Indian Generic Semaglutide Launches Follow Novo Nordisk Patent Expiry

Seven Indian drug companies have launched generic versions of semaglutide at significantly lower prices following the expiration of Novo Nordisk's patent in India. The new GLP-1 weight loss and diabetes drugs are being sold for up to 70-80% lower than the current price of Ozempic, with various predictions suggesting at least 40-50 brands of semaglutide will be launched in India over the next few months.

Sun Pharmaceutical, India's biggest drug manufacturer by sales, has launched Noveltreat for weight management and Sematrinity for type 2 diabetes. According to the company, Noveltreat will cost between £7.19 and £15.98 for a week's treatment, while Sematrinity will cost between £5.99 and £10.39. Zydus Lifesciences debuted an injectable semaglutide through three brands: Alterme, Mashema and Semaglyn, costing around £17.59 for the month and injected via a reusable pen.

Glenmark has launched GLIPIQ in vial and pen formats for between £10.39-£14.08 for a month's treatment. Dr Reddy's Laboratories debuted a GLP-1 called Obeda to treat diabetes in 2 mg and 4 mg doses, with each disposable pen costing around £33.62 for four weeks of treatment. Torrent Pharmaceuticals launched Semaglutide drugs Sembolic and Semalix in oral and injectable forms, with starting prices at £31.24 for a month.

Alkem Laboratories has launched three semaglutide brands: Semasize, Obesema and Hepaglide, available in a disposable pen with costs starting at £14.41 a month. Eris Life Sciences launched Sundae in a vial format, with each multi-dose vial costing £10.33.

Novo Nordisk has already cut prices of its drugs by 37% in India to improve patient access, with the company reducing Wegovy's price by up to 37% last year in an effort to protect market share. The company announced in February that it was slashing prices of Ozempic, Wegovy and Rybelsus from January 1, 2027, as part of concerted efforts to improve patient access.

The Indian weight-loss drug market is expected to intensify this year as local companies prepare to launch lower-cost generic versions of Wegovy. Novo Nordisk's patent is also set to expire this year in Canada, China and Brazil, though the patent in its biggest market, the US, is secure until 2032.

Meanwhile, Eli Lilly is looking to position India as a key hub in its global supply chain as sales of its blockbuster weight-loss drug Mounjaro surge in the country. The U.S. drugmaker plans to channel part of its previously announced $1 billion investment into contract manufacturing in India, with the goal of exporting locally produced medicines to markets worldwide. Sales of Mounjaro doubled within months of its launch in India, becoming Lilly's top-selling drug by value in the country.