$NOVO B (-1,6 %) Novo Nordisk's blockbuster Ozempic could lose patent protection in Canada. The pharmaceutical giant is facing potential generic competitors and falling share prices.
Novo Nordisk's blockbuster Ozempic is breaking sales records worldwide and is considered the Danish pharmaceutical company's cash cow. But now a surprising glitch in Canada is causing considerable unrest: a crucial patent for the coveted diabetes and weight loss drug is on the line. Is there a threat of an expensive surprise that could significantly intensify competition?
Ozempic patent in Canada at risk
Current concerns focus on the patent for semaglutide, the active ingredient in Ozempic, in the Canadian market. According to reports, Novo Nordisk is at risk of losing this patent protection because a fee due for its maintenance has allegedly not been paid. An avoidable mistake with potentially serious consequences.
If the patent is indeed declared invalid, this could open the door for generics manufacturers much sooner than expected. The Canadian market is certainly relevant for Ozempic: Last year alone, sales there amounted to 2.5 billion US dollars. According to reports, the generics manufacturer Sandoz has already submitted an application for approval of a copycat version. This illustrates how quickly the competitive landscape could change.
