Alkem enters semaglutide race with wallet-friendly pens 

Key Highlights: 

• Alkem has launched its semaglutide injection in India under three brands: Semasize, Obesema, and Hepaglide, for once-weekly subcutaneous use. The therapy is approved for type 2 diabetes and chronic weight management as an adjunct to diet and exercise, following DCGI clearance based on Phase 3 trials in India 

• With affordability at the core, Alkem has introduced a pre-filled disposable pen priced from ~₹1,800 per month (~₹450 per week), aiming to lower barriers to initiation and expand access. The pen contains four doses for a month, aligning with the weekly dosing schedule and simplifying treatment for patients 

• To further support long-term therapy, Alkem is also offering a reusable injection pen for higher maintenance doses, allowing patients to replace only the cartridge instead of the entire device, helping reduce costs and improve adherence. Backed by its distribution network and patient-friendly devices, the company aims to widen reach while delivering its indigenously developed semaglutide across India 

Implications: 

By pricing its once‑weekly semaglutide at around ₹450 per week via a pre‑filled disposable pen, Alkem is positioning one of the lowest‑cost GLP‑1 options in India, which can materially lower initiation barriers for both type 2 diabetes and obesity patients. 
The twin-pen strategy—starter disposable plus reusable for higher maintenance doses, leverages Alkem’s wide distribution network to drive long‑term adherence and could help the company capture share across income tiers as GLP‑1 usage broadens beyond metros. 

Source: Alkem | Image: Alkem