Delhi HC Allows Sun Pharma to Export Weight-Loss Drugs

The Delhi High Court has allowed Sun Pharma to make and export its weight-loss drugs that contain semaglutide.

However, they cannot sell these drugs in India until March 2026, when Novo Nordisk's patent expires.

The court also asked Sun Pharma to promise they will only export to places where Novo Nordisk does not have a patent.

This decision is similar to a recent case where another company, Dr. Reddy's Laboratories, was allowed to do the same.

Novo Nordisk is challenging this decision in a higher court.

These drugs help people manage their weight and blood sugar levels.

Many Indian companies are interested in making these drugs because there is a big demand for them worldwide.

New research shows that an oral version of the drug could be just as effective as the injectable form, which might make it more popular in India.

Novo Nordisk has also launched Ozempic, a once-weekly semaglutide injection for type-2 diabetes, in India.

The drug is priced starting at ₹2,200 per week and is available in 0.25 mg, 0.5 mg, and 1 mg doses.

Ozempic is approved in India as an adjunct to diet and exercise for adults with type-2 diabetes and has become a significant part of diabetes guidelines in several countries due to its multi-benefit profile.

The launch comes at a critical time for India, which has the second-highest number of people living with diabetes in the world after China, and a rising obesity rate.