Aspen eyes 2026 launch of affordable GLP-1 generics

SOUTH AFRICA – Aspen Pharmacare, Africa’s leading pharmaceutical company, has announced plans to produce generic versions of GLP-1 receptor agonists—medications used to treat type 2 diabetes and obesity—by 2026.

This strategic move aims to provide more affordable treatment options in emerging markets where the burden of these conditions is significant and access to medication is often limited.

The Durban-based firm has secured a commercial license for the intellectual property necessary to manufacture these generics, positioning itself to enter markets as patents for originator drugs expire.

Aspen is focusing on regions outside of Europe and the U.S., where demand for cost-effective healthcare solutions is high.

Aspen’s existing partnerships with major pharmaceutical companies bolster its capabilities.

In 2023, the company entered into a distribution and promotion agreement with Eli Lilly to extend access to Lilly’s innovative portfolio of medicines, including the diabetes drug Mounjaro, in South Africa and Sub-Saharan Africa.

Additionally, Aspen has collaborated with Novo Nordisk to establish South Africa’s first production facility for human insulin, aiming to address the critical shortage of insulin in Africa.

Aspen has invested heavily in manufacturing sterile products, including medicines injected directly into the bloodstream.

Over the next two years, earnings at Aspen’s manufacturing unit are expected to be supported by increased sterile filling capacity.

The global market for weight-loss drugs is projected to reach at least US $173.5 billion by the end of the decade.

Aspen’s entry into the production of generic GLP-1 drugs positions it to tap into this growing market, particularly by addressing the needs of patients in emerging economies.