Novo Nordisk can now sell its weight-loss drug in India
What's the story
Danish pharmaceutical giant Novo Nordisk has announced a partnership with Emcure Pharmaceuticals, an Indian company, to distribute its popular weight-loss drug, semaglutide (branded as Poviztra), in India. The move is part of Novo Nordisk's strategy to expand its market presence beyond metropolitan areas and high-end clinics. Under the agreement, Emcure will exclusively market and distribute Poviztra (semaglutide injection 2.4mg) in the country.
Distribution rights
Emcure 1st Indian company with exclusive semaglutide rights
This partnership makes Emcure the first Indian company to get exclusive distribution and marketing rights for semaglutide injection 2.4mg under the Poviztra brand. The drug is aimed at treating obesity and related cardiovascular risks. Jay Thyagarajan, Senior Vice President for APAC at Novo Nordisk, said this partnership "combines our innovation in GLP-1 therapies with Emcure's distribution muscle to reach more patients."
Drug details
Semaglutide's impact on weight management
Semaglutide, the active ingredient in Wegovy, has shown impressive results in clinical trials. One-third of patients using the drug have lost over 20% of their body weight. The drug is administered through a once-weekly injection pen and is approved as an adjunct to diet and exercise for chronic weight management. It also reduces the risk of major cardiovascular events in patients with obesity and heart disease.
Market reach
Emcure's role and the trend of global-pharma partnerships
Emcure CEO Satish Mehta said the company's extensive reach across India's diverse geographies will help bring Poviztra to "patients who need it the most." The Pune-based company ranks 13th in domestic pharma sales and operates in over 70 countries. This partnership is part of a larger trend of global pharma companies partnering with Indian ones to navigate complex distribution networks and regulatory landscapes.