New Delhi: Leading Sun Pharmaceutical Industries, Zydus Lifesciences and Dr Reddy's Laboratories have launched generic semaglutide injections in India, offering more affordable treatment options for patients with Type 2 diabetes and obesity following the expiry of the drug's patent.
The launches come shortly after Hyderabad-based Natco Pharma introduced its generic version of semaglutide injection, priced at around ₹1,290 per month, signalling increased competition in the Indian diabetes drug market.
Lower-cost semaglutide boosts diabetes care access in India
Semaglutide, a widely used GLP-1 receptor agonist, is known for improving glycaemic control and aiding weight management. The entry of multiple generic semaglutide brands in India is expected to significantly reduce treatment costs and expand access to advanced therapies.
Sun Pharma, Zydus, and Dr Reddy's unveil new semaglutide brands
Sun Pharma has launched its semaglutide range under the brands Noveltreat and Sematrinity. While Noveltreat is aimed at chronic weight management, Sematrinity targets patients with poorly controlled Type 2 diabetes. Weekly therapy costs range between ₹900 and ₹2,000 for Noveltreat and ₹750 to ₹1,300 for Sematrinity, making them competitive options in the affordable diabetes treatment in India segment.
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Zydus Lifesciences has introduced its semaglutide injection in a reusable multi-dose pen device, marketed as SEMAGLYN, MASHEMA and ALTERME. The monthly cost of semaglutide in India under these brands is estimated at around ₹2,200, covering both diabetes and obesity treatment.
Meanwhile, Dr Reddy's Laboratories has launched Obeda, described as India's first DCGI-approved generic semaglutide for Type 2 diabetes treatment. The drug is available in 2 mg and 4 mg pre-filled disposable pens for once-weekly use, priced at approximately ₹4,200 per month.
India's pharma industry growth and global outlook
The rollout of generic diabetes drugs in India comes amid strong growth in the pharmaceutical sector. According to the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, India's pharmaceutical exports rose 9.4 per cent in 2024-25 to $30.47 billion.
The Indian pharmaceutical industry, currently valued at around $60 billion, is projected to reach $130 billion by 2030, supported by policy initiatives and rising global demand for affordable medicines.
India ranks third globally by volume of medicines produced and exports pharmaceutical products to over 200 countries, reinforcing its position as a key player in the global generics market.
IANS