Johannesburg, 21 July 2026 — Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Limited (Reuters: SUN.BO, Bloomberg: SUNP IN, NSE: SUNPHARMA, BSE: 524715) (together with its subsidiaries and/or associated companies, “Sun Pharma”) today announced the launch of generic semaglutide, a once‑weekly GLP‑1 receptor agonist, in South Africa for the treatment of adults with inadequately controlled type 2 diabetes mellitus as an adjunct to diet and exercise.
The product is supplied in a pre‑filled, multi‑dose injectable pen in two strengths (2 mg/1.5 mL and 4 mg/3 mL) that allow flexible, once‑weekly dosing. The device features a smooth dialer for accurate dose selection and a concealed needle to improve handling safety and reduce injection anxiety. The pens are manufactured in Europe and developed with established pharmaceutical device suppliers.
“Type 2 diabetes remains a major public‑health challenge in South Africa,” said Malcolm Brown, Chief Executive Officer, Sun Pharma South Africa. “The availability of generic semaglutide strengthens the range of evidence‑based treatment options available to clinicians and patients. Our objective is to support better clinical outcomes by improving access to proven therapies that can be integrated into comprehensive diabetes care.”
Clinical context and public‑health relevance
- Type 2 Diabetes remains one of South Africa’s most significant public health challenges. As per the International Diabetes Federation country report, it is estimated that 3.9 million patients aged 20-79 would be living with diabetes in South Africa by 2050.
- South Africa faces a growing burden of type 2 diabetes, driven in part by rapid urbanization and changing lifestyles. This rising prevalence places significant pressure on patients and healthcare services. Improving access to effective therapies is therefore an important component of addressing this national health challenge.
- With the launch of generic semaglutide in South Africa, Sun Pharma aims to provide clinicians and patients with an additional licensed option for comprehensive diabetes management, supporting better long‑term outcomes when used alongside diet and exercise.
Regulatory and medical review
Healthcare professionals are advised to consult full prescribing information and local treatment guidelines when considering semaglutide for individual patients. The company’s local medical team is available to assist clinicians with scientific inquiries and product information.
About Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Limited. (CIN – L24230GJ1993PLC019050)
Sun Pharma is a leading global pharmaceutical company with a presence in Innovative Medicines, Generics and Consumer Healthcare products. It is the largest pharmaceutical company in India and is a leading generic company in the US as well as Global Emerging Markets. Sun’s high growth Global Innovative Medicines portfolio spans innovative products in dermatology, ophthalmology, and onco-dermatology and accounts for about 22% of company sales. The company’s vertically integrated operations deliver high-quality medicines, trusted by physicians and consumers in over 100 countries. Its manufacturing facilities are spread across five continents. Sun Pharma is proud of its multi-cultural workforce drawn from over 50 nations. “For further information, please visit www.sunpharma.com and follow us on LinkedIn & X (Formerly Twitter).”
