India’s semaglutide patent expiry is expected to lead to cheaper weight-loss drugs. Local pharmaceutical companies are preparing to release multiple generic versions. Lower prices could expand access to obesity and diabetes treatment across the country.
India is set to allow cheaper versions of semaglutide, a key ingredient in leading weight-loss drugs, after its patent expires, opening the market to domestic pharmaceutical companies and increasing access to treatment.
The patent expiry affects semaglutide, the molecule used in drugs produced by Novo Nordisk, including Wegovy and Ozempic.
With the patent now expiring in India, local pharmaceutical firms are expected to release generic versions, which could significantly reduce prices and increase availability for patients.
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Investment bank Jefferies described the development as a potential “magic-pill moment” for India, estimating that the semaglutide market could grow to $1 billion domestically if pricing and demand align.
Analysts predict that around 50 branded generic versions of semaglutide may enter the market within months, reflecting a common trend in India’s competitive pharmaceutical sector.
A similar trend was seen in 2022 when the diabetes drug sitagliptin went off patent, leading to about 30 branded versions entering the market within a month and nearly 100 within a year.
India’s pharmaceutical industry, currently valued at approximately $60 billion, is projected to double by 2030, largely driven by its strong generics manufacturing base.
Semaglutide belongs to a class of medicines known as GLP-1 receptor agonists, which help regulate appetite and blood sugar by increasing insulin release and slowing stomach emptying.
Originally developed for diabetes treatment, these drugs are now widely used for weight loss due to their effectiveness in helping patients feel full for longer periods.
Several Indian pharmaceutical companies, including Cipla, Sun Pharma, Dr Reddy’s Laboratories, Biocon, Natco, Zydus and Mankind Pharma, are preparing to introduce branded generics.
According to Sheetal Sapale, vice-president at Pharmarack, current monthly costs for these drugs are high, with Ozempic priced between 8,800 and 11,000 rupees, while Wegovy ranges from 10,000 to 16,000 rupees.
She said generic competition could reduce prices to between 3,000 and 5,000 rupees per month, making treatment more accessible to a larger population.
India’s anti-obesity drug market has already grown from about $16 million in 2021 to nearly $100 million, driven by increased demand following the launch of oral semaglutide in 2022.
The country faces a rising health challenge, with more than 77 million people living with type-2 diabetes and a large population classified as overweight.
Doctors say the availability of cheaper GLP-1 drugs could provide an important option for treating both obesity and diabetes.
