Will Dr. Reddy's Avoid Selling Novo Nordisk's Ozempic-like Drug in India?
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Synopsis
In a significant legal development, Dr. Reddy’s has pledged to the Delhi High Court it will not market Novo Nordisk’s Ozempic-like drug in India. This decision comes amidst an ongoing patent infringement dispute. The implications for the pharmaceutical landscape in India are substantial as companies navigate patent laws and market access.
Key Takeaways
- Dr. Reddy’s has assured the Delhi HC it will not market Novo Nordisk's Ozempic-like drug in India.
- A patent infringement lawsuit has been filed by Novo Nordisk against Dr. Reddy’s and OneSource.
- Dr. Reddy’s has received a license to manufacture semaglutide but not to sell it in India.
- The ongoing legal battle involves complex issues of patent rights and market access.
- The hearing is scheduled for August 19.
New Delhi, May 31 (NationPress) In light of the eagerly awaited launch of Novo Nordisk’s blockbuster weight-loss medication Ozempic Wegovy in India, Dr. Reddy’s has formally informed the Delhi High Court that it will refrain from marketing the Danish drugmaker’s Ozempic-like drug within the country.
This commitment comes after a patent infringement lawsuit was initiated by the Danish pharmaceutical company against both Reddy’s Laboratories and OneSource Speciality Pharma earlier this week.
The legal representatives for the Indian firms conveyed to the court that they had received authorization to produce semaglutide in December 2024, subsequently commencing its production in April 2025.
While it was confirmed that they lack a license to distribute the drug in India, the companies maintained their right to export it to regions where Novo Nordisk does not possess a patent.
Nonetheless, Novo Nordisk has raised objections concerning this intended export.
The two companies are currently entangled in a legal dispute surrounding semaglutide — the key ingredient in both Wegovy and Ozempic. These widely used medications for obesity and diabetes function by suppressing appetite and slowing food digestion.
According to allegations from Novo Nordisk, Dr. Reddy’s and OneSource have been importing substantial quantities of the semaglutide active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) into India, utilizing it to create and export formulations.
Novo Nordisk’s legal counsel asserted that the exportation of an infringing product also constitutes a violation of the Patents Act of 1970.
Conversely, Dr. Reddy’s argued that semaglutide was already detailed in an earlier Indian patent held by Novo Nordisk.
The Hyderabad-based pharmaceutical company further accused Novo Nordisk of attempting to extend its market dominance through a tactic known as evergreening — a strategy where patent holders make minimal alterations to existing products or processes to prolong their exclusivity in the market.
The court has scheduled a hearing on this matter for August 19.
Point of View
The ongoing legal battle between Dr. Reddy’s and Novo Nordisk highlights the intricate dynamics of patent law in the pharmaceutical industry. While the protection of intellectual property is crucial for encouraging innovation, it is equally important to ensure that patients have access to life-saving medications. The outcome of this case could set a precedent for future disputes and impact the availability of essential treatments in India.
NationPress
14/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current legal dispute between Dr. Reddy’s and Novo Nordisk?
The dispute centers around patent infringement regarding the drug semaglutide, with Novo Nordisk alleging that Dr. Reddy’s and OneSource are unlawfully importing and planning to export formulations of the drug.
What is semaglutide and its significance?
Semaglutide is an active pharmaceutical ingredient used in popular weight-loss and diabetes medications, including Ozempic and Wegovy. Its accessibility is vital for patients managing obesity and related health issues.
