Natco vs Novo Nordisk: Delhi High Court Directs Mediation in Wegovy Patent Dispute

Novo Nordisk launched Wegovy in India in June 2025, shortly after global rival Eli Lilly rolled out its patented brand Mounjaro (tirzepatide) in March. Lilly recently followed it up with the launch of Mounjaro in an easy-to-use pen device form, improving upon earlier injectable syringes.

This is not Novo Nordisk’s first legal battle over semaglutide in India. In May, the Danish major had sued Dr Reddy’s Laboratories and contract manufacturer OneSource in the Delhi High Court, alleging infringement of valid patents and claiming the two were importing large quantities of the semaglutide active ingredient for making and exporting formulations. However, the court directed Novo Nordisk to furnish evidence since “there was no substantive proof to back such claims.” Earlier that same month, Dr Reddy’s had separately filed a revocation suit challenging Novo Nordisk’s patents.

The patent for semaglutide in India is due to expire in March 2026, a development expected to trigger a wave of generic launches. At least seven companies are reportedly preparing to enter the space, which could push prices down by nearly 80% from the current monthly treatment cost of Rs 17,000–26,000.

Analysts estimate that the Indian obesity drug market could expand more than tenfold, from Rs 700 crore at present to nearly Rs 8,000 crore by 2030, on the back of aggressive marketing, faster adoption by doctors, and growing patient demand.