The explosive popularity (and subsequent shortages) of GLP-1 medications like Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, and Zepbound, make them in demand all the time. For some, the cost is far out of reach and insurance companies aren't tripping over themselves to cover the meds.
Trends show 30 million people will be trying GLP-1s by 2030—up to 10% of the population. Since we know the science, why can't we get generic GLP-1s? It all comes down to the patent and proprietary information of the innovative company that got there first.
When will generic GLP-1s be available? The short answer: not soon enough—and if we're being really honest, for some, not any time soon.
Here’s a breakdown of what’s happening, why, and what to expect in the coming years.
What Is a Patent, and Why Does It Matter?
In the pharmaceutical world, a patent gives a company the exclusive right to make and sell a drug for a set period—usually 20 years from the date of filing.
However, because drug makers often file patents early in the development process, the clock starts ticking long before a drug hits the market. Some companies also file additional patents for things like delivery methods or dosing schedules to extend exclusivity even further.
The idea behind a patent is to reward innovation—in this case, giving a pharmaceutical company exclusive rights to sell a new drug for a limited time (usually 20 years from the filing date). That exclusivity helps the company recover the massive costs of research, development, and clinical trials.
But after that period, the patent expires to allow competition and access. This opens the door for generic or biosimilar versions, which bring prices down and make the treatment more widely available.
It’s a balancing act: protect innovation but don’t let one company control the market forever.
GLP-1 Patent Timelines: When Will Generics Be Available?
Here’s what we know about when generics might hit the market for the most in-demand GLP-1 drugs:
Ozempic / Wegovy (semaglutide)
Patents begin expiring in March 2026, but Novo Nordisk holds secondary patents that could extend exclusivity into 2033.
Some international companies, like Brazil’s Hypera, are preparing to launch generics by 2026—but U.S. availability will depend on FDA approvals and patent challenges.
We also know that the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is cracking down on those who try to wrongfully extend patents. Specifically, Novo Nordisk was targeted in late 2024 for "improperly or inaccurately listed" patents in the Orange Book (FDA’s official list of approved drugs and their patent and exclusivity information).
“By filing bogus patent listings, pharma companies block competition and inflate the cost of prescription drugs, forcing Americans to pay sky-high prices for medicines they rely on,” - FTC Chair Lina Khan
Mounjaro / Zepbound (tirzepatide)
Tirzepatide is newer, so the patents are protected into the late 2030s or 2040s, depending on how many extensions or additional patents Eli Lilly has secured.
There’s high interest in developing biosimilars, but due to tirzepatide’s complexity, a generic version is not expected anytime soon.
Victoza / Saxenda (liraglutide)
This is the only GLP-1 drug with a generic currently approved.
The FDA approved the first generic of liraglutide (Victoza) in December 2024.
Saxenda (for weight loss) will likely follow, as it uses the same active ingredient.
"The FDA supports development of complex generic drugs, such as GLP-1s, by funding research and informing industry through guidance as part of our ongoing efforts to increase access to needed medications. Generic drugs provide additional treatment options which are generally more affordable for patients." - Iilun Murphy, M.D., FDA Center for Drug Evaluation and Research
What If You Can't Afford GLP-1 Medications Now?
While I don't have a crystal ball to see the future, I do see hope on the horizon.
Eli Lilly is developing an oral version of tirzepatide, which could lower costs and expand access. Late-stage trials of orforglipron should be released in 2025.
Mark Cuban's Cost Plus Drugs offers the generic version of Vitoza for about 37% lower than the retail price.
At reduced prices and based on demand, more insurance companies are beginning to cover them. If your medication isn’t covered, ask your doctor to help you file a formulary exception. It’s a formal request to your insurance company explaining why you need that specific drug.
Also, it's worth factoring in how much you might already be saving—on food, medical costs, and long-term health issues. That perspective can help shift the math. Some studies show that food costs go down up to 11% for those taking GLP-1s.
It’s not affordable for everyone yet, but access is improving, and options are growing.
How to Get Help with GLP-1 Coaching
Due to the importance of protein, additional supplements, and lifestyle changes, Legg Day Fitness is now offering GLP-1 nutrition coaching. You'll get a team of experts working for your personalized nutrition program, an investigator giving real answers to tough questions, and a support system with check-ins up to daily if you'd like. Reach out for a no-obligation conversation with Ashley Legg to get started.
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