Patent Expiry Opens Doors for Generic Versions
On March 11, Boehringer Ingelheim’s (BI) blockbuster diabetes drug, Empagliflozin, lost its patent protection, allowing generic drugmakers to enter the market immediately. Leading Indian pharmaceutical companies, including Alkem, Glenmark, and Mankind Pharma, have already launched their versions of the drug. More manufacturers are expected to follow suit in the coming months.
Drastic Price Reduction Benefits Patients
With the launch of generics, the cost of Empagliflozin has dropped significantly. Mankind Pharma’s Vice Chairman and Managing Director, Rajeev Juneja, announced that their version is priced 90% lower than the original, with a 10 mg tablet now costing approximately ₹5.50 compared to the innovator price of ₹59. This marks one of the steepest price reductions for a diabetes medication.
India’s Diabetes Burden and Market Potential
India has the second-largest diabetic population in the world, with nearly 100 million people living with the condition. The domestic market for Empagliflozin is estimated to be worth ₹700 crore. Mankind Pharma has managed to keep costs low by producing the active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) in-house, ensuring affordability for a larger patient base.
Alkem’s Security Features and Multilingual Patient Support
Alkem Laboratories launched its version under the brand name “Empanorm,” pricing it approximately 80% lower than the original. To combat counterfeit drugs, the company has introduced an anti-counterfeit security band on the packaging. Additionally, Empanorm packs include QR codes that provide prescribing information and patient education on diabetes, heart failure, and chronic kidney disease in 11 languages, enhancing accessibility and patient awareness.
Glenmark Introduces Multiple Strengths and Combinations
Glenmark Pharmaceuticals has entered the market with its own Empagliflozin-based products under the brand name “Glempa.” The company offers various strengths—10 mg and 25 mg—and has introduced fixed-dose combinations (FDCs) to enhance treatment flexibility. These include:
- Glempa-L (Empagliflozin 10/25 mg + Linagliptin 5 mg)
- Glempa-M (Empagliflozin 12.5 mg + Metformin 500/1000 mg)
These combinations aim to improve glycemic control in adults with Type II diabetes while also reducing cardiovascular risks. Glenmark emphasized that its range of products provides multiple treatment options, improving both flexibility and effectiveness.
BI’s Future in the Indian Market
As reported by thehindubusinessline, despite the influx of generics, Boehringer Ingelheim is expected to continue marketing Jardiance (Empagliflozin) in India. Previously, the company had pursued legal measures to delay generic competition, but with the patent now expired, it will need to compete in a significantly more affordable market.
A New Era for Diabetes Treatment
With multiple players entering the market, the availability of affordable Empagliflozin marks a significant shift in diabetes treatment accessibility. Patients across India will now benefit from cost-effective options, potentially improving adherence to medication and overall health outcomes.