A new wave of affordable weight-loss medications is poised to reshape global obesity treatment, following the expiration of key patents for semaglutide,the active ingredient in blockbuster drugs such as Ozempic and Wegovy in India on Friday.
The development is expected to significantly expand access to obesity treatment, particularly in middle-income countries, where high costs have long limited the availability of such therapies. India, widely regarded as the world’s largest supplier of generic medicines, is already witnessing preparations by pharmaceutical companies to flood the market with lower-cost alternatives.
Doctors in cities like Mumbai say demand is already surging. Endocrinologists report dozens of new patients weekly seeking weight-loss injections, with expectations that patient numbers could triple as prices drop.
At least four major pharmaceutical firms, including Zydus Lifesciences, are set to roll out generic semaglutide products almost immediately, with industry analysts predicting over 50 brands entering the market in the coming months.
The global implications are significant. According to researchers, semaglutide patents are set to expire in multiple countries representing nearly half of the world’s obesity burden, including Brazil, China, South Africa, Turkey, and Canada.
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Experts say lower-cost generics could be particularly impactful across Africa, where India supplies a significant portion of essential medicines. With obesity rates rising globally, access to affordable treatment has become a growing public health priority.
However, specialists caution that while medications like Ozempic have proven effective, they are not without risks. Reported side effects include nausea and gastrointestinal discomfort, underscoring the need for proper medical supervision.
Public health advocates, including leaders at the World Obesity Federation, emphasize that while cheaper drugs will improve access, long-term solutions must also address lifestyle, diet, and preventive healthcare.
As global demand accelerates and prices fall, the introduction of generic semaglutide marks a pivotal moment in the fight against obesity—one that could redefine treatment accessibility for millions worldwide.