Indian Pharmaceutical Companies to Introduce Affordable Weight-Loss Medications
The Indian anti-obesity market is poised for a significant pricing transformation, as multiple pharmaceutical firms prepare to launch cost-effective versions of the popular weight-loss drugs Wegovy and Ozempic. This development follows the expiration of the patent for semaglutide, the active ingredient in these injectable treatments, on March 20. This patent expiry has opened the door for over six to seven companies, including industry leaders such as Sun Pharma, Zydus Lifesciences, Dr Reddy's, and Natco Pharma, to enter the market immediately on March 21.
Market Expansion and Competitive Dynamics
Additional players are anticipated to join the competition in the coming months, which is expected to drive down prices in a segment historically dominated by expensive brand-name medications. Analysts project that the weight-loss market, currently valued at nearly Rs 1,400 crore, could double within a year. This growth is part of a broader trend in the antidiabetic therapy sector, which saw an increase of over 15% in January, largely fueled by innovative therapies like Eli Lilly's Mounjaro, which recorded sales of Rs 112 crore, according to recent data from research firm Pharmarack.
Lower-priced generics are predicted to significantly broaden access to these treatments, with the market potentially expanding tenfold in the next few years as competition intensifies, industry experts told TOI. While specific pricing details remain undisclosed, analysts estimate that generic semaglutide could be priced approximately 50% cheaper than current options, ranging from Rs 3,500 to Rs 4,000 per month for the starting dose. This reduction would represent substantial cost savings for patients seeking effective weight management solutions.
Recent Market Developments and Company Strategies
Blockbuster therapies such as Wegovy and Mounjaro, marketed by Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly respectively, were introduced in India last year at prices tailored for the local market. Ozempic, another global bestseller, made its debut in India in December. In a move to enhance affordability, Novo Nordisk reduced the price of Wegovy by 37% in November last year, lowering the cost of the starting dose to Rs 10,000 per month for the lowest strength.
Several companies with a strong presence in chronic disease management are expected to lead the charge in this competitive landscape. Sun Pharma's Managing Director, Kirti Ganorkar, emphasized the company's commitment to improving access, stating, "As India's largest pharmaceutical company with leadership in cardiometabolic therapies, we are dedicated to enhancing the availability of generic semaglutide nationwide following the patent expiry. Sun Pharma plans to launch our products on the first day of generic availability. We are well-prepared to address both chronic weight management and type 2 diabetes indications, offering our brands in an easy-to-use prefilled pen format and ensuring adequate supply to meet Indian demand."
Collaborations and Market Readiness
In preparation for this market shift, some firms, including Cipla and Eris, have formed marketing partnerships with multinational corporations and domestic companies. Additionally, companies are investing in aggressive field force expansions to support the upcoming launches. Neeraj Sharma, CEO and MD of OneSource Specialty Pharma, a contract development and manufacturing organization, commented, "We believe the introduction of generic semaglutide will unlock considerable latent demand, providing a strong impetus to an already growing market. With our diverse customer base and portfolio of 11 device platforms, we are well-equipped to support this next phase of market expansion."
This influx of affordable alternatives is set to revolutionize the anti-obesity sector in India, making advanced weight-loss treatments more accessible to a broader population and stimulating further growth in the healthcare market.
