Teva launches first US generic Saxenda for weight loss

Teva Pharmaceuticals said on Aug. 28, 2025 that the Food and Drug Administration has approved and the company has launched a generic version of Saxenda, making it the first generic glucagon like peptide 1 receptor agonist specifically indicated for weight loss in the United States. The drug, liraglutide injection, is approved for adults with obesity or overweight who have at least one weight related medical condition and for adolescents aged 12 to 17 years who weigh more than 60 kilograms and have obesity, Teva said.

Teva senior vice president Ernie Richardsen said the approval will provide patients with the first generic GLP1 product specifically indicated for weight loss. The company characterized the launch as part of its strategy to expand complex generics and to help address growing demand for GLP1 therapies. Teva also noted this is its fifth first to market generic this year.

Liraglutide, the active molecule in the branded product Saxenda from Novo Nordisk, was first approved for chronic weight management in adults in 2014 and its pediatric indication was added in 2020. The generic carries the same indication as the branded product and is intended to be used in combination...