Multiple Indian pharmaceutical companies have introduced budget-friendly alternatives to the popular diabetes and weight-loss medications Ozempic and Wegovy, following the expiration of key patent protections in India last week.
The patent covering semaglutide, the primary component in Novo Nordisk’s blockbuster medications, lapsed in India, opening the door for domestic manufacturers to introduce their own versions at significantly reduced prices—approximately 70% less than the original drugs.
Industry experts anticipate that more than 40 Indian pharmaceutical companies will introduce over 50 alternative versions of the medication as they compete for market share in the global obesity treatment sector, which analysts project will reach $100 billion in value by 2030.
These manufacturers are also planning international expansion into markets including Canada, Brazil, other Latin American countries, and Turkey.
Sun Pharmaceutical, India’s top revenue-generating drug company, introduced two semaglutide products: Noveltreat for weight management and Sematrinity for diabetes treatment. Noveltreat carries a weekly price range of 900 to 2,000 rupees ($9.58-$21.30), while Sematrinity costs between 750 and 1,300 rupees ($7.99-$13.84) weekly.
Dr Reddy’s Laboratories from Hyderabad released Obeda for diabetes management in disposable pen format, with monthly costs around 4,200 rupees ($44.73) for either dosage strength.
Zydus Lifesciences introduced three branded versions—Semaglyn, Mashema, and Alterme—using reusable pen devices, with average monthly treatment costs of approximately 2,200 rupees ($23.43).
Torrent Pharmaceuticals developed both oral and injectable formulations under the names Sembolic and Semalix, with injectable versions starting at 3,999 rupees ($42.59) monthly.
Glenmark Pharmaceuticals launched GLIPIQ in both vial and pen formats for diabetes, with vial costs ranging from 1,300 to 1,760 rupees ($13.84-$18.74) for monthly use.
Alkem Laboratories created three branded products—Semasize, Obesema, and Hepaglide—in pre-filled disposable pens, with pricing beginning at 1,800 rupees ($19.17) per month.
Eris Lifesciences introduced Sundae in vial format, priced starting at 1,290 rupees ($13.74) monthly. The company has partnered with Natco Pharma for commercial production of the medication.
