Pharma dispute reaches Delhi High Court over semaglutide
Novo Nordisk has moved the Delhi High Court seeking to stop Dr Reddy’s Laboratories from manufacturing and exporting semaglutide until March 2026. The filing aims to temporarily block activities related to the medicine while the legal process plays out.
What’s at stake
Semaglutide is a high-profile drug used for diabetes management and, increasingly, for weight loss. Any court-ordered pause on its manufacture or export by an Indian manufacturer could affect global supply chains, pricing dynamics, and the timelines for patients and markets that rely on more affordable alternatives.
Possible implications for the industry
- Supply and pricing: A block on production and exports could reduce available volumes from a major generics supplier, potentially tightening global supply and keeping prices higher for longer.
- Trade and exports: India is a significant exporter of generic medicines. Legal restraints on one manufacturer can influence trade flows and competitors’ strategies.
- Competitive landscape: The move underscores the tensions between originator companies protecting IP and generic firms seeking to enter lucrative markets.
- Regulatory and legal precedent: The court’s decision may shape how similar disputes over patented biologics and newer therapies are handled in India.
What to watch next
Key developments to follow include the court’s assessment of the legal arguments, any interim relief granted, and whether the dispute prompts negotiations between the firms. The March 2026 date sets a clear timeframe for the sought restriction, but outcomes could change earlier depending on judicial rulings or settlements.
Stakeholders—from healthcare providers to exporters—will be watching closely for updates that affect production timelines and market access for semaglutide products. The case also highlights broader questions about access, innovation, and the balance between patent protection and public health needs.