MUMBAI, March 20 -- Natco Pharma has heralded what could become an intense pricing war in India's pharmaceutical sector by offering its version of generic semaglutide that's 90% cheaper than the original weight-loss drug.

The Hyderabad-based drugmaker has priced its semaglutide injection starting at Rs.1,290 per month in vial dosage form. The company will launch its semaglutide brands on Saturday, a day after innovator Novo Nordisk loses patent protection in India.

Eris Lifesciences, which has a partnership with Natco to sell generic semaglutide, said its brand Sundae will be priced at the same rate for the starting dose.

Sun Pharmaceutical Industries, Dr Reddy's Laboratories and Zydus Lifesciences are also expected to introduce their ...