South Africa: The First Generic Weight Loss Drug Hit South Africa In August - With Many Expected To Follow. Will It Be Enough To Kill The Black Market?

South Africa welcomed the first generic weight loss drug in August, with several more on the horizon. This development has many anticipating a significant impact on the black market, which has flourished due to the high cost of blockbuster GLP-1 drugs. The introduction of cheaper generics could potentially lower prices enough to eliminate the illicit market and provide affordable treatment for those in need, including public-sector patients.

The GLP-1 drugs, initially developed from a molecule found in the venom of the Gila monster, work by slowing digestion, promoting feelings of fullness and stabilizing blood sugar levels. Drugs like Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro and Zepbound have become billion-dollar industries, yet their high prices make them inaccessible to many. With patents for the active ingredient in semaglutide expiring in various countries, the generics market has opened up, with Sun Pharma launching the first generic semaglutide injection in South Africa in March.

However, the success of generics in curbing the black market and ensuring treatment for all those who require it remains to be seen.