Sun Pharma cleared in South Africa for generic semaglutide

Sun Pharmaceutical Industries has received approval from South Africa's health regulator to manufacture and market a generic version of semaglutide injection, the company announced on July 15, 2026. The approval from the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA) covers the treatment of adults with inadequately controlled type 2 diabetes as an adjunct to diet and exercise.

The Mumbai-based drugmaker stated it plans to launch the product in South Africa in the coming days. It will be available as a prefilled, multidose injectable pen in two strengths, 2 mg and 4 mg, designed for flexible, once-weekly dosing. This makes South Africa the second market, after India, where Sun Pharma has secured clearance for its generic semaglutide.

Company Chief Operating Officer Aalok Shanghvi said the approval reflects Sun Pharma's ability to develop complex generic medicines that meet stringent quality standards across different markets. He reiterated the company's commitment to improving access to generics and making evidence-based treatments available to patients and healthcare professionals. The company noted that South Africa faces a growing burden of type 2 diabetes, driven...