Semaglutide Sales Hit $3.5 Billion in Canada During 2025

Market Size Reveals Scale of Generic Opportunity

The IQVIA Canada figures, reported by CBC News, encompass all semaglutide brands including Ozempic and Wegovy sold throughout 2025. This represents one of the first comprehensive market assessments of semaglutide sales in Canada as the patent protection ended on January 4, 2026.

With Health Canada currently reviewing nine generic semaglutide applications, this market data provides context for the potential impact of generic competition. Industry analysts suggest generic versions could capture significant market share given the current pricing structure.

Current Pricing Creates Generic Entry Point

The substantial sales figures reflect current market pricing, with semaglutide medications typically costing between $200 and $600 per month depending on the specific formulation and dosage strength. Generic manufacturers are targeting price reductions of up to 65% from current brand-name pricing.

Canadian-made generic versions are expected to launch between May and September 2026, with multiple manufacturers including Aspen Pharmacare and Vimy Pharma pursuing regulatory approval from Health Canada.

Generic Applications Under Review

Health Canada's public generic semaglutide tracker shows active review of applications from nine different manufacturers. The regulatory body has been reviewing some applications for nearly two years, with approvals expected throughout 2026.

Key manufacturers in the approval process include:

• Sandoz Canada
• Apotex Inc.
• Teva Canada
• Taro Pharmaceuticals
• Aspen Pharmacare
• Vimy Pharma

Impact on Canadian Healthcare Costs

The $3.5 billion market size represents a significant portion of Canadian pharmaceutical spending. Employee benefit plans and provincial drug coverage programs have reported substantial increases in costs related to semaglutide prescriptions over the past two years.

Generic competition could reduce overall healthcare system costs while maintaining access to semaglutide medications. Patients currently using brand-name versions may benefit from lower out-of-pocket expenses once generic alternatives become available.

Novo Nordisk Response to Generic Competition

In response to the impending generic competition, Novo Nordisk has announced plans to reduce prices for Ozempic and Wegovy by up to 50% in 2027. The company has also launched new brand variations including Plosbrio and Poviztra in the Canadian market.

The pharmaceutical giant expects generic competition to slow sales growth in Canada, acknowledging the market dynamics will shift significantly once generic versions receive Health Canada approval.

Coverage and Access Considerations

The substantial sales figures reflect both private insurance and out-of-pocket spending by Canadian patients. Many provincial drug plans have limited coverage for semaglutide medications, leading to higher patient costs.

Patients can check current coverage options through the insurance coverage checker and review common questions about generic availability in the FAQ section.