Arrotex launches generic alternative to Novo Nordisk’s obesity treatment

Arrotex Pharmaceuticals has entered Australia’s booming obesity and over-weight management market with the launch of a generic version of Novo Nordisk’s Saxenda (liraglutide). The therapy, available in pharmacies nationwide from next week, comes bundled with a comprehensive patient support program, LiraCare, to drive adherence and long-term outcomes.

The move follows the Therapeutic Goods Administration’s (TGA) approval earlier this year of multiple generic versions of liraglutide, including brands by Cipla and Sun Pharma. Of Cipla’s two approved generics, one is marketed by Arrotex under the ARX-Liraglutide brand, while the other is marketed by Sandoz. Both are indicated as an adjunct to a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity for weight management.

Novo Nordisk, meanwhile, is preparing for Saxenda’s withdrawal from the Australian market in December. The company has been encouraging clinicians to transition patients to its next-generation GLP-1 receptor agonist, Wegovy (semaglutide).

With no obesity medicines currently reimbursed through the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS), long-term affordability remains a critical factor for patients a recent meta-analysis confirming that patients who stop taking GLP-1 receptor agonists experience a rapid and near-total return of lost weight within 1 – 2 years. On private prescription, Saxenda costs $379.99 per month, compared to $245 for ARX-Liraglutide and $369.99 for Wegovy 2.4mg.

Hayley Tamborini, Chief Commercial Officer of Arrotex Pharmaceuticals, said “We are proud to offer Australian doctors and their patients choice in weight management treatment. This choice represents Arrotex’s commitment to patient access, affordability, and continuity of care.”

To complement the therapy, Arrotex has rolled out LiraCare under its SupportEd patient support platform. The program offers practical resources to encourage treatment adherence, including complimentary needles, nurse phone support, email and SMS reminders, as well as a 90-day subscription to the 28 by Sam Wood wellbeing program.

Tamborini added, “The SupportEd LiraCare Patient Program reflects our focus on providing wrap-around support that helps patients stay engaged with their treatment and achieve meaningful improvements in their health outcomes and quality of life.”

Con Tangalakis, Executive Director of DBG Health, the parent company of Arrotex, commented “We are proud to launch an affordability-focused alternative at a time when patients need it most. Our new generic alternative will help ensure Australians can continue to access this important therapy and – through LiraCare – we are providing practical tools and holistic support, providing support that other companies can’t or won’t.”

More than eight million Australians live with obesity and a further seven million are classified as overweight.

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