Semaglutide Patent Expires, Unleashing Cheap Generics in India

India's pharmaceutical landscape is undergoing a significant transformation as the patent on semaglutide expires.

“- Published India could soon get a lot thinner - at least in theory”

BBC

The molecule behind Novo Nordisk's blockbuster weight-loss drugs Wegovy and Ozempic is now off patent in India.

BBC

This will allow domestic pharmaceutical companies to release cheaper copies or generics.

The move will trigger intense competition that could slash prices by more than half.

Access for people in India and eventually other countries will rapidly expand.

What has until now been an expensive injection largely confined to affluent patients could soon become far more common.

The market implications of the semaglutide patent expiration are substantial.

Investment bank Jefferies has declared it a potential 'magic-pill moment' for India.

bgnes

Analysts anticipate around 50 branded semaglutide generics entering the market within months.

This follows a familiar pattern in India's fiercely competitive pharmaceutical industry.

When the diabetes drug sitagliptin went off patent in 2022, about 30 branded versions appeared within a month.

Nearly 100 versions appeared within a year, demonstrating rapid response capability.

Semaglutide belongs to a class of medicines known as GLP-1 receptor agonists.

“- Published India could soon get a lot thinner - at least in theory”

BBC

These were originally developed to treat diabetes but have become sought-after weight-loss treatments.

The drugs work by mimicking a hormone that regulates appetite and blood sugar.

They boost insulin release and slow stomach emptying to create fullness.

The medication suppresses appetite and creates a feeling of fullness.

This is particularly important for India with 77 million diabetes sufferers.

Obesity is rising due to lifestyle and dietary changes in India.

The pricing transformation expected from semaglutide generics will be dramatic.

Current monthly treatment costs range between 8,800 and 16,000 rupees.

bgnes

Prices are projected to drop to around 3,000–5,000 rupees.

This significant cost reduction will dramatically expand access.

Medications have been largely unaffordable for average Indians.

Doctors warn these are not a 'magic solution' and can cause side effects.

Side effects include nausea and digestive problems.

Effectiveness diminishes once treatment is stopped.

Experts emphasize combination with healthy diet and physical activity.

India's pharmaceutical industry is worth about $60bn and expected to double by 2030.

“- Published India could soon get a lot thinner - at least in theory”

BBC

The industry has expertise in generic drug manufacturing.

BBC

Much success is built on generics - a manufacturing muscle for semaglutide competition.

Country's capabilities allow serving domestic market and potentially export globally.

Major firms are preparing branded generics.

Cipla, Sun Pharma, Dr Reddy's Laboratories, Biocon, Natco, Zydus and Mankind Pharma are readying products.

This demonstrates industry's readiness to respond quickly to patent expirations.