005. PROPOSED DIVIDEND AND REDUCTION OF SHARE CAPITAL At the Annual General Meeting on 8 March 2006, the Board of Directors will propose a 25% increase in dividend to DKK 6.00 per share of DKK 2, corresponding to a pay-out ratio of 33.2%, compared to 31.8% for the financial year 2004. No dividend will be paid on the company's holding of treasury B shares. In order to maintain capital structure flexibility the Board of Directors will also propose a reduction in the B share capital, by cancellation of nominally DKK 35.5 million (17,734,708 shares) of current treasury B shares, to DKK 566.4 million. This corresponds to a 5% reduction of the total share capital. TREASURY SHARES AND SHARE REPURCHASE PROGRAMME As per 27 January 2006, Novo Nordisk A/S and its wholly-owned affiliates owned 30,979,219 of its own B shares, corresponding to 8.73% of the total share capital. During the fourth quarter of 2005, a total of 914,135 B shares were disposed of to employees under the general employee share programme and to employees who exercised stock options granted by Novo Nordisk. During 2005, Novo Nordisk purchased 9,657,118 B shares at a cash value of DKK 3 billion which, combined with the DKK 2 billion worth of B shares repurchased during 2004, completes the share repurchase programme of DKK 5 billion announced in April 2004. The Board of Directors has approved the initiation of a new share repurchase programme of DKK 6 billion to be repurchased during 2006 and 2007. The objective is to align Novo Nordisk's capital structure to the expected positive development in free cash flow. The completion of the new programme will be subject to the shareholders' approval at the Annual General Meeting on 8 March 2006 of the proposed reduction of the company's share capital. The repurchased shares will be kept as treasury shares and the value of the repurchased shares will, in accordance with Novo Nordisk's accounting policies, be written off against equity. A corresponding reduction will be made in 'number of shares outstanding' used in the calculation of Novo Nordisk's financial ratios. CORPORATE GOVERNANCE LONG-TERM SHARE-BASED INCENTIVE PROGRAMME As from 2004, Novo Nordisk's Executive Management and the Senior Management Board (26 in total) participate in a performance-based incentive programme where Novo Nordisk B shares are allocated annually to a bonus pool when certain predefined business-related targets have been achieved. The annual maximum allocation of shares to the bonus pool is capped at the equivalent of eight months of salary on average per participant. The shares in the bonus pool are locked up for a three-year period before they are transferred to the executives at the expiry of the three-year lock-up period. Based on an assessment of the economic value generated in 2005 as well as the performance of the R&D portfolio and key sustainability projects, the Board of Directors on 26 January 2006 approved the establishment of a bonus pool for 2005 by allocating a total of 116,013 Novo Nordisk B shares, corresponding to a cash value of DKK 35.5 million. This allocation amounts to seven months of salary on average per participant. SHARE OPTION PROGRAMME The grant of share options to approximately 400 senior employees, excluding the members of Executive Management and the Senior Management Board, in accordance with Novo Nordisk's share option programme is subject to the achievement of shareholder value-based targets as determined by the Board of Directors. For 2005, targets were established for operating profit and return on invested capital, respectively, in addition to a number of non-financial targets for the performance of the R&D portfolio and key sustainability projects. These non-financial targets are identical to the targets included in the long-term share-based incentive programme for Executive Management and the Senior Management Board. As the majority of the non-financial targets and both financial targets for 2005 were achieved, a total of 820,234 share options will be granted at an exercise price of DKK 306 per option. The options can be exercised in the period 31 January 2009 - 30 January 2014. The value of the share option programme is estimated to be DKK 47 million, based on the Black-Scholes model. The company's holding of its own shares will cover this commitment. COMPLIANCE WITH SARBANES-OXLEY REQUIREMENTS In 2005, Novo Nordisk completed the process of becoming compliant with the Sarbanes-Oxley Act section 404 that requires detailed documentation of how financial reporting processes are designed and operating: the flow of information, and systems and controls supporting the reporting processes. Novo Nordisk must ensure that there are no material weaknesses in the internal controls which could lead to a material misstatement in the company's financial reporting. Novo Nordisk will include a conclusion on the evaluation of the financial reporting processes and the auditors' evaluation hereof in the so-called Form 20-F filing to the US Securities and Exchange Commission, which is expected to be submitted in February 2006. Compliance with these requirements as a foreign registrant on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) is only required by the end of 2006 and, hence, Novo Nordisk's compliance with section 404 is achieved one year ahead of requirements. SUSTAINABILITY ISSUES UPDATE TARGETS FOR ECO-EFFICIENCY ACHIEVED In 2005, Novo Nordisk continued to improve eco-efficiency, a measure for the ability to produce more pharmaceutical products with use of less energy and water. The five-year targets of annual improvements of the water and energy use efficiency at 5% and 4%, respectively, have been exceeded. Total realised improvements for 2001 to 2005 were 49% for water and 84% for energy. TARGET SET TO ACHIEVE REDUCTION OF CO2 EMISSIONS By 2014, Novo Nordisk will reduce its CO2 emissions by 10% compared to 2004 emission levels. This is an ambitious target for the company's climate strategy, considering that Novo Nordisk emissions would increase by an estimated 60-70% in the absence of emission reduction programmes. The target has been defined in an agreement with the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF), which makes Novo Nordisk the 10th company in the world to become a member of the Climate Savers Programme. The significant CO2 reductions will be achieved through a broad range of measures including improved energy efficiency, fuel switching and conversion to renewable sources such as wind and solar energy. Currently 90% of the company's CO2 emissions arise in Denmark where the energy supplies are predominantly based on fossil fuels. BUSINESS ETHICS POLICY IMPLEMENTED Novo Nordisk has implemented a new global business ethics policy supported by a set of standard operating procedures. The policy adheres to the principles of the UN Convention against Corruption and the Global Compact. Implementation measures include training of relevant staff, an advisory function and compliance audits. LEGAL ISSUES UPDATE US HORMONE THERAPY LITIGATION As of 26 January 2006, Novo Nordisk Inc, as the majority of hormone therapy product manufacturers in the US, is a defendant in product liability lawsuits related to hormone therapy products. These lawsuits currently involve a total of 37 individuals (as compared to 34 individuals in October 2005) who allege to have used a Novo Nordisk hormone therapy product. These products (Activella(R) and Vagifem(R)) have been sold and marketed in the US since 2000. Until July 2003, the products were sold and marketed exclusively in the US by Pharmacia & Upjohn Company (now Pfizer Inc). According to information received from Pfizer, an additional 13 individuals (as compared to 16 individuals in October 2005) currently allege, in relation to similar lawsuits against Pfizer Inc, that they also have used a Novo Nordisk hormone therapy product. Currently, it is expected that the first trial may take place in the third or fourth quarter of 2006; however, Novo Nordisk does not expect the claims to impact the company's financial outlook. US SUBPOENA In December 2005, the office of the US Attorney for the Eastern District of New York served Novo Nordisk with a subpoena calling for the production of documents relating to the company's US marketing and promotional practices. Novo Nordisk believes that the investigation is limited to its insulin products. The subpoena indicates that the documents are necessary for the investigation of potential criminal offences relating to healthcare benefit programmes. Novo Nordisk is cooperating with the US Attorney in this investigation. Financial calendar 2 February 2006 - PDF version of the Annual Report available on novonordisk.com 13 February 2006 - Printed and online versions of the Annual Report 8 March 2006 - Annual General Meeting 28 April 2006 - Financial statement for the first quarter of 2006 2 August 2006 - Financial statement for the first half of 2006 27 October 2006 - Financial statement for the first nine months of 2006 31 January 2007 - Financial statement for 2006 CONFERENCE CALL DETAILS At 11.00 CET today, corresponding to 10.00 am London time and 5.00 am New York time, a conference call will be held. Investors will be able to listen in via a link on novonordisk.com. This link can be found under 'Investors - Conference call'. Presentation material for the conference call will be made available approximately one hour before on the same page. FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENT The above sections contain forward-looking statements as the term is defined in the US Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements provide current expectations or forecasts of events such as new product introductions, product approvals and financial performance. Such forward-looking statements are subject to risks, uncertainties and inaccurate assumptions. This may cause actual results to differ materially from expectations. Factors that may affect future results include interest rate and currency exchange rate fluctuations, delay or failure of development projects, production problems, unexpected contract breaches or terminations, government-mandated or market-driven price decreases for Novo Nordisk's products, introduction of competing products, Novo Nordisk's ability to successfully market both new and existing products, exposure to product liability and other lawsuits, changes in reimbursement rules and governmental laws and related interpretation thereof, and unexpected growth in costs and expenses. Risks and uncertainties are further described in reports filed by Novo Nordisk with the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) including the company's Form 20-F, which was filed on 21 February 2005. Please also refer to the section 'Risk Management' in the Annual Report 2005. Novo Nordisk is under no duty to update any of the forward-looking statements or to conform such statements to actual results, unless required by law. Bagsvaerd 27 January 2006 Board of Directors Contacts for further information Media: Investors: Outside North America: Outside North America: Mike Rulis Mogens Thorsager Jensen Tel: (+45) 4442 3573 Tel: (+45) 4442 7945 E-mail: mike@novonordisk.com E-mail: mtj@novonordisk.com Christian Qvist Frandsen Tel: (+45) 4443 5182 E-mail: cqfr@novonordisk.com In North America: In North America: Susan T Jackson Mads Veggerby Lausten Tel: (+1) 609 919 7776 Tel: (+1) 609 919 7937 E-mail: stja@novonordisk.com E-mail: mlau@novonordisk.com Further information on Novo Nordisk is available on the company's internet homepage at the address novonordisk.com APPENDIX 1: CONSOLIDATED INCOME STATEMENT DKK million 2005 2004 Sales 33,760 29,031 Cost of goods sold 9,177 8,050 GROSS PROFIT 24,583 20,981 Sales and distribution costs 9,691 8,280 Research and development costs 5,085 4,352 Administrative expenses 2,122 1,944 Licence fees and other operating income (net) 403 575 OPERATING PROFIT 8,088 6,980 Share of profit/(loss) in associated companies 319 (117) Financial income 498 898 Financial expenses 671 304 PROFIT BEFORE INCOME TAXES 8,234 7,457 Income taxes 2,370 2,444 NET PROFIT 5,864 5,013 BASIC EARNINGS PER SHARE (DKK) 17.89 14.89 DILUTED EARNINGS PER SHARE (DKK) 17.83 14.83 SEGMENT SALES: Diabetes care 24,012 20,533 Biopharmaceuticals 9,748 8,498 SEGMENT OPERATING PROFIT: Diabetes care 4,055 3,404 Operating margin 16.9% 16.6% Biopharmaceuticals 4,033 3,576 Operating margin 41.4% 42.1% APPENDIX 2: CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET DKK million 31DEC2005 31Dec2004 ASSETS Intangible assets 485 314 Property, plant and equipment 19,941 17,559 Investments in associated companies 926 883 Deferred income tax assets 879 769 Other financial assets 169 159 TOTAL LONG-TERM ASSETS 22,400 19,684 Inventories 7,782 7,163 Trade receivables 4,794 4,062 Tax receivables 504 710 Other receivables 1,455 1,040 Marketable securities and financial derivatives 1,722 1,341 Cash at bank and in hand 3,303 3,433 TOTAL CURRENT ASSETS 19,560 17,749 TOTAL ASSETS 41,960 37,433 EQUITY AND LIABILITIES Share capital 709 709 Treasury shares (61) (45) Share premium account - 2,565 Retained earnings 26,962 22,671 Other comprehensive income 24 604 TOTAL EQUITY 27,634 26,504 Long-term debt 1,248 1,188 Deferred income tax liabilities 1,846 1,853 Provision for pensions 316 250 Other provisions 335 358 TOTAL LONG-TERM LIABILITIES 3,745 3,649 Short-term debt and financial derivatives 1,444 507 Trade payables 1,500 1,061 Tax payables 676 631 Other liabilities 4,577 3,721 Other provisions 2,384 1,360 TOTAL CURRENT LIABILITIES 10,581 7,280 TOTAL LIABILITIES 14,326 10,929 TOTAL EQUITY AND LIABILITIES 41,960 37,433 Note: Financial derivatives have been reclassified from Other receivables to Marketable securities and financial derivatives. The calculation of ROIC has been adjusted accordingly. APPENDIX 3: CONSOLIDATED CASH FLOW STATEMENT AND FINANCIAL RESOURCES DKK million 2005 2004 NET PROFIT 5,864 5,013 Reversals with no effect on cash flow: Income taxes 2,370 2,444 Depreciation, amortisation and impairment losses 1,930 1,892 Interest income and interest expenses 44 (128) Other reversals with no effect on cash flow 1,109 1,018 Income taxes paid (2,138) (2,866) Interest received and interest paid (net) (73) 109 CASH FLOW BEFORE CHANGE IN WORKING CAPITAL 9,106 7,482 CHANGE IN WORKING CAPITAL: (Increase)/decrease in trade receivables and other receivables (1,139) 211 (Increase)/decrease in inventories (618) (623) Increase/(decrease) in trade payables and other liabilities 1,363 519 CASH FLOW FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES 8,712 7,589 INVESTMENTS: Sale of intangible assets and long-term financial assets 400 - Acquisition of subsidiaries and business units (350) - Purchase of intangible assets and long-term financial assets (264) (312) Sale of property, plant and equipment 234 140 Purchase of property, plant and equipment (3,899) (3,139) Net change in marketable securities (maturity exceeding three months) (1,032) 1,310 CASH FLOW FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES (4,911) (2,001) FINANCING: New long-term debt - 505 Repayment of long-term debt (29) (574) Purchase of treasury shares (3,018) (1,982) Sale of treasury shares 206 87 Dividends paid (1,594) (1,488) CASH FLOW FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES (4,435) (3,452) NET CASH FLOW (634) 2,136 Unrealised gain/(loss) on exchange rates and marketable securities included in cash and cash equivalents 154 (14) NET CHANGE IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS (480) 2,122 Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the year 2,963 841 CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AT THE END OF THE YEAR 2,483 2,963 Bonds with term to maturity exceeding three months 1,502 508 Undrawn committed credit facilities 7,461 6,694 FINANCIAL RESOURCES AT THE END OF THE YEAR 11,446 10,165 Cash flow from operating activities 8,712 7,589 + Cash flow from investing activities (4,911) (2,001) - Net change in marketable securities (maturity exceeding three months) (1,032) 1,310 FREE CASH FLOW 4,833 4,278 APPENDIX 4: CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN EQUITY Other comprehensive income Deferred Share Exchange gain/loss on Share Treasury Premium Retained rate cash flow Other DKK million capital shares account earnings adjustments hedges adjustments TOTAL 2005 Balance at the beginning of the year 709 (45) 2,565 22,671 (40) 461 183 26,504 Exchange rate adjustment of investments in subsidiaries 182 182 Deferred (gain)/loss on cash flow hedges at the beginning of the year recognised in the Income statement for the year (461) (461) Deferred gain/(loss) on cash flow hedges at the end of the year (345) (345) Other adjustments 29 44 73 Net income recognised directly in equity - - - 29 182 (806) 44 (551) Net profit for the year 5,864 5,864 Total income for the year - - - 5,893 182 (806) 44 5,313 Cost of share-based payment 223 223 Purchase of treasury shares (19) (2,999) (3,018) Sale of treasury shares 3 203 206 Transfer of share premium account to retained earnings*) (2,565) 2,565 - Dividends (1,594) (1,594) BALANCE AT THE END OF THE YEAR 709 (61) - 26,962 142 (345) 227 27,634 *) In accordance with changes in the Danish Companies Act the share premium account is transferred to retained earnings. At the end of the year proposed dividends of DKK 1,945 million are included in retained earnings. No dividend is declared on treasury shares. 2004 Balance at the beginning of the year 709 (33) 2,565 20,925 (79) 513 176 24,776 Exchange rate adjustment of investments in subsidiaries 39 39 Deferred (gain)/loss on cash flow hedges at the beginning of the year recognised in the Income statement for the year (513) (513) Deferred gain/(loss) on cash flow hedges at the end of the year 461 461 Other adjustments 7 7 Net income recognised directly in equity - - - - 39 (52) 7 (6) Net profit for the year 5,013 5,013 Total income for the year - - - 5,013 39 (52) 7 5,007 Cost of share-based payment 104 104 Purchase of treasury shares (13) (1,969) (1,982) Sale of treasury shares 1 86 87 Dividends (1,488) (1,488) BALANCE AT THE END OF THE YEAR 709 (45) 2,565 22,671 (40) 461 183 26,504 At the end of the year proposed dividends of DKK 1,594 million are included in retained earnings. No dividend is declared on treasury shares. APPENDIX 5: QUARTERLY NUMBERS IN DKK (Amounts in DKK million, except number of employees, earnings per share and number of shares outstanding.) % change 2005 2004 Q42004- Q4 Q3 Q2 Q1 Q4 Q3 Q2 Q1 Q4 2005 SALES 9,426 8,793 8,283 7,258 7,944 7,408 7,164 6,515 19% Gross profit 6,902 6,435 6,073 5,173 5,783 5,318 5,219 4,661 19% Gross margin 73.2% 73.2% 73.3% 71.3% 72.8% 71.8% 72.9% 71.5% Sales and distribution costs 2,883 2,402 2,267 2,139 2,364 2,039 1,991 1,886 22% Percent of sales 30.6% 27.3% 27.4% 29.5% 29.8% 27.5% 27.8% 28.9% Research and development costs 1,551 1,231 1,197 1,106 1,243 1,086 983 1,040 25% Percent of sales 16.5% 14.0% 14.5% 15.2% 15.6% 14.7% 13.7% 16.0% Administrative expenses 624 545 470 483 534 502 431 477 17% Percent of sales 6.6% 6.2% 5.7% 6.7% 6.7% 6.8% 6.0% 7.3% Licence fees and other operating income (net) 79 55 202 67 213 59 71 232 -63% OPERATING PROFIT 1,923 2,312 2,341 1,512 1,855 1,750 1,885 1,490 4% Operating margin 20.4% 26.3% 28.3% 20.8% 23.4% 23.6% 26.3% 22.9% Share of profit/(loss) in associated companies (25) 149 (43) 238 (20) 12 (40) (69) 25% Financial income 88 58 238 114 491 125 104 178 -82% Financial expenses 299 103 193 76 186 52 44 22 61% Profit before taxation 1,687 2,416 2,343 1,788 2,140 1,835 1,905 1,577 -21% NET PROFIT 1,196 1,752 1,684 1,232 1,462 1,226 1,272 1,053 -18% Depreciation, amortisation and impairment losses 537 559 422 412 549 576 387 380 -2% Capital expenditure 1,120 1,087 735 723 1,092 873 642 392 3% Cash flow from operating activities 2,359 2,905 2,105 1,343 2,039 2,490 1,710 1,350 16% Free cash flow 1,147 1,740 1,332 614 839 1,597 956 886 37% Equity 27,634 26,589 25,620 25,729 26,504 25,557 24,827 23,942 4% Total assets 41,960 40,181 37,731 36,497 37,433 35,587 34,248 33,838 12% Equity ratio 65.9% 66.2% 67.9% 70.5% 70.8% 71.8% 72.5% 70.8% Full-time employees at the end of the period 22,007 21,631 21,246 20,942 20,285 20,001 19,631 19,179 8% Diluted earnings per share (in DKK)* 3.68 5.36 5.09 3.70 4.37 3.63 3.74 3.10 -16% Average number of shares outstanding (million)* - used for diluted earnings per share 324.8 326.9 330.8 333.2 334.7 338.2 339.8 339.8 -3% Sales by business segments: Insulin analogues 2,229 1,929 1,692 1,448 1,332 1,252 1,037 886 67% Human insulin and insulin-related sales 4,036 3,871 3,753 3,346 3,944 3,593 3,640 3,206 2% Oral antidiabetic products (OAD) 454 487 391 376 403 445 379 416 13% DIABETES CARE TOTAL 6,719 6,287 5,836 5,170 5,679 5,290 5,056 4,508 18% NovoSeven(R) 1,390 1,336 1,248 1,090 1,170 1,086 1,084 1,019 19% Growth hormone therapy 781 700 704 596 651 559 557 550 20% Hormone replacement therapy 421 406 410 328 364 396 389 339 16% Other products 115 64 85 74 80 77 78 99 44% BIOPHARMACEUTICALS TOTAL 2,707 2,506 2,447 2,088 2,265 2,118 2,108 2,007 20% Sales by geographic segments: Europe 3,602 3,434 3,405 3,006 3,364 3,057 3,106 2,884 7% North America 2,696 2,462 2,282 2,092 1,816 2,098 1,837 1,727 48% International Operations 1,797 1,750 1,395 1,128 1,559 1,171 1,134 980 15% Japan & Oceania 1,331 1,147 1,201 1,032 1,205 1,082 1,087 924 10% Segment operating profit: Diabetes care 909 1,161 1,235 750 1,047 746 936 675 -13% Biopharmaceuticals 1,014 1,151 1,106 762 808 1,004 949 815 25% *) For Q4 2005 diluted earnings per share/ADR of a nominal value of DKK 2, which include options on Novo Nordisk's treasury shares with an exercise price below current market value, have been based on an average number of shares of 324,764,318. APPENDIX 6: QUARTERLY NUMBERS IN EUR (Amounts in EUR million, except number of employees, earnings per share and number of shares outstanding.) Key figures are translated into EUR as supplementary information - the translation is based on average exchange rate for income statement and exchange rate at the balance sheet date for balance sheet items. % change 2005 2004 Q42004- Q4 Q3 Q2 Q1 Q4 Q3 Q2 Q1 Q4 2005 SALES 1,264 1,179 1,113 975 1,068 997 962 875 19% Gross profit 925 863 816 695 778 715 701 626 19% Gross margin 73.2% 73.2% 73.3% 71.3% 72.8% 71.8% 72.9% 71.5% Sales and distribution costs 387 322 305 287 318 274 268 253 22% Percent of sales 30.6% 27.3% 27.4% 29.5% 29.8% 27.5% 27.8% 28.9% Research and development costs 208 165 160 149 167 146 132 140 25% Percent of sales 16.5% 14.0% 14.5% 15.2% 15.6% 14.7% 13.7% 16.0% Administrative expenses 84 73 63 65 72 67 58 64 17% Percent of sales 6.6% 6.2% 5.7% 6.7% 6.7% 6.8% 6.0% 7.3% Licence fees and other operating income (net) 11 7 27 9 28 8 10 31 -63% OPERATING PROFIT 257 310 315 203 249 236 253 200 4% Operating margin 20.4% 26.3% 28.3% 20.8% 23.4% 23.6% 26.3% 22.9% Share of profit in associated R&D companies (3) 20 (6) 32 (1) - (5) (9) 25% Financial income 12 8 32 15 65 17 14 24 -82% Financial expenses 40 14 26 10 25 7 6 3 61% Profit before taxation 226 324 315 240 288 246 256 212 -21% NET PROFIT 160 235 226 166 197 165 171 141 -18% Depreciation, amortisation and impairment losses 72 75 57 55 74 77 52 51 -2% Capital expenditure 150 146 99 97 147 117 86 53 3% Cash flow from operating activities 316 390 283 180 274 335 230 181 16% Free cash flow 154 234 179 82 113 215 128 119 37% Equity 3,704 3,563 3,438 3,454 3,563 3,434 3,340 3,216 4% Total assets 5,624 5,384 5,064 4,899 5,033 4,782 4,608 4,545 12% Equity ratio 65.9% 66.2% 67.9% 70.5% 70.8% 71.8% 72.5% 70.8% Full-time employees at the end of the period 22,007 21,631 21,246 20,942 20,285 20,001 19,631 19,179 8% Diluted earnings per share (in EUR)* 0.49 0.72 0.68 0.50 0.58 0.49 0.50 0.42 -16% Average number of shares outstanding (million)* - used for diluted earnings per share 324.8 326.9 330.8 333.2 334.7 338.2 339.8 339.8 -3% Sales by business segments: Insulin analogues 299 258 227 195 179 169 139 119 67% Human insulin and insulin-related sales 541 520 504 450 531 483 489 430 2% Oral antidiabetic products (OAD) 61 65 52 51 54 60 51 56 13% DIABETES CARE TOTAL 901 843 783 696 764 712 679 605 18% NovoSeven(R) 187 179 168 146 157 147 145 137 19% Growth hormone therapy 105 93 95 80 87 75 75 74 20% Hormone replacement therapy 56 55 55 44 49 53 52 46 16% Other products 15 9 12 9 11 10 11 13 44% BIOPHARMACEUTICALS TOTAL 363 336 330 279 304 285 283 270 20% Sales by geographic segments: Europe 484 460 457 404 452 411 418 387 7% North America 361 330 307 281 244 282 247 232 48% International Operations 241 235 187 152 210 157 152 132 15% Japan & Oceania 178 154 162 138 162 147 145 124 10% Segment operating profit: Diabetes care 121 156 166 101 141 101 125 91 -13% Biopharmaceuticals 136 154 149 102 108 135 128 109 25% *) For Q4 2005 diluted earnings per share/ADR of a nominal value of DKK 2, which include options on Novo Nordisk's treasury shares with an exercise price below current market value, have been based on an average number of shares of 324,764,318. SIGNATURES Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf of the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized. Date: January 31 2006 NOVO NORDISK A/S --------------------------------------------------- Lars Rebien Sorensen, President and Chief Executive Officer