Dr Reddy's Prepares for March Launch of Generic Semaglutide Obeda

Dr Reddy's Laboratories to Launch Generic Semaglutide Injection in March

Key Points:

• Dr Reddy's Laboratories is set to launch its generic semaglutide injection in India in March under the brand name Obeda.
• The launch is expected to coincide with the expiration of patent protection for semaglutide in India in March 2026.
• Obeda is a generic version of Novo Nordisk's blockbuster diabetes drug Ozempic and weight-loss drug Wegovy.

Background:

Read also: Treasury Yields Experience Largest Increase in Two Weeks Following Release of Labor Market Data

Semaglutide is a compound used in the treatment of diabetes and weight loss. The patent protection for semaglutide expires in India in March 2026, prompting Indian drugmakers to develop lower-cost versions. Dr Reddy's Laboratories, a Hyderabad-based company, has applied to trademark the Obeda brand and logo.

Market Potential:

India has the most adults suffering from diabetes after China, with a large market potential for semaglutide-based treatments. The country could have over 440 million overweight or obese people by 2050, according to a study published in The Lancet.

Commercial Plans:

Read also: US-Iran Tensions Spark Uptick in Oil Prices Amid Global Market Decline

Dr Reddy's Laboratories plans to sell approximately 12 million injectable semaglutide pens in the first year, with a competitive pricing strategy that could be up to 60% below the branded product. The company has regulatory approval to manufacture and sell a generic version of Ozempic and is awaiting clearance for a generic Wegovy.

Market Competition:

The Indian market for semaglutide-based treatments is highly competitive, with Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly already launching their diabetes and weight-loss drugs in the country last year. Lilly's Mounjaro has become the top-selling drug by value in India.