Generic Ozempic drugs may soon reach global markets

Patents on semaglutide are expiring in several countries, allowing generic versions of Ozempic to be produced; Canada has already lost patent protection this month.

Generic versions of Ozempic are beginning to enter the picture as semaglutide patents expire in multiple countries. This shift is receiving attention because it could change pricing and access for diabetes and weight-loss treatments. Canada has officially lost semaglutide patent protection this month, which permits domestic generic production and sales. The article reports that Novo Nordisk confirmed the Canadian lapse was intentional as part of a broader strategy. Key facts: - Patents on semaglutide are expiring or have expired in jurisdictions including Canada, India, China and Brazil, which opens the door for generic manufacturers. - Canada has lost patent protection this month, allowing domestic production and sales of generic semaglutide. - Analysts say a wave of generics may challenge Novo Nordisk's market position and reshape competitive dynamics in the GLP-1 category. - Semaglutide remains protected by U.S. patents until roughly 2031 and 2035, depending on secondary protections, keeping generics out of the U.S. market for now. - The article notes that high demand for branded products previously strained production and coincided with black-market activity and robberies in some cities, including reported incidents in Detroit and São Paulo. - Amazon Pharmacy announced it is offering Wegovy online, reporting insured customers may pay as little as $25 per month while uninsured patients may pay about $149, according to the report. Summary: Cheaper, regulated generics could reduce prices and change prescribing patterns, insurance coverage and public health strategies. Manufacturers and regional producers are preparing for rapid launches where exclusivity has ended, while U.S. market entry will depend on patent expiries and regulatory approvals. Undetermined at this time.