Forget Ozempic: This High‑Flying Device Maker Can Thrive No Matter Which Weight Loss Drug Wins

The Motley Fool
by newsfeedback@fool.com (Reuben Gregg Brewer)
February 20, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Wall Street's obsession with GLP-1 weight loss drugs overshadows a robust medical device leader, Intuitive Surgical (NASDAQ: ISRG), which continues to thrive irrespective of the outcome in the drug race. While pharmaceutical giants Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly compete fiercely over GLP-1 treatments like Ozempic, Intuitive Surgical maintains its momentum in the lucrative medical device sector. The company's innovative da Vinci robotic-assisted surgery systems are a staple in modern healthcare, driving consistent revenue growth and strong margins. Investors should consider Intuitive Surgical as a stable, long-term play due to its expanding market presence and diversification into new surgical fields such as urology and gynecology. Intuitive Surgical's success stems from its leadership in minimally invasive surgery, which offers significant advantages over traditional methods. The da Vinci system allows for greater precision and reduced recovery times, making it a preferred choice for both surgeons and patients. This technological edge positions the company to capitalize on growing demand for minimally invasive procedures globally. Moreover, Intuitive Surgical's strong financial performance reflects its ability to innovate and adapt to market trends, ensuring steady growth regardless of external factors like drug approvals or competition. For investors seeking stability and long-term returns, Intuitive Surgical stands out as a resilient investment choice. Unlike the volatile nature of pharmaceuticals tied to specific treatments, the medical device sector offers consistent demand driven by healthcare advancements and an aging population. Intuitive Surgical's focus on innovation and expanding its product portfolio further underscores its potential for sustained growth. As Wall Street buzzes over GLP-1 drugs, investors wise to Intuitive Surgical's enduring strength may find it a prudent addition to their portfolios.
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Originally published on The Motley Fool on 2/20/2026