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Generic Ozempic Lands in India, Halving Costs
16 Mar
Summary
- Indian drugmakers to launch generic weight-loss drugs post patent expiry.
- Generic versions expected to be at least 50% cheaper than original.
- India's drug regulator banned advertising for weight-loss programs.
As Novo Nordisk's key patent for semaglutide expires in India on March 20th, at least five Indian pharmaceutical companies are preparing to launch generic versions of popular weight-loss drugs. These upcoming generic medications are expected to be priced at approximately ₹5,000 for a weekly dose, representing a significant reduction of at least 50% compared to the original therapy.
This impending price drop is projected to fuel a substantial surge in demand for anti-obesity treatments across India. In anticipation, hospitals, telehealth firms, and clinics are expanding their obesity-focused services. India's drug regulator has recently prohibited advertising and promotional activities for weight-loss programs, aiming to curb aggressive commercial practices amidst this burgeoning market.
The Indian market for GLP-1 therapies is forecasted to grow fivefold to ₹5,000 crore by 2030. Experts predict Ozempic prices could decrease by 40-50% post-patent expiry, with further reductions expected as more manufacturers enter. This expansion is poised to benefit healthcare institutions, with consultants estimating significant revenue potential for facilities bundling drugs with diagnostics and follow-up care.
