Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories has announced plans to introduce generic Semaglutide in India after the drug’s patent expires in March 2026. The Hyderabad-based pharmaceutical company is preparing both injectable and oral formulations to enter the glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist segment.
Semaglutide is used for the treatment of type 2 diabetes and, at higher doses, for chronic weight management. It helps lower blood glucose levels and supports weight reduction under medical supervision.
Semaglutide belongs to the GLP-1 receptor agonist class of drugs. It mimics a natural incretin hormone that stimulates insulin secretion when blood sugar levels rise. It also suppresses glucagon release, delays gastric emptying, and reduces appetite.1
These mechanisms improve glycemic control and contribute to weight loss. Clinical trials have shown reductions in HbA1c levels in patients with type 2 diabetes and meaningful weight reduction in individuals with obesity or overweight with comorbid conditions.1
The Semaglutide patent in India is scheduled to expire in March 2026. Following this expiry, generic manufacturers can legally produce and market the drug, subject to regulatory approvals.
Dr. Reddy’s plans to launch the injectable generic version soon after the patent expires. The company has also indicated that it aims to introduce an oral Semaglutide tablet in financial year 2026–27, pending final regulatory clearances.
M V Ramana, CEO, Branded Markets (India & Emerging Markets), Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories, told Business Today,
Ensuring that we have the products that matter now and are expected to be the future standard of care, we have them in our R&D pipeline.
M V Ramana, CEO, Branded Markets (India & Emerging Markets), Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories
India has a high burden of type 2 diabetes and a rising prevalence of obesity. Many patients pay for treatment out of pocket, which limits access to high-cost therapies.
Reports indicate that Dr. Reddy’s intends to price its generic obesity drug at a substantial discount compared to the innovator product, potentially up to 60 percent lower. Reduced pricing could expand access to GLP-1 therapy for eligible patients under physician guidance.
Companies that have confidence in the product that they have developed with the right clinical trials and all the tests that are required to give the confidence to the doctor, and companies that have field forces that have the confidence of the doctors would gain in this segment.
M V Ramana, CEO, Branded Markets (India & Emerging Markets), Dr Reddy’s Laboratories
Like other GLP-1 receptor agonists, Semaglutide may cause gastrointestinal side effects such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation. Physicians usually begin treatment with lower doses and increase gradually to improve tolerability.
Long-term treatment requires medical supervision, lifestyle modification, and ongoing monitoring to ensure safety and effectiveness.
Dr. Reddy’s has described a broader care model alongside its Semaglutide launch. The company plans to support physician education, dose titration guidance, and structured obesity management initiatives.
GLP-1 therapies work best when combined with dietary changes, physical activity, and regular follow-up. Integrating patient support services with medication access may influence treatment adherence and outcomes.
After patent expiry, other pharmaceutical companies are expected to introduce generic Semaglutide in India. Increased competition may affect pricing and availability.
If regulatory approvals proceed as planned, generic Semaglutide could become more widely available in India beginning in 2026, potentially expanding treatment options for type 2 diabetes and obesity within a structured clinical framework.
1. Chao, Ariana M., Joseph S. Tronieri, Amanda Amaro, and Thomas A. Wadden. 2023. “Semaglutide for the Treatment of Obesity.” Trends in Cardiovascular Medicine 33 (3): 159–166. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tcm.2021.12.008.
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