Pharmaceutical giant Lupin has tempered its initial projections for the GLP-1 weight-loss drug market, stating that the segment is not expanding as rapidly as previously anticipated. Despite this revised outlook, the company remains committed to the weight-loss sector, planning significant investments in next-generation therapies and global market expansion.
Ramesh Swaminathan, Executive Director and Global Chief Financial Officer at Lupin, confirmed to Business Today that while the overall GLP-1 space isn't developing to its initial perceived size, it will remain a crucial part of Lupin's business. Lupin currently holds the top position in India for semaglutide, a popular GLP-1 agonist.
Lupin's Strategy Beyond Semaglutide
Looking beyond its current success, Lupin is actively developing bofenglutide, described by Swaminathan as a long-acting treatment designed for fortnightly administration. This indicates a strategic move towards more convenient dosing schedules for patients.
The company is also working on an in-house oral semaglutide program as part of its broader, long-term GLP-1 platform strategy. Rajeev Sibal, President, India Region Formulations at Lupin, emphasized this multi-focal approach, stating, "Our GLP-1 platform strategy has a multi-focal approach that includes advancing our own internal pipeline, extending beyond the initial injectable launches. Our in-house oral semaglutide programme is an element that we are actively developing and aiming to bring to market."
Global Expansion and Evolving Market
Lupin aims to expand its semaglutide business beyond India, targeting markets such as South Africa, Canada, and Brazil. This global push reflects the company's ambition to capture a wider international patient base.
The GLP-1 market itself is undergoing rapid evolution, with new products and drug combinations, including GLP-1/GIP treatments, entering the competitive landscape. Swaminathan acknowledged this shift, noting, "There is going to be a lot of newer products in the market and it is going to be a competitive space."
Lupin has also built its injectable portfolio through strategic partnerships, including an agreement with Zydus Lifesciences to co-market semaglutide in India and a collaboration with China's Gan & Lee for bofenglutide. Furthermore, the company supports patients through its Humrahi programme, offering counselling, injection training, and adherence support for those on long-term obesity treatments.
While reassessing the market size, Lupin remains cautiously optimistic, preparing for a future with diverse molecules, combination therapies, and varied delivery formats, ensuring GLP-1s remain a significant component of its business.