The expiration of the semaglutide patent in March is expected to lead to a price reduction of up to 35% for Ozempic, according to pharmaceutical company EMS, which is interested in producing a generic version.
The patent for semaglutide, the active ingredient in Ozempic, is set to expire in March, which is anticipated to allow generic versions of the weight-loss drug to enter the market. The pharmaceutical company EMS forecasts that this increase in market competition could lead to a reduction in prices of up to 35%. EMS has based its prediction on an analysis that indicates heightened competition typically results in substantial price cuts, with potential reductions of around 20% reflected in regulated prices and even up to 35% in scenarios with increased market participation.
With the end of the patent, other companies will be able to sell weight-loss pens such as Ozempic and Wegovy, provided they are registered with Brazil's National Health Surveillance Agency (Anvisa). EMS is currently preparing to submit a request to Anvisa, which will review this proposal in the upcoming weeks. The company is optimistic that by expanding their offerings, they could double their revenue compared to the previous year, highlighting the potential financial benefits of entering this competitive market.
This situation also underscores the significant relationship between patent laws and pharmaceutical pricing in Brazil. The anticipated price drop could make Ozempic more accessible to a broader segment of the population, potentially addressing significant concerns surrounding obesity and weight management in the country. With the obesity epidemic growing, the implications of more affordable access to these medications may transform treatment options for many Brazilians, reflecting larger trends in global healthcare dynamics and pharmaceutical policies.
