Home / Business and Economy / Novo Nordisk Battles Indian Drug Maker Over 'Olymviq'
Novo Nordisk Battles Indian Drug Maker Over 'Olymviq'
27 Mar
Summary
- Novo Nordisk sues Dr Reddy's over 'Olymviq' trademark for semaglutide.
- Dr Reddy's conceded to maintain status quo on 'Olymviq' brand.
- Novo Nordisk argues 'Olymviq' is phonetically similar to 'Ozempic'.
Novo Nordisk, the pharmaceutical giant behind blockbuster drugs Ozempic and Wegovy, is engaged in a legal dispute with Indian drug maker Dr Reddy's Laboratories (DRL). The core of the issue is Novo Nordisk's accusation of trademark infringement, specifically concerning DRL's semaglutide formulation. Novo Nordisk argues that DRL's proposed brand name 'Olymviq' is phonetically deceptive and too similar to its own 'Ozempic' trademark.
DRL has reportedly agreed to maintain the status quo regarding the 'Olymviq' brand, ceasing further manufacturing or market release. This development follows Novo Nordisk's suit filed at the Delhi High Court. DRL had initially applied for the 'Olymviq' trademark last July, with subsequent applications made in March. The company also launched its semaglutide formulation under the brand 'Obeda' for type-2 diabetes.
Novo Nordisk's argument centers on 'Ozempic' being an invented word, making 'Olymviq' a deliberate attempt to capitalize on phonetic resemblance. This legal contest underscores the high stakes in the semaglutide market, as Novo Nordisk also faces challenges related to patent expiry and generic competition in India.
