desk
Share
News Topical, Digital Desk : Domestic pharmaceutical companies have launched injections of the GLP-1 molecule (semaglutide) as its patent expires in India on March 20. This will make the diabetes and weight loss drug, sold globally under the brands Ozempic and Wegovy, available in India at significantly lower prices.
How much will the prices fall?
A one-month course of Semaglutide is now expected to be available in India for around ₹3,000–₹5,000, compared to the previous price of branded drugs of around ₹11,000. Analysts believe that as more companies enter the market, prices could drop to ₹1,500–₹2,500, meaning a total decline of up to 80% is possible.
Which companies have launched?
Zydus Lifesciences has launched Semaglutide in the form of a reusable multi-dose pen after the patent expires. This drug is for the treatment of type-2 diabetes and obesity. Its one-month course is said to cost around ₹2,200. Apart from this, big companies like Sun Pharma, Dr. Reddy's, Lupin, Natco and Mankind are also entering this market. It is estimated that more than 40 companies will launch different brands, which will increase competition and make medicines accessible to more people.
Global Supply and Expansion Plans
Dr. Reddy's Laboratories stated that it is bringing the same semaglutide to India that it supplies to the international market, and that the company has the potential to export both within India and abroad. Discussions are also underway for a launch in Canada. According to industry estimates, the market for GLP-1 drugs in India could reach $1 billion in the coming years.
Why is demand for semaglutide growing?
Semaglutide increases insulin and lowers blood sugar. It also controls appetite. Slowing stomach emptying helps promote weight loss.
Clinical trials have shown that it can lead to 10–15% weight loss, while reducing the risk of heart attack by 26% and stroke by 39%. Doctors consider it not just for sugar control, but also as a disease-modifying therapy.
Concerns are also not less.
Experts believe that a lower price will make the treatment accessible to more people, but this will increase the risk of misuse and people may take it without a doctor's advice, which could lead to harm instead of benefits.
--Advertisement--
