7 Pharma Firms Eye Generic Semaglutide, Prices May Fall 50% Post Patent Expiry: Report
New Delhi: Prices of widely used weight-loss drugs such as Wegovy and Ozempic are expected to drop significantly in India after the semaglutide patent expires on March 20, 2026, allowing several domestic pharmaceutical companies to launch more affordable generic versions and expand access to obesity treatment.
Semaglutide, a GLP-1 receptor agonist used for obesity and type-2 diabetes management, has so far been marketed mainly by multinational innovator companies at premium prices. Following the patent expiry, at least six to seven Indian drugmakers, including Sun Pharma, Zydus Lifesciences, Dr Reddy’s Laboratories, and Natco Pharma, are preparing to introduce generic versions, with more companies likely to enter the market.
Industry estimates suggest that generic semaglutide could be priced at around Rs 3,500 to Rs 4,000 per month for initial doses, nearly 50% lower than current branded therapies. Even after a recent price reduction, innovator products such as Wegovy still cost around Rs 10,000 per month, making them inaccessible to many patients.
India’s anti-obesity drug market, currently valued at approximately Rs 1,400 crore, is projected to grow rapidly with the availability of lower-cost generics. Analysts expect the market to double within a year and expand several-fold in the coming years as affordability improves and demand rises.
Pharmaceutical companies are ramping up manufacturing, strengthening marketing networks, and preparing product launches to capture market share once the patent expires. Sun Pharma has indicated plans to introduce generic semaglutide, including prefilled pen delivery formats, immediately after patent expiry to ensure wider availability, Times of India reported.
Experts believe that increased competition and lower pricing will significantly improve access to advanced obesity therapies and support the growing demand for effective weight-management and diabetes treatments in India.
