Home / Health / India Approves Daily Oral Diabetes Pill
India Approves Daily Oral Diabetes Pill
2 Nov
Summary
- India's Sun Pharma got approval for an oral semaglutide tablet.
- The drug aims to improve glycemic control in Type-2 diabetes patients.
- Manufacturing will occur in India, with active ingredients from China.
Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Limited has secured regulatory approval in India for a once-daily oral semaglutide tablet, a significant development for Type-2 diabetes management. This new medication, approved by the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO), is designed to improve glycemic control and is therapeutically equivalent to Novo Nordisk's Rybelsus.
The generic oral pill will be available in 3 mg, 7 mg, and 14 mg strengths. While Sun Pharma's manufacturing unit in Kamrup, Assam, will produce the drug, its active ingredient will be sourced from Zhongmeihuadong Pharmaceutical in China. This move by Sun Pharma expands its GLP-1 portfolio, which already includes injectable formulations for diabetes and weight management.
The introduction of affordable oral semaglutide marks a pivotal shift in diabetes care in India. Previously, high costs limited access to GLP-1 therapies. The increased competition from domestic manufacturers like Sun Pharma, Torrent Pharma, and Dr. Reddy's Laboratories is expected to drive down prices significantly, making these treatments more affordable.
Furthermore, the convenience of a daily oral pill, rather than injections, simplifies treatment initiation and adherence for patients. This ease of use, combined with the drug's efficacy in lowering HbA1c levels and promoting weight loss, addresses key challenges in managing diabetes, a condition prevalent in India. The patent for semaglutide expired early in 2026, paving the way for these generic entries.
