Sun Pharma obtains DCGI nod to produce generic semaglutide injection for weight management in India | iPharmaCenter

Sun Pharmaceutical Industries has secured approval from the Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) to manufacture and commercialize a generic variant of semaglutide injection in the domestic market.

The therapy, belonging to the glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist class, is intended for long-term weight management in adults when combined with a healthy diet and regular physical activity.

The company will introduce its generic semaglutide injection under the brand name Noveltreat once the patent for the original molecule expires in India. This regulatory clearance follows the successful completion and review of a Phase III clinical trial conducted within the country. Noveltreat will be available in five dosage strengths, 0.25 mg/0.5 mL, 0.5 mg/0.5 mL, 1 mg/0.5 mL, 1.7 mg/0.75 mL, and 2.4 mg/0.75 mL, with a recommended maintenance dose of 2.4 mg administered weekly. The injection will be offered in a prefilled pen format to enable accurate, convenient, and user-friendly administration.

In December 2025, Sun Pharma had also received DCGI authorization to produce and market semaglutide injection for adult patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus who are unable to achieve adequate glycemic control through diet and exercise alone. That diabetes formulation will be launched as Sematrinity following the patent expiry of semaglutide in India.

GLP-1 receptor agonists, such as semaglutide, are widely used for managing type 2 diabetes and obesity. These drugs have demonstrated substantial benefits in improving blood sugar control, promoting weight reduction, and lowering the risk of cardiovascular and renal complications.

Obesity and diabetes in India | GLP opportunity in India

According to the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5), nearly one in four individuals aged 15–49 years in India are overweight or obese. Excess body weight contributes to several health issues including metabolic disorders, cardiovascular diseases, and increased cancer risk. Experts emphasize the importance of early screening, consistent treatment, and sustained lifestyle interventions to improve patient outcomes.

Data from the 2023 ICMR–INDIAB study estimated that over 101 million people in India are living with diabetes. The condition continues to impose a significant health burden, as many patients remain unable to achieve optimal HbA1c levels, increasing their risk of complications such as kidney disease, blindness, limb amputations, and heart-related events. The availability of advanced and effective therapies like semaglutide highlights the growing focus on comprehensive diabetes and obesity management in India.