India Emerges as early generic battleground for semaglutide

With semaglutide patents nearing expiry in key markets, Indian manufacturers and partners are mobilizing to introduce lower‑cost GLP‑1 alternatives, tapping into one of the fastest‑growing obesity and diabetes segments.

Eris Lifesciences and Natco Pharma inked a collaboration to commercialise generic semaglutide in India after regulatory approval for domestic manufacture. Launches are expected as early as March 2026. Novo Nordisk, meanwhile, is positioning oral semaglutide and planning to defend its portfolio in India by expanding its product mix beyond injections.

This convergence reflects a broader theme: the maturity of the GLP‑1 sector is creating bifurcated markets. High‑margin branded biologics still dominate premium segments, but generics and more accessible formulations are primed to capture significant volume in cost‑sensitive regions. For global pharma strategists, this dynamic demands differentiated pricing strategies and near‑term supply chain readiness — particularly as oral alternatives and generics draw broader adoption outside the U.S.