Generic versions of semaglutide, the active ingredient in the brand-name diabetes and weight-loss drug Ozempic, are starting to appear in Canadian pharmacies this week, with availability varying by location. Health Canada has approved generic semaglutide from Dr. Reddy’s and Apotex about three weeks ago. Multiple outlets report that some pharmacies received the first supply last week, including select Rexall and Shoppers Drug Mart locations, while broader availability is expected as shipments continue.
Pharmacy reports cited by outlets indicate that the generic options reduce the monthly cost to roughly $100, depending on the pharmacy and pricing at the time of sale. Globe and Mail’s business coverage also reports that Apotex prices its version at less than a third of the cost of the brand-name product.
In parallel, Ozempic’s manufacturer reduces the brand-name price as the generics enter the market, which may affect the gap in cost between branded and generic semaglutide. Overall, sources agree generics are expected to lower costs for patients and increase demand, though they differ mainly in the timing and extent of rollout across the country.
