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Patent protection for semaglutide is starting to expire in different countries. In the US, patents last until 2032, but in Canada, China, India, Brazil, and several other countries, the barriers fall much sooner, so drug makers are now racing to file for approval and bring generic versions to market.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll look at 25 companies across different countries that have announced plans to develop generic semaglutide, along with details on their regulatory filings and expected launch timelines.

Key Takeaways

  • Sandoz, Apotex, Teva, Taro, and Aspen have filed with Health Canada. Sandoz expects to launch by Q2 2026, and Aspen expects regulatory approval in mid-2026. Apotex has FDA tentative approval, signaling readiness.
  • India has already launched multiple brands after its patent expired in March 2026. Dr. Reddy’s plans to sell 12 million pens of its Obeda brand. Zydus offers Semaglyn, Mashema, and Alterme. Sun Pharma launched Noveltreat and Sematrinity. Glenmark markets GLIPIQ, and Alkem markets Semasize, Obesema, and Hepaglide.
  • Chinese developers like Jiuyuan, Livzon, and others have completed or are conducting phase III trials. Because the regulatory process requires local trials, China will likely see its first generics come to market later in 2026, but there could be many entrants at once.
  • In Brazil, Hypera and Biomm (partnering with Biocon) have filed with Anvisa and plan to launch as soon as patents expire in 2026.
  • Generic semaglutide is now available in Canada, with prices starting at $199.99 per pen. You can also order up to a 3-month supply to maximize your savings and reduce the need for frequent reorders.

Sandoz Canada

Sandoz has one of the broadest generic portfolios in the world. They’re widely recognized for producing generic antibiotics such as amoxicillin and cephalexin as well as biosimilars like Zarxio (filgrastim) and Ziextenzo (pegfilgrastim).

Sandoz submitted its generic semaglutide dossier to Health Canada in November 2024. Speaking to Reuters, Sandoz CEO Richard Saynor said the firm wants to be among the first entrants when Canada’s patents expire. He expects the generic to be launched between the first and second quarter of 2026.

He added that Canada would act as a “testing ground” for other markets and that supply might initially be limited due to cold-chain handling and complex manufacturing.

Apotex Inc.

Apotex is a privately held Canadian pharmaceutical company headquartered in Toronto. The company exports medicines to more than 115 countries and fills 1 in 5 prescriptions dispensed in Canada.

Their generics range from cardiovascular drugs like atenolol to anti-infectives and central nervous system therapies. Through its Apobiologix division, Apotex also markets biosimilars such as Prasti (trastuzumab) and Lapubid (pertuzumab).

Health Canada lists three submissions from Apotex dated January 2025, April 2025, and November 2025.

In April 2026, Apotex Corp., an affiliate of Apotex Inc., received US FDA tentative approval for its generic Ozempic, meaning the drug meets US safety and efficacy standards but cannot be marketed due to existing patents.

Tentative approval indicates Apotex’s formulation is ready and that launch in Canada could follow soon. While the company has not publicly announced a launch date, industry analysts expect Apotex to join Sandoz in the second half of 2026 as supply ramps up.

Teva Canada

Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd. is an Israeli-headquartered generics giant. In its investor outreach, Teva notes that 1 in 15 prescriptions in the United States and 1 in 9 in Europe are filled with a Teva product.

The company is widely respected for complex generics and biosimilars and has more than 300 dossiers under review globally. Teva’s portfolio spans neurology, oncology, respiratory, and women’s health, and it produces both small-molecule generics and specialty drugs such as Copaxone for multiple sclerosis. Teva Canada operates manufacturing plants in Montreal, St. Jean-sur-Richelieu, and Toronto.

Teva filed its semaglutide generic with Health Canada in August 2025. The company has not publicized a planned launch date, but given Teva’s experience with complex injectables, analysts anticipate a launch soon after regulatory clearance.

Taro Pharmaceuticals

Taro Canada, established in 1950, is a research-driven specialty pharmaceutical company focusing on dermatology and topical formulations. It produces a range of generic prescription drugs (creams, ointments, gels) and over-the-counter products.

Taro is supported by Sun Pharma, the world’s fifth-largest specialty generics company. While Taro is smaller than the other players, its parent’s manufacturing base and global reach give it the capacity to develop injectables.

Health Canada records show Taro filed its Abbreviated New Drug Submission (ANDS) for semaglutide in June 2025. The company has not revealed a projected launch date, but its parent company already launched semaglutide generics in India on March 21, 2026.

Aspen Pharmacare Canada

Aspen Pharmacare is a South African multinational with a global presence. Its official profile states that the company operates 24 manufacturing facilities around the world. It has built a strong business manufacturing post-patent branded medicines, particularly in anesthesia and thrombosis.

They filed a generic semaglutide submission in August 2025, with a second submission in February 2026. Aspen CEO Stephen Saad told Reuters that the company expects to receive Canadian regulatory approval in late Q2 or Q3 of 2026 and aims to launch soon after.

Aspen will manufacture the drug at facilities in South Africa and France, and Canada will act as a reference market for emerging countries.

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Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories

Dr. Reddy’s is one of India’s largest pharmaceutical companies, with operations in 35 countries. It is known for generic versions of widely used drugs such as atorvastatin, ibuprofen, metformin, and complex biologics like Pegfilgrastim. The company has significant research & development capabilities and has launched generics in the US, Europe, and emerging markets.

On April 28, 2026, Health Canada approved the first generic semaglutide injection, which was submitted by Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories. Following a thorough review, Health Canada determined that it meets the required standards for safety, efficacy, and quality. Like the original, this once-weekly injection is indicated for adults with type 2 diabetes to help manage blood sugar levels.

In India, Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories has already launched its generic version of semaglutide called Obeda, priced at 4,200 rupees per month (approximately US $36-$37). It was also the first semaglutide injection in the country to receive approval from the Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI). The medication is administered as a once-weekly injection and is available in 2 mg and 4 mg doses.

Zydus Lifesciences (formerly Cadila Healthcare)

Zydus Lifesciences is a diversified pharmaceutical company headquartered in Ahmedabad. It has businesses in generic drugs, active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs), vaccines, and new chemical entity research. Zydus markets common generics like acyclovir and amoxycillin and has developed vaccines for diseases such as COVID-19 (Zycov-D). It operates manufacturing facilities in India and the US.

Zydus received regulatory approval to manufacture and sell generic versions of Novo Nordisk’s Wegovy in January 2026 and plans to launch three brand names, Semaglyn, Mashema, and Alterme. The company will offer a single adjustable pen with pre-filled cartridges to reduce cost.

Sun Pharmaceutical Industries

Sun Pharma is one of India’s largest pharmaceutical companies and among the largest generic drug makers globally. The company has operations on five continents, more than 40 manufacturing sites, and a portfolio covering chronic therapies like psychiatry, cardiology, and neurology. Sun’s widely known generics include ranitidine, levofloxacin, valacyclovir, and various oncology drugs.

On March 21, 2026, Sun Pharma announced the launch of two semaglutide brands, Noveltreat for weight management and Sematrinity for type 2 diabetes, in India. The company said therapy costs range from about 900 to 2,000 rupees per month (about US $10-$22) for Noveltreat and 750 to 1,300 rupees per month (about US $8-$14) for Sematrinity.

Glenmark Pharmaceuticals

Glenmark is a research-led global pharmaceutical company headquartered in Mumbai. The company specializes in generics, active pharmaceutical ingredients, and new molecules in respiratory, dermatology, and oncology. Its well-known generics include telmisartan, montelukast, and fluticasone.

Glenmark launched its semaglutide product GLIPIQ for type 2 diabetes, available in both vial and pre-filled pen, with prices starting from 325 rupees to 440 rupees (about US $4-$5).

Alkem Laboratories

Alkem is a Mumbai-based company ranked among India’s top ten pharmaceutical firms, and specializes in anti-infectives, gastroenterology, and vitamins, making generics like Taxim (ceftriaxone) and Pan (pantoprazole). It invests heavily in research with a 500-scientist team developing novel formulations.

Alkem released three semaglutide brands, Semasize, Obesema, and Hepaglide, in pre-filled disposable pens in March 2026. According to their press release, prices start at 1,800 rupees per month (around US $20).

Eris Lifesciences & Natco Pharma

Eris is a mid-sized Indian pharmaceutical company with strong positions in oral anti-diabetes, insulins, cardiovascular, and vitamins/minerals, and is expanding into nephrology and oncology. Meanwhile, Natco Pharma is known for producing generic oncology drugs like sorafenib and lenalidomide.

Eris partnered with Natco and launched a vial format of branded generic semaglutide called Sundae at about 1,290 rupees per month (around US $14-$15).

Hetero Labs

Hetero is among the largest privately held pharmaceutical companies in India. Its corporate profile states that Hetero operates over 36 manufacturing facilities producing active ingredients and finished dosage forms, and has a presence in more than 145 countries.

The company is particularly known for developing low-cost antiretroviral drugs for HIV/AIDS. Hetero has two US manufacturing facilities and a strong front-end presence in Africa, Latin America, and the Middle East.

On March 27, 2026, Hetero launched three semaglutide brands, Truglyx, Rolmodl, and Moto G in over 75 countries. The company plans to sell about 1.5 million pens globally in its first year, pricing the medication around US $40 to $60 per month.

Lupin, Torrent, and others

Beyond the companies above, numerous other Indian firms, including Lupin, Torrent Pharmaceuticals, Biocon, and Cipla, are developing semaglutide generics or have already launched them in India. Many of these companies have expertise in injectables and peptides.

    • Lupin Ltd. has introduced generic semaglutide brands Semanext and Livarise, although pricing has not yet been disclosed.
    • Biocon Ltd., in partnership with Ajanta Pharma Ltd., has not made any official announcements at this time.
    • Cipla Ltd. is exploring opportunities in semaglutide, but its current focus remains on tirzepatide. The company has launched Yurpeak (tirzepatide) in India through a partnership with Eli Lilly for the treatment of type 2 diabetes and chronic weight management. Under this arrangement, Eli Lilly manufactures and supplies the product, while Cipla handles marketing and distribution.

Chinese Pharmaceutical Companies

China is the world’s largest diabetes market, accounting for about 22% of all diabetes worldwide, and its semaglutide patent expired in March 2026. This allows domestic Chinese pharmaceutical companies to begin producing generic versions, and approvals are now in the final stages of review.

  • Jiuyuan Gene Engineering (Jiuyuan Genetic Biopharm) – A biotechnology company based in Hangzhou that specializes in peptide drugs and recombinant proteins. In early 2026, the company gained attention by filing for marketing approval of Jikeqin, a biosimilar version of Wegovy (semaglutide for weight management), with China’s National Medical Products Administration (NMPA).
  • Livzon Pharmaceutical Group – A large Chinese pharmaceutical conglomerate based in Zhuhai. It manufactures antibiotics, cardiovascular drugs, and vaccines. Livzon has already completed phase III clinical trials in 2024.
  • Chongqing Chenan Biopharmaceutical and Shanghai Bovax Biotech – These are smaller biotech companies focusing on peptides and complex injectables. Both firms have finished recruiting participants for their phase III trials. Results will determine whether they can file for approval in late 2025 or early 2026.
  • CSPC Pharmaceutical Group and Huadong Medicine/Peg-Bio – CSPC is a large Chinese drug maker known for antibiotics and anti-tumor drugs. Huadong Medicine, based in Hangzhou, and its partner Peg-Bio specialize in peptides. Given their scale, they may become major suppliers in China and other Asian countries.
  • Sino Biopharmaceutical subsidiary and Qilu Pharmaceutical – Sino Biopharm is a large state-owned enterprise with subsidiaries focusing on innovative and generic drugs. Qilu is one of China’s biggest generic drug makers, producing antibiotics and oncology drugs.

Brazilian Pharmaceutical Companies

Brazil has a growing obesity problem, with over 30% of the population classified as obese and 68% considered at least overweight. Semaglutide’s patent expiry follows a similar timeline to India and China. The Brazilian Health Regulatory Agency (Anvisa) requires local trials or bridging studies for generics. So far, two major players have publicly announced plans.

  • Hypera Pharma – Hypera is Brazil’s largest listed pharmaceutical company. It has a broad portfolio of branded generics, OTC products, and proprietary medicines. According to Reuters, the company has already submitted a registration request to Anvisa and expects to introduce its product once approval is granted.
  • Biomm and Biocon alliance – Biomm is a Brazilian biopharmaceutical company focusing on complex biotech products and biosimilars. In April 2024, Biocon Biologics signed a licensing and supply agreement with Biomm. Under the deal, Biocon will manufacture the semaglutide drug product while Biomm will seek regulatory approval and commercialize it in Brazil. Because Biocon already manufactures semaglutide for the Indian market, the partnership should enable a quick rollout and competitive pricing.

Companies from other regions

Beyond major markets, companies in other regions are also entering the semaglutide race.

Türkiye and the Middle East

The semaglutide patent expires in 2026 in Türkiye, and local manufacturers are expected to jump in. The largest Turkish drug maker, Abdi Ibrahim, has been investing heavily in biotechnology, but public information on its semaglutide plans is limited. Türkiye may also see imports from Indian generics once regulatory barriers are cleared.

Russia

Russia’s market is already seeing semaglutide analogs due to compulsory licensing. The government’s objective is to reduce dependence on imports and make weight-loss drugs more affordable. Prices have fallen significantly as a result. Geropharm’s version of Ozempic, branded as Semavic, sold over one million packs in Russia during its first full year on the market. A month’s supply is priced at approximately $44.

Emerging markets

Other developing countries such as Indonesia, the Philippines, and Vietnam will likely benefit from generics produced in India and China. Because these countries do not have large peptide manufacturing industries, they are expected to import semaglutide pens from companies like Dr. Reddy’s, Hetero, Zydus, and Sun Pharma once local regulators grant approvals.

Summary

The generic semaglutide market is beginning to take shape, with companies such as Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories and Apotex already receiving approval in Canada. As more manufacturers enter the market in the coming years, competition is expected to expand supply and improve access for patients seeking a lower-cost alternative to brand-name Ozempic.

For US consumers, generic semaglutide is now available in Canada, with prices starting at $199.99 per pen. As more manufacturers launch their own versions, patients may benefit from greater availability and potentially even lower prices over time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Generic semaglutide is now available in Canada, with prices starting at $199.99 per pen. For patients in the US, Canada is currently the nearest country offering approved generic semaglutide, offering savings of more than $800 per month compared with Ozempic’s US list price.

Health Canada’s submissions list shows filings from Sandoz, Apotex, Teva, Taro, and Aspen Pharmacare.

Compared with Ozempic’s US list price, you can save more than $800 per month. For even greater savings, you can order up to a 3-month supply and save more than $2,500.

Semaglutide is a synthetic peptide delivered via a self-injecting pen. Health Canada requires manufacturers to show that a generic version matches the original drug in safety, efficacy, and quality. This involves demonstrating bioequivalence and ensuring the pen device delivers the same dose, a more involved process than for most oral generics.

India’s semaglutide patent expired in early March 2026 and became the first large market with widespread access to generics.

Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories intends to market its product in Canada, having been the first company to receive approval from Health Canada. Hetero aims to ship about 1.5 million pens worldwide and has said it will export to 75 countries. Zydus and Sun Pharma have expressed interest in entering other regions, and partnerships like Biocon-Biomm in Brazil show how Indian producers will support foreign launches.

No. Novo Nordisk holds patents on semaglutide in the US until 2032. Until then, only branded Ozempic, Wegovy, and Rybelsus will be available.

To gain approval, generic medicines must contain the same active ingredient, strength, and dosage form as the brand and must demonstrate bioequivalence. Health Canada requires that generic semaglutide match Ozempic in safety, efficacy, and quality.

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