India Major pharma companies Sun Pharma, Dr. Reddy’s and Glenmark on Saturday announced the launch of the generic form of ‘Semaglutide Injection’ used in reducing diabetes and obesity. This step has been taken after the patent of the basic ingredient of drugs like ‘Ozempic’ and ‘Vegovi’ expired in India. The companies said that the prices of these medicines are much lower than those of the original drug maker Novo Nordisk. Sun Pharma launches its semaglutide injection in all dosages under the name ‘NovelTreat’ and ‘Sematrinity’.
Weekly dose of Noveltreat will start from Rs 900
‘NovelTreat’ is used in combination with a low-calorie diet and physical activity for long-term weight loss in adults. It is available in 5 different quantities. According to the company, the weekly cost of ‘NovelTreat’ is around Rs 900 to Rs 2,000 and that of ‘Sematrinity’ is between Rs 750 to Rs 1,300. Sun Pharma Managing Director Kirti Ganorkar said that the company’s aim is to provide quality and affordable treatment to as many patients as possible.
A month’s dose of Obeda will cost Rs 4,200.
Dr. Reddy’s has introduced semaglutide injection under the name ‘Obeda’, which is administered once a week. According to the company, its monthly cost is around Rs 4,200. Company CEO Erez Israeli said that this step is important towards strengthening the company’s presence in important treatment areas and the company plans to make it available in other countries as well.
Glenmark and Zydus Lifesciences also introduced the medicine
Glenmark has launched its generic semaglutide injection under the name ‘Glipiq’. According to the company, its weekly cost is between Rs 325 to Rs 440, which will make this treatment more accessible. Glenmark executive Alok Malik said that high cost is a major barrier to the introduction of advanced diabetes treatment in India, which this drug will help reduce. Zydus Lifesciences has also announced the launch of its generic versions of Semaglutide Injection under the names ‘Semaglin’, ‘Mashema’ and ‘Altermet’. According to the company, its average monthly cost will be around Rs 2,200.