Generic Ozempic, Wegovy Ease Access in Canada

0:00It's March 28th. Welcome to Canada News Today, powered by AI. I'm Corey with the story. Patents on Ozympic and Wig of E just expired in Canada, back in January, opening the door for generic versions of these popular weight loss drugs. Right now, folks are shelling out $300 to $400 a month because Novo Nordisk had the market locked down. These meds work by mimicking a gut hormone that controls blood sugar, slows digestion, and makes you feel full longer. Patents like Dr. Sanji Sakalingam from Obesity Canada say high prices are blocking access for tons of patients trying to manage obesity. Patients and doctors are feeling the pinch hard, with costs being the biggest barrier to using these as a key tool against weight issues. It's frustrating when one effective option stays out of reach for so many. Health Canada is reviewing nine submissions for generic semaglutide right now, and companies like Sanda's aim to launch by the end of June with others. Like Opeltex and Tiva in the mix.

1:00Over in India, generic hit shells immediately, going for as low as $19 Canadian dollars a month. Analysts predict cheaper options could flood Canada by mid-summer or early fall, easing the burden and boosting access once approvals roll through. Keep an eye on this, it could change the game for weight management nationwide.