Mumbai: With Novo Nordisk’s Semaglutide patent due for expiry in various markets, India’s leading generic drugs manufacturer Biocon has signed a licensing agreement with Ajanta Pharma to market its version of Semaglutide in those markets. This comes at a time when the weight loss drug market is exploding, with many seeking the Semaglutide-based injectable to manage their diabetes and weight loss.
Under the agreement, Biocon will manufacture and supply Semaglutide to Ajanta Pharma, which will handle marketing and distribution in 30 countries, mostly in West Asia, Central Asia and Africa. With the patent exclusivity expiring soon in these markets, Biocon and Ajanta Pharma are aiming to commercialise the drug in these markets by late 2026 or early 2027.
“This partnership with Ajanta Pharma is a strategic step in expanding the global footprint of Biocon’s GLP-1 portfolio and maximising the value of our scientific investments in complex peptide development,” Siddharth Mittal, CEO and MD at Biocon said in a press release.
“GLP-1 therapies have seen rapid global acceptance and have emerged as blockbuster products worldwide. We are excited to partner with Biocon for Semaglutide and take this important therapy to the markets where Ajanta has strong on-ground presence and deep reach. We are confident of building Semaglutide into a meaningful and high-growth brand across these countries in the years ahead.” Yogesh Agrawal, MD, Ajanta Pharma Ltd, added.
Global pharma companies are in a race to launch their own versions of Semaglutide, with US-based Pfizer acquiring Metsera, a US based obesity and metabolic medication specialist and India’s Dr Reddy’s also receiving the Delhi High Court’s approval to launch its generic version of the drug.
Meanwhile, Novo Nordisk, the original patent holder, is all set to launch an oral version of the drug in the US, hoping to stand out from the competition.
