Two generic versions of Ozempic are arriving in Canadian pharmacies this week, offering patients a more affordable option for diabetes and off-label weight loss.
Health Canada approved generics from Dr. Reddy's and Apotex three weeks ago. Apotex began shipping Tuesday. Dr. Reddy's product is already in select pharmacies.
Apotex says its version will cost about one-third the price of Novo Nordisk's Ozempic. Dr. Reddy's promises competitive pricing. Ozempic currently costs hundreds of dollars a month.
Under the pan-Canadian Pharmaceutical Alliance pricing structure, two generic drugs must be at least 50% cheaper than the brand name.
Vital, the pharmaceutical supply chain alliance, says products are moving through distributors. Availability will vary. Rexall and Shoppers Drug Mart expect shipments by the end of the week.
Health Canada continues reviewing other generic semaglutide submissions.