Health Canada: Many Generics Run 45-90% Below Brand Prices

Health Canada says many generic medications are 45 to 90 per cent cheaper than brand-name versions, a benchmark now drawing fresh attention after the regulator cleared two generic semaglutide injections referencing Ozempic within roughly a week [Source: cbc.ca/news/health/ozempic-generic-health-canada-9.7180566].

The regulator's own cost-savings benchmark

In coverage of the first generic semaglutide authorization, CBC News reported Health Canada's statement that many generic medications are 45 to 90 per cent cheaper than brand-name versions [Source: cbc.ca/news/health/ozempic-generic-health-canada-9.7180566]. The department added that the availability of generic drugs is expected to have a positive impact in Canada, including potential cost savings for patients and the healthcare system [Source: canada.ca/en/health-canada/news/2026/04/canada-becomes-the-first-g7-country-to-approve-a-generic-version-of-semaglutide.html].

Two approvals in roughly a week

Health Canada authorized the first generic semaglutide injection, filed by Dr. Reddy's Laboratories, on April 28, 2026, making Canada the first G7 country to approve a generic version of semaglutide [Source: canada.ca/en/health-canada/news/2026/04/canada-becomes-the-first-g7-country-to-approve-a-generic-version-of-semaglutide.html]. On May 1, 2026, the department authorized a second generic semaglutide injection, this one filed by Canadian-based Apotex [Source: canada.ca/en/health-canada/news/2026/05/canada-approves-second-generic-semaglutide-the-first-g7-country-to-do-so.html].

Both products are described by Health Canada as generic versions of the brand-name drug Ozempic, indicated for the once-weekly treatment of adult patients with type 2 diabetes to manage blood sugar levels [Source: canada.ca/en/health-canada/news/2026/05/canada-approves-second-generic-semaglutide-the-first-g7-country-to-do-so.html]. Seven additional generic semaglutide submissions from different companies remain under review, with the department expecting further decisions in the coming weeks and months [Source: canada.ca/en/health-canada/news/2026/05/canada-approves-second-generic-semaglutide-the-first-g7-country-to-do-so.html].

How the benchmark compares with current Canadian prices

CBC News reported that a monthly supply of Ozempic or Wegovy costs between $300 and $400, sometimes more depending on the dose [Source: cbc.ca/news/health/ozempic-generic-health-canada-9.7180566]. Current pharmacy prices tracked on GLP1Prices.ca show Ozempic ranging from $222 to $663 CAD across 148 listings, and Wegovy ranging from $270 to $490 CAD across 172 listings, so the CBC figure sits within the lower portion of observed Canadian retail prices.

Mina Tadrous, an associate professor at the University of Toronto who researches drug policy, told CBC News that with three generics on the market, the price could drop to about $100 or less, depending on dose [Source: cbc.ca/news/health/ozempic-generic-health-canada-9.7180566]. Tadrous said that in order to see big cost savings, another two generic drugs need to be approved [Source: cbc.ca/news/health/ozempic-generic-health-canada-9.7180566].

What is and is not settled

Health Canada has not specified launch dates for the two authorized generics. CBC News reported that it is unclear when Dr. Reddy's generics will hit the market [Source: cbc.ca/news/health/ozempic-generic-health-canada-9.7180566].

Key points established in the official record so far:

• Two generic semaglutide injections have been authorized, referencing Ozempic [Source: canada.ca/en/health-canada/news/2026/05/canada-approves-second-generic-semaglutide-the-first-g7-country-to-do-so.html].
• Seven additional generic semaglutide submissions remain under review [Source: canada.ca/en/health-canada/news/2026/05/canada-approves-second-generic-semaglutide-the-first-g7-country-to-do-so.html].
• Canada is the first G7 country to approve a generic version of semaglutide [Source: canada.ca/en/health-canada/news/2026/04/canada-becomes-the-first-g7-country-to-approve-a-generic-version-of-semaglutide.html].
• Health Canada cites a 45 to 90 per cent generic-versus-brand cost range as typical for many medications [Source: cbc.ca/news/health/ozempic-generic-health-canada-9.7180566].

Decisions on whether private and public plans will adjust coverage following the approvals remain outside the regulator's scope. Readers can track listings on our generic semaglutide tracker, review plan questions through the insurance coverage checker, or consult the FAQ. Tirzepatide products including Mounjaro and Zepbound are not affected by these semaglutide-specific authorizations.

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice.