Semaglutide, the active compound behind the blockbuster weight-loss drug Ozempic, has officially transitioned off-patent in the Indian market. This regulatory shift has paved the way for domestic pharmaceutical companies to introduce low-cost generic versions of the popular treatment.
Danish pharmaceutical giant Novo Nordisk has responded by filing a lawsuit against Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories to defend its flagship brand identity. The legal challenge seeks to prevent generic manufacturers from utilizing branding that could potentially infringe on the established Ozempic trademark.
The litigation highlights the high stakes in India’s rapidly growing obesity and diabetes market as global giants face local competition. Industry analysts are monitoring the case to see if it sets a precedent for how international drugmakers will protect brand equity once chemical patents expire.