The landscape for weight-loss and diabetes treatment shifted dramatically over the weekend as at least six Indian pharmaceutical companies introduced generic versions of Novo Nordisk A/S’ (NYSE:NVO) blockbusters Ozempic and Wegovy.
Following the expiration of the Indian patent for semaglutide last week, these manufacturers are offering treatments at globally unmatched prices, effectively reducing costs by approximately 70%.
Indian Pharma Targets $100 Billion Global Obesity Market
Citing industry experts, Reuters report on Monday anticipates that more than 40 domestic firms will eventually release over 50 affordable variants of the drug.
Major players are looking beyond local borders, eyeing future launches in Canada, Brazil, Latin America, and Turkey to capture a portion of the global obesity market, which is forecasted to reach $100 billion by the end of the decade.
Major Generic Launches And Pricing
Sun Pharmaceutical Industries, India's largest drugmaker, debuted its injectable semaglutide under the brand Noveltreat for weight management and Sematrinity for Type 2 diabetes.
Reuters report added that weekly treatment costs are expected to range from $7.99 to $21.30, depending on the dosage.
Dr. Reddy's Laboratories (NYSE:RDY) launched its version, Obeda, in a disposable pen format. The Hyderabad-based company confirmed that each pen provides four weekly doses at a monthly cost of roughly $44.73.
Competitive Landscape In Weight-Loss Sector
Zydus Lifesciences introduced three brands—Semaglyn, Mashema, and Alterme—utilizing a reusable pen device. The company stated the average monthly treatment expense would sit near $23.43.
Meanwhile, Torrent Pharmaceuticals launched oral and injectable versions under the Sembolic and Semalix brands, with monthly injectables starting at $42.59.
Glenmark Pharmaceuticals released its injectable, GLIPIQ, available in both vial and pen formats. Monthly costs for the vial are estimated between $13.84 and $18.74.
Expanding Accessibility Through New Brands
Alkem Laboratories is offering semaglutide under the names Semasize, Obesema, and Hepaglide via pre-filled pens starting at $19.17 per month. Additionally, Eris Lifesciences launched multi-dose vials branded as ‘Sundae’ starting at $13.74 monthly, partnering with Natco Pharma for commercial manufacturing.
Most recently, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved a higher-dose version of Wegovy, marking an expansion of its treatment portfolio for adults with obesity.
The newly approved Wegovy HD (semaglutide) injection 7.2 mg is for patients who have already tolerated the currently approved 2.4 mg dose and require additional weight reduction.
Last week, Novo Nordisk collaborated with Hims & Hers Health, Inc. (NYSE:HIMS) to soon offer access to the only FDA-approved GLP-1 weight-loss pill, alongside injectable Wegovy in all dosages.
The telehealth company also plans to offer Ozempic injections in all available dosages at cash-pay prices starting at $149 a month.
NVO Price Action: Novo Nordisk shares were up 0.22% at $36.62 during premarket trading on Monday, according to Benzinga Pro data.
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