Semaglutide-based drugs are about to get more affordable

Generic versions of Semaglutide are coming to Canada in early 2026. These will contain the exact same active ingredient as the branded medications Ozempic and Wegovy.

When the first generics arrive, the cost of Semaglutide-based drugs is expected to drop significantly, with further reductions as more generics enter the market. Brand-name prices are also likely to come down, as competition increases.

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FAQ

What are generic drugs?

Generic medications are basically copies of brand name medications. They are authorized for sale by Health Canada to have the exact same active pharmaceutical ingredients and therapeutic effect as the original brand.

How do generics impact drug pricing?

In Canada, the government and generic manufacturers have a pricing framework in place that lowers the price of generics as more of them enter the market. Learn more about generic pricing framework here.

Number of generics	Est. generic price (vs. brand)*
1 generic available	$240 per pen (~75% of brand price)
2 generics available	$160 per pen (~50% of brand price)
3 or more generics available	$112 per pen (~35% of brand price)

^{*Based on the current brand price of $320 per pen}

Again, brand name prices are expected to drop as well as competition increases.

Can I trust generics if they’re cheaper?

Yes! Generic medications are strictly regulated by Health Canada to ensure they are just as safe, effective, and high-quality as the original brand-name drugs.

To be authorized for sale, generic medications must contain the same active ingredient, be the same strength, dosage, and form, work the same way in the body, and meet the same safety, quality, and manufacturing standards.

When will prices start to drop?

The exact timing is still uncertain. Prices will likely fall in stages over the year as more generic manufacturers enter the market. It may also take some time for these companies to scale up production, so availability could be limited at first or even sporadically throughout the year depending on demand and production capacity.

Will all Semaglutide-based drugs be impacted?

Because only semaglutide is going off-patent, lower prices are expected for semaglutide medications, but not necessarily others.