Indian drugmakers flood market with cheaper versions of Novo's Ozempic, Wegovy

By Admin

24 Mar, 2026

India’s pharmaceutical industry has moved swiftly to capitalize on the expiration of the semaglutide patent, launching a wave of affordable alternatives to Novo Nordisk’s blockbuster drugs Ozempic and Wegovy. The development is expected to significantly reduce treatment costs for diabetes and obesity, while intensifying competition in the rapidly expanding global weight-loss drug market.

Patent Expiry Opens the Floodgates

On March 23, multiple Indian generic drugmakers introduced cheaper versions of semaglutide, the active ingredient in Ozempic and Wegovy. The patent for semaglutide expired in India last week, paving the way for widespread production. At least half a dozen companies launched their products over the weekend, with treatment costs reportedly slashed by about 70% compared to branded versions.

Industry analysts anticipate that more than 40 Indian drugmakers could introduce over 50 generic variants in the coming months. This surge is expected to increase accessibility for patients and intensify price competition in both domestic and international markets.

India Targets the $100 Billion Obesity Market

Indian pharmaceutical companies are also positioning themselves for global expansion. With the obesity treatment market projected to reach around $100 billion by the end of the decade, companies are eyeing international markets such as Canada, Brazil, Latin America, and Turkey for future launches. The availability of cost-effective alternatives could give Indian manufacturers a competitive advantage in price-sensitive regions.

Key Indian Drugmakers Launching Generic Semaglutide

Sun Pharmaceutical
India’s largest drugmaker launched semaglutide injections under the brand name Noveltreat for chronic weight management in five dose strengths ranging from 0.25 mg to 2.4 mg. It also introduced Sematrinity for type 2 diabetes in two dose strengths.

• Noveltreat weekly cost: ₹900–₹2000

• Sematrinity weekly cost: ₹750–₹1300

Dr Reddy’s Laboratories
The Hyderabad-based company launched Obeda, a disposable pen device available in 2 mg and 4 mg strengths for diabetes treatment. Each pen provides at least four weekly doses.

• Monthly cost: around ₹4200

Zydus Lifesciences
Zydus introduced generic semaglutide under three brand names: Semaglyn, Mashema, and Alterme. These are available in reusable pen devices for diabetes and obesity treatment.

• Average monthly cost: approximately ₹2200

Torrent Pharmaceuticals
Torrent launched both oral and injectable semaglutide versions under Sembolic and Semalix.

• Starting price for injectable: ₹3999 per month

Glenmark Pharmaceuticals
Glenmark introduced injectable semaglutide branded as GLIPIQ in vial and pen formats for diabetes treatment.

• Estimated monthly cost: ₹1300–₹1760

Alkem Laboratories
Alkem launched semaglutide under Semasize, Obesema, and Hepaglide, available in pre-filled disposable injection pens.

• Starting price: ₹1800 per month

Eris Lifesciences
Eris introduced semaglutide in vial format under the brand name Sundae. The company is also partnering with Natco Pharma for commercial manufacturing.

• Starting price: ₹1290 per month

Impact on Patients and Healthcare

The entry of multiple generic versions is expected to significantly improve affordability and access for patients with type 2 diabetes and obesity. Lower prices could also encourage broader adoption of semaglutide-based therapies, which have gained global attention for their effectiveness in blood sugar control and weight management.

Growing Competition Ahead

With dozens of additional launches expected, the Indian semaglutide market is set to become highly competitive. This increased competition may drive prices even lower and accelerate innovation in delivery formats such as reusable pens, oral tablets, and multi-dose vials.

As Indian pharmaceutical companies expand their presence globally, their cost-efficient manufacturing capabilities could reshape the accessibility of obesity and diabetes treatments worldwide.