In brief
As India prepares to introduce affordable generic versions of semaglutide, the key ingredient in popular weight-loss drugs, it could dramatically change obesity treatment. This market shift, predicted to increase accessibility and lower costs, may catalyze a global trend while also raising concerns about drug quality and misuse.
India could soon get a lot thinner - at least in theory. On Friday, the patent on semaglutide, the molecule behind Danish drugmaker Novo Nordisk's blockbuster weight-loss drugs Wegovy and Ozempic, expires in the country. This will allow domestic pharmaceutical companies to release cheaper copies or generics, triggering a rush of competition that could slash prices by more than half and rapidly expand access for the population in India and eventually in other countries too.Investment bank Jefferies has called it a potential 'magic-pill moment' for India, predicting that the semaglutide market could eventually reach $1 billion domestically with the right pricing and uptake. Analysts expect about 50 branded semaglutide generics to enter in the next few months, following a pattern seen earlier with diabetes drugs. Historically, when similar drugs have gone off patent, numerous generics quickly entered the market, making them more accessible.India, known as the 'pharmacy of the world', produces various generics, and this shift could turn what was once an expensive injection into a common treatment, ultimately impacting millions struggling with obesity and diabetes.However, while the benefits of cheaper medication are clear, there is also caution around the quality of these drugs and potential misuse, as lowered prices may lead to increased demand and irresponsible consumption. Authorities are urging careful regulation as they welcome these significant changes in the weight-loss drug landscape.
