The cost of Empagliflozin, a key medication used in diabetes treatment, is set to drop dramatically following its patent expiration on Monday. Indian pharmaceutical companies, including Mankind Pharma and Dr. Reddy’s, are poised to introduce generic versions of the drug at a fraction of the current price—expected to be around 20 to 30 percent of the existing cost. This move is anticipated to significantly reduce monthly medication expenses for diabetes patients, making the treatment more accessible.
Empagliflozin is part of a class of drugs known as SGLT-2 inhibitors, which help manage blood sugar levels by preventing the kidneys from reabsorbing glucose, thereby promoting its elimination through urine. This class of medication has become crucial in the management of diabetes, particularly for patients with kidney complications. The drug’s role has expanded in recent years, with many newly diagnosed diabetics now being prescribed SGLT-2 inhibitors as part of their treatment regimen.
Dr. Ambrish Mithal, chairperson of endocrinology and diabetes at Max Healthcare, noted that about 80% of newly diagnosed diabetes patients in his clinic are now prescribed these medications. Empagliflozin, in particular, is known for its ability to slow the progression of kidney disease, reduce heart failure risks, and prevent dangerous hypoglycemic episodes. Additionally, it helps patients manage weight, addressing a significant risk factor for various chronic diseases.
With the expiration of Empagliflozin’s patent, the price of the branded version, Jardiance, which previously cost up to Rs 71 per tablet, is expected to decrease to around Rs 10-11 per tablet. This price reduction is expected to increase the availability and use of the drug among diabetic patients.
This change mirrors the market shift that occurred after the patent expiration of Dapagliflozin in 2020, which saw the emergence of hundreds of generic brands. “The availability of multiple brands and combination drugs for Dapagliflozin greatly expanded treatment options for diabetics. The market for Empagliflozin is currently valued at approximately Rs 758 crore,” explained Sheetal Sapale, vice president of commercial at Pharmarack.
While the availability of more SGLT-2 inhibitor options for diabetes treatment is a positive development, Dr. Mithal emphasized that the impact of Empagliflozin’s patent expiry may not be as significant as the Dapagliflozin shift, given that generic versions of the latter are already widespread. Nonetheless, the affordability of Empagliflozin will provide more choices for patients and may encourage wider adoption of the drug.
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