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Indian Pharma Giants Launch Affordable Generic Semaglutide for Diabetes & Obesity

Three major Indian pharmaceutical companies have launched their own versions of the blockbuster drug semaglutide, following its patent expiration. Sun Pharma, Zydus Lifesciences, and Dr. Reddy's Laboratories have introduced branded generic injections, offering more affordable treatment options for Type 2 diabetes and chronic weight management. The weekly therapies are priced variably, with costs ranging from approximately Rs 750 to Rs 4,200 per month depending on the brand and dosage. This expansion in the generic market aligns with the growth of India's pharmaceutical sector, which is projected to reach $130 billion by 2030.

Key Points: Indian Generic Semaglutide Launched for Diabetes & Weight Loss

  • Affordable options post-patent expiry
  • Weekly therapy from ~Rs 750
  • Targets Type 2 diabetes & obesity
  • Boosts India's $60bn pharma sector
2 min read

Indian pharma companies launch generic semaglutide injections for diabetes

Sun Pharma, Zydus, Dr. Reddy's launch low-cost generic semaglutide injections in India after patent expiry, expanding access to diabetes & obesity treatment.

"India's first DCGI‑approved generic semaglutide for Type 2 diabetes. - Dr. Reddy's Laboratories"

New Delhi, March 21

Three Indian pharmaceutical companies have launched generic versions of semaglutide injections, after the drug's patent expired, offering lower‑cost options for patients managing Type 2 diabetes and obesity.

The companies, namely Sun Pharma, Zydus Lifesciences, and Dr. Reddy's Laboratories, launched their variants a day after Hyderabad-based Natco Pharma launched its generic semaglutide injection in India, priced at Rs 1,290 per month.

Sun Pharma launched semaglutide under the brand names Noveltreat and Sematrinity, where former is indicated for chronic weight management, and offered in five dose strengths, while latter targeted Type 2 diabetes not properly controlled and is available in two dose strengths.

The weekly therapy costs range from approximately Rs 900 to Rs 2,000 for Noveltreat, and Rs 750 to Rs 1,300 for Sematrinity, according to reports.

Zydus Lifesciences launched its semaglutide injection in a reusable multi‑dose pen device. The drug is marketed as SEMAGLYN, MASHEMA and ALTERME for both Type 2 diabetes and obesity, at an average monthly treatment cost estimated at Rs 2,200, reports mentioned.

Dr. Reddy's Laboratories announced Obeda, which it described as India's first DCGI‑approved generic semaglutide for Type 2 diabetes. The drug is sold in 2 mg and 4 mg pre‑filled disposable pens for once‑weekly use priced at Rs 4,200 per month for both strengths.

Semaglutide belongs to GLP-1 receptor agonists class, with a globally proven track record of improving glycaemic control and supporting weight management.

India's pharmaceutical exports grew by 9.4 per cent in 2024-25 to reach $30.47 billion, and the industry is now preparing to achieve double-digit growth in 2026-27 with strong government support, the Ministry of Commerce and Industry said last month.

The pharmaceutical sector, currently valued at around $60 billion, is projected to grow to $130 billion by 2030, the ministry said.

The country ranks third globally in terms of volume of medicines produced and exports its pharmaceutical products to more than 200 countries.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
Great to see our pharma giants stepping up. But the price range is still confusing - from Rs 750 to Rs 4,200? That's a huge variation. I hope there's proper oversight to ensure quality is consistent across all brands, not just the cheapest.
A
Aditya G
Jai Hind! This is why we call our pharma sector the 'pharmacy of the world'. Making life-saving drugs affordable is a matter of national pride. The $130 billion projection by 2030 seems achievable with such innovations.
S
Sarah B
As someone who works in healthcare, I'm cautiously optimistic. GLP-1 drugs are powerful but need careful monitoring. I hope doctors are given clear guidelines and patients are properly educated about side effects. Affordability is just the first step.
K
Karthik V
The reusable pen from Zydus is a smart move - reduces plastic waste and might be more cost-effective in the long run. Hope other companies follow suit. Our industry needs to think about sustainability alongside affordability.
N
Nisha Z
Finally! The obesity angle is crucial too. We often focus only on diabetes, but weight-related health issues are a massive burden. Having a treatment option under Rs 1000 per week could help so many people. 🙏

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