New Delhi, March 21 Pharmaceutical companies Torrent Pharmaceuticals, Alkem Laboratories, and USV Ltd. launched Semaglutide-based generic diabetes treatment medication in the country on Saturday.
Torrent Pharma launched its Semaglutide brands, Sembolic and Semalix, in both oral and injectable formulations.
"Our entry into the GLP-1 therapy segment reflects Torrent's commitment to expanding treatment options available to healthcare professionals managing complex metabolic conditions at affordable prices," Torrent Pharma CEO-India Business Amal Kelshikar said in a statement.
Alkem Laboratories announced the launch of Semaglutide injection in India under the brand names Semasize, Obesema, and Hepaglide.
The company has launched its Semaglutide pre-filled disposable injection pen at a price starting at Rs 1,800 for a month's dosage, which translates to a weekly cost of Rs 450.
The drugmaker said it aims to lower barriers to initiation and expand access to this therapy in India.
Alkem said it received approval from the Drug Controller General of India (DCGI) for manufacturing and marketing Semaglutide for type 2 diabetes mellitus and chronic weight management as an adjunct to diet and exercise, following a review of its Phase 3 clinical trials conducted in India.
USV Ltd. announced the launch of Usema, in collaboration with Dr Reddy's Laboratories. As one of India's first DCGI-approved injectable semaglutide, the product is designed for the management of Type 2 Diabetes and associated metabolic health challenges.
The launch comes as India faces an escalating diabetes burden, with over 100 million people currently living with diabetes.
Indian drugmakers are launching Semaglutide injections after the patent on the GLP-1 molecule expired in India on March 20. This has opened up the market to affordable versions of the diabetes and weight-loss drug sold globally as Ozempic and Wegovy.
Semaglutide is in demand because it mimics the GLP-1 hormone, enhances insulin release, reduces glucose production, and suppresses appetite.