Generic Ozempic versions to launch in India, prices to drop by 50 to 70%

With the patent on Semaglutide expiring, Indian pharma companies including Dr Reddy’s, Natco, Sun Pharma, and Zydus are launching generic versions of Ozempic and similar drugs, expected to reduce monthly costs from Rs 10,000– Rs 12,000 to Rs 3,500–Rs 4,000.

Hyderabad: In a major development that is expected to benefit diabetics and obesity patients, multiple pharma companies in the country are set to launch generic versions of blockbuster drug Ozempic and other similar therapies, as the patent on Semaglutide, the drug’s active compound, expires this month.

Based on multiple reports, in the last week of this month, domestic pharma giants are preparing to launch generic versions that are expected to slash the cost of such high-demand diabetes and weight loss drugs by at least 50 per cent to 70 per cent.

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According to healthcare communicators and sector experts, the launch of these generic versions will mark a turning point for patient access, as only the affluent were able to afford such expensive drugs.

A majority of Hyderabad-based drug manufactures including Dr Reddy’s, Natco Pharma, are already on the verge of launching the generic versions of the drugs and regulatory hurdles and permissions have been secured from Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO).

Dr Reddy’s Laboratories is preparing to debut Obeda with an initial production run of nearly 12 million injectable pens, while Natco Pharma is the technical partner for Gujarat-based Eris Pharma for the launch of the generic formulation. Sun Pharma is also slated to introduce its versions under the brand names Sematrinity for Type 2 diabetes and Noveltreat for chronic weight management. Zydus Lifesciences is also expected to roll out brands like Semaglyn and Mashema, featuring innovative multi-dose pens designed for better patient convenience.

The impact on the general public is expected to be immense. At present, patients who are taking non-generic brands are spending anywhere from Rs 10,000 to Rs 12,000 per month. According to industry analysts, post the launch of generics, the cost is expected to range between Rs 3,500 and Rs 4,000 per month.