Dr Reddy’s Laboratories Ltd, one of India’s leading pharmaceutical companies, plans to launch a lower-cost generic version of Novo Nordisk’s blockbuster weight-loss drug Wegovy (semaglutide) across 87 countries next year, according to the company’s Chief Executive Officer, Erez Israeli.
The main patent for Wegovy's active ingredient, semaglutide, is set to expire in early 2026 in several countries, including Canada, India, and Brazil. This expiration will allow other companies to produce generic versions of the drug, which could lead to significantly lower prices and increased competition. The move by Dr Reddy's marks a significant step in expanding access to one of the world’s most sought-after obesity treatments, currently dominated by Novo Nordisk’s Wegovy and Ozempic brands. Semaglutide, the active ingredient in these drugs, has gained global attention for its dual benefits in weight management and diabetes control.
As per ResearchAndMarkets, the Semaglutide market will reach USD 61.7 billion in 2033 from USD 27.15 billion in 2024 and is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 9.55% from 2025 to 2033.
Dr Reddy’s aims to make the treatment more affordable and accessible to emerging markets where the cost of branded versions remains a major barrier. “We plan to bring an affordable version of semaglutide to more than 80 countries by next year,” Israeli said.
The company did not specify the exact launch timeline or whether regulatory approvals have been granted in key markets. However, industry analysts say the move could help Dr Reddy’s strengthen its presence in the lucrative metabolic and diabetes care segment.
The development was first reported by Reuters, highlighting growing interest among Indian pharmaceutical companies in the fast-expanding weight-loss drug market.
Wegovy, produced by Denmark-based Novo Nordisk, has been one of the biggest-selling drugs globally, with soaring demand driven by its effectiveness in weight reduction. Several generic drugmakers, including Dr Reddy’s, are now gearing up to challenge Novo Nordisk’s market dominance once key patents begin to expire.
