Pharma News
This Week
Mar 18, 2026
India's affordable weight-loss medications, Ozempic and Wegovy, may transform the global battle against obesity - BBC
India's pharmaceutical industry, valued at approximately $60 billion, is projected to double by 2030, driven by generics. This growth sets the stage for increased competition over semaglutide, an expensive injection that may soon become more accessible to a broader patient base.
Mar 18, 2026
India is set to welcome 50 generic versions of Wegovy - Altitudes Magazine
The patent for semaglutide, the active ingredient in Novo Nordisk's weight-loss drugs Ozempic and Wegovy, expires in India this Friday. This could lead to the introduction of around 50 generics, significantly reducing prices and increasing access for millions. Analysts predict the Indian semaglutide market could reach $1 billion, potentially reshaping global obesity treatment.
Mar 17, 2026
Assessing the 2026 Orphan Drug Report - PharmiWeb.com
A new report by Evaluate reveals that orphan drugs will account for over 21% of prescription pharmaceuticals by 2032, generating over $400 billion in sales. Johnson & Johnson's Darzalex is projected to be the top-selling orphan drug, with nearly $31 billion in sales. Despite challenges, orphan drugs remain resilient in the evolving pharma landscape.
Mar 17, 2026
Indian Pharmaceutical Companies Set to Introduce Generic Semaglutide Following Ozempic Patent Expiration
The patent for semaglutide, the active ingredient in Novo Nordisk's Ozempic and Wegovy, will expire in India on March 20, 2026, allowing Indian companies like Sun Pharmaceutical, Zydus Lifesciences, and Lupin to launch generics. This shift is expected to enhance access to diabetes and obesity treatments, reshaping the market and increasing competition for GLP-1 therapies.
Mar 17, 2026
Celgene Confronts Key Challenge with Upcoming Patent Expirations - Ad-hoc-news.de
Celgene is navigating significant challenges as its blockbuster drugs face patent expirations, leading to increased competition from generics like pomalidomid. The company is focusing on novel protein degraders in late-stage trials to sustain its market leadership in the immunomodulator segment. Upcoming quarterly reports will reveal the impact of these developments on Celgene's revenue and market position.
Mar 17, 2026
The expiration of the patent will allow for the introduction of Semaglutide generics at prices that are 25% of the current rates.
On March 20, the patent for Semaglutide will expire, allowing seven Indian pharma companies, including Sun Pharma and Dr Reddy’s Labs, to launch generics at significantly reduced prices. Monthly costs are expected to drop from Rs 10,000-12,000 to Rs 3,000-4,000. Zydus Lifesciences and Lupin have partnered to market Semaglutide with an innovative delivery system, enhancing patient access and adherence.
Mar 17, 2026
Boomray announces peptide-drug conjugates aimed at FAP - BioWorld
Boomray Co. Ltd. has developed new peptide-drug conjugates that combine a radionuclide-labeled probe with a fibroblast activation protein α (FAP)-targeting peptide. These conjugates show promise for diagnosing and treating cancer, inflammation, atherosclerosis, fibrosis, and scars.
Mar 17, 2026
Pharmacokinetics: Understanding Its Principles Beyond Natural Laws | Insights - Holland & Knight
A U.S. District Court ruling upheld Astellas Pharma's patents for Myrbetriq® (mirabegron) against Ascent Pharmaceuticals' challenge. The court found that the patents, covering specific sustained-release formulations and treatment methods for overactive bladder, were not invalid under Section 101. Ascent's generic version will be delayed as the patents were deemed patent-eligible and infringed.
Mar 17, 2026
Indian Court Issues Ruling on Novartis Drug Patent Following 15-Year Wait - Whalesbook
The Delhi High Court criticized India's patent office for a 15-year delay in deciding Novartis AG's patent application for Ribociclib, a breast cancer drug. Justice Jyoti Singh ordered resolution within four months, emphasizing the need for efficient intellectual property processes. The delay raises concerns about market exclusivity and investor confidence in Novartis, which holds over 60% of the Ribociclib market share.
Mar 17, 2026
FTC Antitrust Director Discusses Examination of Pharmaceutical Industry as Major Patents Approach Expiration - IndexBox
The U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is closely monitoring anticompetitive practices in the pharmaceutical sector as key patents near expiration. The FTC's antitrust chief emphasized the importance of ensuring generic drug entry and evaluating mergers' impacts on innovation and drug development. The agency remains focused on healthcare, having previously blocked certain transactions to prevent increased costs and reduced innovation.
Mar 17, 2026
Novo Nordisk dismisses the possibility of a price war with the introduction of semaglutide generics in India - Business Standard
Novo Nordisk's semaglutide patent is set to expire in India, allowing generic competitors like Sun Pharmaceutical, Zydus Lifesciences, and Dr Reddy’s Laboratories to enter the market. Despite anticipated price drops of 60-70%, Novo Nordisk aims to focus on scientific quality and expanding the obesity treatment market, emphasizing the need for increased patient access and awareness.
Mar 17, 2026
AstraZeneca's Imfinzi Receives EU Approval for Gastric Cancer Treatment - TradingView
AstraZeneca's Imfinzi (durvalumab) has received European Commission approval as the first perioperative treatment for early gastric and gastroesophageal junction cancers, in combination with FLOT chemotherapy. This decision follows positive results from the Phase III MATTERHORN study, showing significant survival benefits. Imfinzi is already approved in the U.S. and is a key revenue driver for AstraZeneca, generating $6.1 billion in sales.
Mar 17, 2026
Experts recommend that public health plans should include coverage for generic versions of weight-loss medications once they become available.
Obesity experts advocate for public health plans to cover GLP-1 medications like Ozempic and Wegovy, as many Canadians face financial barriers to access. With generics of semaglutide expected soon, experts believe universal coverage is inevitable, potentially reducing healthcare costs. Current coverage is limited, primarily for Type 2 diabetes, leaving many without support for weight management.
Mar 17, 2026
Pfizer Encounters Opportunities and Challenges During Transition | Intellectia.AI
Argus has upgraded Pfizer to a Buy rating from Hold, setting a price target of $35. The firm is optimistic about Pfizer's GLP-1 pipeline and its strong oncology and hematology programs, expressing increased confidence in the company's growth potential beyond 2028 due to accelerated R&D and successful product launches.
Mar 17, 2026
Can Bristol Myers Squibb's pipeline approach mitigate the impact of a significant patent expiration? - Labiotech.eu
Bristol Myers Squibb is navigating a significant patent cliff, reshaping its pipeline strategy through R&D and acquisitions. Key drugs like Revlimid and Pomalyst face generic competition, while the company focuses on oncology, immunology, and neuroscience, highlighted by the $14 billion acquisition of Karuna Therapeutics and the antipsychotic Cobenfy. Future growth hinges on new therapies to offset declining legacy revenues.
Mar 17, 2026
Analyst suggests US reshoring efforts may negatively impact China's contract pharmaceutical manufacturers - SCMP
Chinese contract drug makers, including WuXi AppTec, WuXi Biologics, and WuXi XDC, face uncertain long-term revenue as US firms shift production in-house amid rising tensions. Jefferies' Cui Cui noted strong earnings visibility for 2026-2027 but limited clarity on future growth. US scrutiny of Chinese biotech firms has increased, yet interest in partnerships remains.
Mar 16, 2026
India prepares for more affordable anti-obesity medications following the expiration of Ozempic's patent - ThePrint
India is set to see a surge in obesity-focused services as the patent for Novo Nordisk's semaglutide, the active ingredient in Ozempic and Wegovy, expires on March 20. Five Indian drugmakers, including Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories and Mankind Pharma, plan to launch generic versions at half the price, potentially expanding the GLP-1 market from 10 billion to 50 billion rupees by 2030.
Mar 16, 2026
PFE or BMY: Which Major Cancer Treatment Company Is the Superior Choice at This Time? - TradingView
Pfizer (PFE) and Bristol Myers Squibb (BMY) dominate the oncology market, with PFE's oncology sales constituting 27% of its revenue. PFE's portfolio includes Ibrance and Padcev, bolstered by the acquisition of Seagen. BMY's key drug, Opdivo, has expanded with a new formulation. Analysts suggest PFE is currently a more attractive investment due to its diverse portfolio and valuation.
Mar 16, 2026
Novartis AG initiates a $12 billion stock repurchase following FDA approval and advancements in its pipeline.
Novartis AG has launched a share repurchase program targeting up to 10% of its shares over three years and received FDA approval for Cosentyx to treat adolescents with hidradenitis suppurativa. This comes as the company faces significant patent expiries, particularly for Entresto, its cardiovascular drug. The announcements reflect Novartis' strategy to bolster growth amid revenue challenges.
Mar 16, 2026
Will Merck's Latest Medications and Development Pipeline Alleviate Concerns Over Keytruda's Loss of Exclusivity? - The Globe and Mail
Merck (MRK) is preparing for long-term growth as its PD-1 inhibitor, Keytruda, approaches patent expiration in 2028. Keytruda, which generated $31.7 billion in sales in 2025, is expected to peak at $35 billion before losing exclusivity. Merck's pipeline includes promising products like Capvaxive and Winrevair, with projected commercial opportunities exceeding $70 billion by the mid-2030s.
Mar 16, 2026
Amgen Inc. Shares Remain Steady Around $366 as the Biotech Leader Aims for 12...
Amgen Inc. (ISIN: US0311621009) demonstrates resilience amid market volatility, projecting 2026 revenues of $37.85 billion, driven by strong oncology and cardiovascular drug sales. The stock closed at $366.21, up 12% year-to-date, appealing to risk-averse investors. With a dividend yield of 3.19%, Amgen remains a solid choice for European investors seeking stability in healthcare.
Mar 16, 2026
Over 50 Generic Versions of Semaglutide Set to Launch in India Following Patent Expiration for Diabetes Medication in March 2026
The patent for semaglutide, the active ingredient in Novo Nordisk's Ozempic and Wegovy, will expire in India on March 20, 2026. This is expected to lead to over 50 branded generics entering the market, significantly reducing treatment costs for diabetes and obesity. Indian companies like Dr Reddy's and Sun Pharma are preparing to launch affordable alternatives, enhancing patient access.
Mar 16, 2026
Novo Nordisk, the company behind Ozempic and Wegovy, plans to broaden its clinical trials for weight loss injections in children.
Novo Nordisk has partnered with the Murdoch Children’s Research Institute to explore obesity care for adolescents in Pacific Island nations, starting in Fiji. The collaboration aims to address rising obesity rates, with drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy playing a crucial role. CEO Mike Doustdar emphasized the need for broader access and preventive measures against childhood obesity, calling it a "ticking bomb.
Mar 16, 2026
Top Selections: Biotech focuses on cystic fibrosis research and treatments for rare diseases
Ritu Baral, managing director at TD Cowen, highlighted three biotech companies poised for growth: Sionna Therapeutics, focusing on cystic fibrosis treatments; Praxis Precision Medicines, with its ulixacaltamide for essential tremor; and Palvella Therapeutics, which recently secured a European patent for its skin disease treatment. Investors are optimistic as clinical trial data and regulatory approvals approach.
Mar 16, 2026
FDA Takes Steps to Simplify Biosimilar Development: What This Means for Regulatory and Intellectual Property Approaches
The FDA has updated its biosimilar guidance, eliminating the requirement for a three-way pharmacokinetic bridging study, which could reduce development costs by up to 50%. This change aims to facilitate faster market entry for biosimilars, enhancing competition as many blockbuster drug patents expire. The new framework encourages the use of foreign comparator products, aligning U.S. regulations with international standards.
Mar 16, 2026
Patent Expiration for Semaglutide in India May Lead to 50% Reduction in Weight-Loss Medication Prices
India's obesity-drug market is poised for change as Novo Nordisk's semaglutide patent expires on March 20, allowing companies like Mankind Pharma, Ajanta Pharma, and Dr. Reddy's Laboratories to introduce cheaper alternatives. These generics could be 50% less expensive, expanding access to weight-loss medications. Healthcare providers are preparing for increased demand with new clinics and programs, while the GLP-1 market may grow significantly by 2030.
Mar 16, 2026
SciSparc and NeuroThera Labs Partner with Clearmind Medicine to Secure Patent ... - Finviz
SciSparc Ltd. announced that its majority-owned subsidiary, NeuroThera Labs Inc., has collaborated with Clearmind Medicine Inc. to file a patent for a novel combination therapy targeting major depressive disorder. The treatment combines Clearmind’s 5-methoxy-2-aminoindane (MEAI) with Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA), aiming to offer a safer, non-hallucinogenic alternative to traditional antidepressants.
Mar 16, 2026
Producers of generic medications are gearing up to introduce cost-effective alternatives following the expiration of Novo's patent for ... - Mint
Indian pharmaceutical companies, including Ajanta Pharma, Dr Reddy's Laboratories, Lupin, Mankind Pharma, and Sun Pharmaceuticals, are set to launch affordable generic versions of semaglutide after Novo Nordisk's patent expires on March 20. Over 50 brands are expected to enter the market, with prices projected to drop by 40-50%, enhancing obesity management services across healthcare facilities.
Mar 16, 2026
SciSparc Partners with NeuroThera Labs and Clearmind Medicine - GlobeNewswire
SciSparc Ltd. announced that its majority-owned subsidiary, NeuroThera Labs Inc., has collaborated with Clearmind Medicine Inc. to file a patent for a novel combination therapy targeting major depressive disorder. The treatment combines Clearmind’s 5-methoxy-2-aminoindane (MEAI) with Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA), aiming to offer a safer, non-hallucinogenic alternative to traditional antidepressants.
Mar 16, 2026
SciSparc's division supports Hong Kong patent for MDD treatment | SPRC Stock Update
SciSparc Ltd. announced a collaboration between its subsidiary NeuroThera Labs Inc. and Clearmind Medicine Inc. to file a patent for a novel depression therapy combining Clearmind's 5-methoxy-2-aminoindane (MEAI) with Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA). This non-hallucinogenic treatment aims to provide a safer, more accessible alternative to traditional antidepressants, potentially benefiting over 332 million people globally.
Mar 16, 2026
Affordable Generic Ozempic Set to Arrive in India: Patent Expiration Triggers Surge in Weight-Loss Medications - NDTV
India is set to see a surge in obesity treatments as local drugmakers prepare to launch off-patent versions of Novo Nordisk's semaglutide, the active ingredient in Ozempic and Wegovy, after its patent expires on March 20. Companies like Mankind Pharma, Ajanta Pharma, and Sun Pharmaceutical are expected to offer these generics at half the price, prompting increased demand for obesity management services across the country.
Mar 16, 2026
Palvella Therapeutics Reveals Granting of European Patent for Anhydrous...
Palvella Therapeutics has secured European Patent No. 3565520 for its lead product candidate, QTORIN™ rapamycin, extending patent protection until 2038. This anhydrous gel formulation targets serious, rare skin diseases, including microcystic lymphatic malformations, for which there are currently no FDA-approved therapies. QTORIN™ rapamycin has also received European Orphan Drug Designation, potentially granting 10 years of market exclusivity upon approval.
Mar 15, 2026
Delhi Police Dismantles Interstate Drug Trafficking Network, Arrests Four Suppliers
Delhi Police's Crime Branch has dismantled a significant interstate psychotropic drug supply network involving Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, and Punjab. Four suppliers were arrested during the operation, highlighting ongoing efforts to combat drug trafficking in the region.
Mar 15, 2026
OICCI expresses disagreement with amendments to the patents ordinance - Business - DAWN.COM
The Overseas Investors Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OICCI) has raised concerns over a proposed amendment to Section 30(3) of the Patents Ordinance 2000 in Pakistan. The amendment could weaken patent enforcement, hinder innovation, and discourage foreign investment by removing legal actions against potential patent infringements, particularly affecting the availability of patented medicines.
Mar 15, 2026
J&K&L High Court Dismisses Drug Case Due to Expired Sample Shelf Life, States Accused's...
The J&K High Court has quashed a drugs case against the Managing Director of a pharmaceutical company, emphasizing that the expiration of the drug sample's shelf life infringes on the accused's right to seek re-analysis. This ruling highlights the importance of statutory protections in drug quality prosecutions under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act.
Mar 15, 2026
US1078421011 Encounters Challenges from Biosimilars Amidst Oncology Patent Expiration - Ad-hoc-news.de
Bristol-Myers Squibb (BMS) faces significant revenue challenges in 2026 due to impending biosimilar competition for its key drugs, Keytruda and Opdivo. The company is focusing on its robust R&D pipeline and potential M&A to offset losses. European investors should closely monitor BMS's performance amid pricing pressures and the impact of the patent cliff on its financial outlook.
Mar 15, 2026
More than 20,000 narcotic tablets, along with thousands of capsules and injections, confiscated in Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and Punjab.
Authorities have dismantled a multi-state drug racket near the Nepal border, seizing over 20,000 narcotic tablets, thousands of capsules, and injections in Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and Punjab. The coordinated raids targeted the distribution of misused drugs, including banned cough syrups, highlighting ongoing efforts to combat drug trafficking in the region.
Mar 15, 2026
Participants in Nigeria's healthcare industry have introduced a mobile application designed to monitor counterfeit antibiotics.
Stakeholders in Nigeria's health sector have introduced the Community Access to Effective Antibiotics (COM-WATCH) mobile app to combat the spread of fake antibiotics and enhance access to authentic medications in underserved areas. The initiative is supported by the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) and the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC).
Mar 15, 2026
CareEdge predicts the weight-loss medication market will reach Rs 5000 crore by 2030 - Business News
The weight-loss drugs market in India is projected to grow to Rs 5,000 crore by 2030, driven by the patent expiry of Novo Nordisk’s Semaglutide. Price reductions of up to 50% are expected by FY2027 due to competition. Generic versions from companies like Sun Pharma and Dr Reddy’s Labs are set to launch post-expiry, despite safety concerns and manufacturing challenges.
Mar 15, 2026
India's struggle against evergreening: The year 2026 could put the drug patent system to the test - Business Standard
Novo Nordisk's patent on semaglutide, the active ingredient in weight-loss drugs like Rybelsus, Ozempic, and Wegovy, expires in India and Canada on March 20, 2026. Indian courts are increasingly challenging patent evergreening, allowing generics like Natco Pharma's Risdiplam and Zydus Lifesciences' Nivolumab to enter the market, potentially reshaping access to affordable medications.
Mar 15, 2026
Key Insights on the Potential of GLP-1 Medications in Combating Addiction - Lee News Central
A new study published in the BMJ reveals that GLP-1 drugs, including Ozempic and Mounjaro, may help prevent substance use disorders among diabetes patients. Analyzing over 600,000 U.S. Veterans Affairs patients, researchers found those on GLP-1 medications had lower addiction rates and reduced risks of hospitalization, overdose, and death, suggesting these drugs may address the root causes of cravings.
Mar 15, 2026
Increased Regulatory Oversight for Novo Nordisk Regarding Medication Safety Reporting
The FDA has mandated Novo Nordisk to submit a corrective action plan after an inspection revealed serious flaws in adverse event reporting for its semaglutide drugs, Ozempic and Wegovy. The company faces increased scrutiny amid a significant stock decline, with shares dropping over 50% in the past year. Novo Nordisk is working to improve its reporting procedures.
