Hyderabad-based Dr Reddy’s Laboratories has applied to trademark the brand name and logo “Obeda”, according to sources.
The proposed brand is expected to be the company’s version of semaglutide, the active ingredient used in blockbuster diabetes and weight-loss drugs like Ozempic.
Semaglutide is widely prescribed for type 2 diabetes and is also used globally for weight management under medical supervision. The patent for semaglutide in India is set to expire soon, opening the door for Indian pharmaceutical companies to launch lower-cost generic versions.
Sources indicate that Dr Reddy’s generic version, likely to be sold under the Obeda brand, could be priced up to 60 per cent lower than the existing branded medicines currently available in the market.
If confirmed, this could significantly improve access to treatment for patients managing diabetes and obesity.
India has one of the largest populations living with diabetes, and obesity rates are rising steadily.
Experts say affordable versions of semaglutide could help expand treatment access beyond metro cities, especially for middle-income patients who currently find the therapy expensive.
While the company has not officially announced launch timelines, the trademark application signals preparations ahead of patent expiry and possible market entry.
