Ozempic/Wegovy for $3: Global Access Looms

Injectable semaglutide, marketed as Ozempic for diabetes and Wegovy for obesity, could soon be produced for approximately $3 per monthly dose, according to new analysis. This price point has the potential to make the essential medicine accessible to millions worldwide, particularly in lower-income nations. Core patents for semaglutide are set to expire in 10 countries, including Brazil, China, India, and South Africa, beginning March 21, paving the way for generic competition.

Researchers identified an additional 150 countries, including most of Africa, where patents have not been filed. These 160 countries collectively account for 69% of the global type 2 diabetes population and 84% of individuals living with obesity. This breakthrough offers a model for widespread access similar to that seen with HIV and malaria treatments, where affordable generic options ensure sustainable supply.

While cheaper treatments are a significant step, experts caution that they do not address the underlying structural drivers of obesity, such as poverty and urbanization. Coordinated policies and procurement planning will be crucial for realizing the full benefits of accessible semaglutide. The drug, first approved in 2017, currently costs around $200 per month in the US and £120 in the UK, with patents in major markets like the US and Europe not expiring for another five years.