Aspen Pharmacare plans to launch one of the world’s first generic semaglutide in Canada following Novo Nordisk’s recent loss of patent protection of the blockbuster GLP‑1 weight‑loss injection, reported Business Day (19 Jan 2026).
While Aspen may not be first to market, it will be a contender, said Aspen CEO Stephen Saad
Regulatory approvals are expected in early 2026.
“Industry leaders see it as a test case for generics, with implications for markets yet to see major patent expiries, including Brazil, India and China in 2026.”
Current prices for branded semaglutide - sold as Ozempic and Wegovy by Novo Nordisk, and tirzepatide brands Mounjaro and Zepbound by Eli Lilly - range from around US$200 to US$400 per month. However, the Swiss company plans discounts of up to 70% off the list price.
In SA, Aspen markets and distributes Eli Lilly’s Mounjaro under an agreement with Lilly. Saad reported that Mounjaro’s sales in SA - approved for type 2 diabetes in 2024 and weight loss in 2025 - “are shooting the lights out,” exceeding expectations without offering detailed figures.
Oral formulations may attract patients reluctant to use injections, thereby complicating the competitive landscape for injectable generics.