With the patent expiry of semaglutide in India scheduled for March 2026, several leading Indian pharmaceutical companies are preparing to launch generic versions of the widely used diabetes and weight-loss drug.
Ahmedabad-based Zydus Lifesciences has announced plans to introduce its generic semaglutide in a reusable pen format, which is designed to improve patient convenience and long-term adherence. The product is expected to be marketed under brand names such as Semaglyn, Mashema and Altreme. The company aims to differentiate itself with an adjustable single-pen device developed in India.
Dr. Reddy's Laboratories is also gearing up for a March launch and is expected to introduce its version of semaglutide soon after patent expiry. Reports suggest the company is preparing large-scale production to capture early market share in what is expected to be a highly competitive segment.
Meanwhile, Sun Pharmaceutical Industries has received regulatory approval from India’s drug regulator to manufacture and market semaglutide. The company plans to launch the product in multiple dose strengths through user-friendly delivery devices.
In addition, Natco Pharma has partnered with Eris Lifesciences to bring a generic version to market, combining manufacturing strength with strong presence in the diabetes segment.
Semaglutide was originally developed and marketed by Novo Nordisk under brands such as Ozempic and Wegovy and has become one of the fastest-growing drug categories in the world due to its strong results in blood sugar control and weight reduction. According to a recent industry report, the global semaglutide market was valued at about USD 28.4 billion in 2024 and is projected to grow to around USD 34.6 billion in 2025, before expanding further to nearly USD 93.6 billion by 2035 at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of about 10.5%.
The global semaglutide market’s rapid growth is driven by the increasing prevalence of type 2 diabetes and obesity, rising demand for GLP-1 receptor agonists, and growing adoption of weight-management therapies. Semaglutide not only treats diabetes effectively but also delivers significant weight loss, making it a key drug in both therapeutic areas. Experts say that with patent expiry, the generic semaglutide opportunity in India alone could be worth over ₹50 billion (about USD 600 million) in the coming years as multiple players enter the segment.
India has one of the largest populations living with diabetes, and obesity rates are rising sharply in urban and semi-urban areas. As the demand for affordable treatment options grows, locally manufactured generics are expected to dramatically reduce costs, improve access for patients, and help millions manage chronic conditions more effectively. For example, industry insiders suggest that pricing for Indian generics could be 50 % or more lower than current branded alternatives once they launch.
For Indian pharmaceutical companies, semaglutide represents a major revenue opportunity. Sales within India could deliver millions of units per year, and exports to other countries where the patent has expired could bring additional foreign exchange earnings. Production of complex injectable medicines like semaglutide also strengthens India’s manufacturing capabilities and supports its ambition to be a global pharmaceutical hub. With competition increasing among domestic firms and multinational players, the overall semaglutide market is expected to expand rapidly over the next decade, benefiting patients and boosting the pharmaceutical sector alike.
