Zydus Lifesciences Limited, an innovation-led life sciences company with a strong international presence, is set to launch Semaglutide Injection in India under the brand names SEMAGLYN™, MASHEMA™ and ALTERME™ following the expiry of the Semaglutide patent in the country. The Drug Controller General of India (DCGI) has already granted approval for the manufacturing and marketing of Semaglutide injection for the treatment of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and Obesity, paving the way for the company’s entry into this high-growth therapeutic segment.
The planned launch stands out due to Zydus’ indigenously developed drug delivery system. Unlike existing treatment options that require patients to purchase multiple single-dose pens while titrating their dosage, Zydus intends to introduce an adjustable single-pen device designed to deliver varying dose strengths from one reusable unit. This approach is expected to simplify the treatment process, enhance patient convenience and improve long-term adherence to therapy.
The reusable pen technology will be capable of delivering all strengths approved for the treatment of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and Obesity. With exclusive rights to this novel device, Zydus aims to address cost concerns often associated with GLP-1 based therapies, potentially making treatment more affordable and accessible for patients across India.
The introduction of Semaglutide by Zydus comes at a time when India continues to face a growing burden of diabetes and obesity. According to the International Diabetes Federation, India has approximately 8.9 crore adults living with diabetes, accounting for 10.5% of the total adult population. At the same time, obesity rates have risen sharply in recent years, with significant increases observed among both women and men, reflecting an expanding public health challenge.
GLP-1 based therapies such as Semaglutide have gained prominence globally for their role in managing blood glucose levels and supporting weight reduction. With regulatory approval already in place and an innovative drug delivery mechanism ready for rollout, Zydus Lifesciences is positioning itself to strengthen its footprint in India’s diabetes and obesity treatment market.