Zydus Set to Launch Novel Obesity Vaccine in Innovative Pen Device

Zydus Lifesciences to Launch Semaglutide Brands in India Upon Patent Expiry

Zydus Lifesciences, an Ahmedabad-based drugmaker, is planning to launch its semaglutide injection brands in India upon the expiration of the drug's patent on March 20, 2026. The company has received regulatory approval from the Drug Controller General of India (DCGI) to market and manufacture semaglutide for the treatment of type-2 diabetes and obesity.

Semaglutide, a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist, is expected to be launched under the brand names Semaglyn, Mashema, and Alterme. The company has developed a novel, indigenously designed single-pen device that is reusable and allows patients to administer varying dose strengths from the same device. This is expected to lower the overall cost of therapy.

The launch of generic semaglutide brands in India is expected to intensify competition in the lucrative market. Several Indian drugmakers, including Dr. Reddy's and Sun Pharma, are gearing up for Day-one launches upon patent expiry. Additionally, Eris Lifesciences and Natco Pharma have announced a partnership to commercialize semaglutide, while Cipla and Emcure have secured distribution deals with innovators Eli Lilly and Novo Nordisk, respectively.

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The GLP-1 drug market in India has already crossed ₹1,000 crore in sales in less than a year of launches, with innovator drugs Mounjaro, Wegovy, and Ozempic dominating the market. The entry of generic versions of semaglutide, priced lower, is expected to further expand the market.