Hims & Hers Set to Introduce Generic Semaglutide in Canada After patent expiration

Making Affordable Weight Management Accessible Nationwide

With the expiration of Novo Nordisk’s patent on semaglutide-based drugs Ozempic and Wegovy scheduled for January, Hims & Hers health is preparing to launch a generic version of semaglutide in Canada. This initiative marks the company’s debut in the Canadian market, aiming to deliver affordable, high-quality obesity treatment through telehealth platforms.

Andrew Dudum, CEO and co-founder of Hims & Hers, highlighted the opportunity: “Canada offers a significant platform to showcase how personalized and cost-effective weight management can be scaled efficiently.” By introducing generic semaglutide globally for the first time, they plan to blend affordability with trusted medical supervision.

The Expanding Demand for Semaglutide Treatments Across Canada

The Canadian market generated approximately $1.18 billion from semaglutide therapies in 2024 alone. Projections indicate this figure could soar beyond $4 billion by 2035 as demand intensifies for effective obesity interventions amid rising health concerns.

Currently,no Health Canada-approved generic versions are available; however,pharmaceutical companies have begun submitting regulatory applications. For example, Sandoz-a global leader in generics-has already filed for approval with Canadian authorities.

Differentiating Between Generic Drugs and Compounded Formulations

Generic medications like those planned by hims & Hers are chemically identical copies of brand-name drugs such as Ozempic or Wegovy. They adhere strictly to safety and efficacy standards once patents expire. This contrasts with compounded medications that pharmacists individually tailor but lack standardized commercial approval or consistent quality assurance.

The patent Expiry Story: How Novo Nordisk Lost Exclusivity Rights in Canada

Novo Nordisk’s patent protection on semaglutide ended after missing required maintenance fee payments since 2018. Despite a one-year grace period allowing late fees payment, the company did not renew its patent rights with Canadian regulators.

This administrative lapse caused an official expiry around 2020; though, legal recognition places expiration at January 2025 under Canadian law. Once lapsed patents cannot be reinstated according to national regulations.

Implications for Competition and Innovation within Pharma Markets

“Expanding access to affordable comprehensive obesity care can strengthen healthcare systems locally while empowering millions across Canada toward healthier lifestyles,” stated david Meinertz from Hims & Hers’ international division.

This growth opens opportunities for multiple manufacturers eager to enter Canada’s lucrative GLP-1 receptor agonist segment amid growing competition from rivals like Eli Lilly’s Zepbound product gaining momentum throughout North America as early 2025.

Industry Responses Following Patent Loss and Market Shifts

• Evolving Competitive Landscape: novo Nordisk faced scrutiny over allowing its patent protections on Wegovy-related products lapse amidst increasing pressure from Eli Lilly’s Zepbound capturing U.S market share during early 2025.
• Tensions Between Innovators and Generics: In response to these changes, Novo Nordisk terminated its partnership with Hims & Hers citing concerns about promotional activities related to lower-cost alternatives resembling their branded drug Wegovy.
• Teleservices Growth: The recent acquisition of European telehealth provider Zava has expanded Hims & Hers’ footprint into Ireland, France, and Germany-signaling ambitions beyond North America fueled partly by new offerings such as generic semaglutide availability overseas.

A New Era: Scaling affordable Obesity Care Through Telemedicine Platforms

The arrival of approved generic options promises ample cost savings while maintaining clinical effectiveness comparable with original branded treatments-potentially revolutionizing access barriers faced by many patients managing obesity worldwide today.

“As more generics enter regulated markets like Canada’s healthcare system over coming years,” analysts forecast “patients will benefit financially alongside enhanced personalized care models enabled via digital health technologies.”

• A recent survey revealed nearly 60% of Canadians show interest in telemedicine solutions targeting chronic illnesses including obesity-related conditions.*
• An increasing number of pharmacies nationwide have started stocking authorized generic GLP-1 receptor agonists anticipating regulatory approvals expected soon.*

A Transformative Shift Toward Accessible Weight Loss Solutions Across Borders

This transition toward accessible generics combined with innovative delivery methods reflects an evolving healthcare landscape were affordability meets convenience without sacrificing quality or safety standards-a promising outlook given that over 30% of Canadian adults currently face obesity challenges annually among developed nations worldwide.