Glenmark Pharmaceuticals expands cardiometabolic portfolio with new Empagliflozin drug launch

Glenmark Pharmaceuticals Ltd. has introduced Empagliflozin, a widely recognized SGLT2 inhibitor, in India under the brand name Glempa. Along with this, the company has launched two fixed-dose combinations—Glempa-L, which combines Empagliflozin with Linagliptin, and Glempa-M, which pairs Empagliflozin with Metformin. This expansion strengthens Glenmark’s presence in the cardiometabolic segment by providing accessible and effective solutions for managing type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and associated cardiovascular conditions.

Empagliflozin: A Game-Changer in Diabetes and Cardiovascular Care

Empagliflozin has gained global recognition for its effectiveness in both glycemic control and cardiovascular risk reduction. Clinical trials, including the EMPA-REG study, have demonstrated that the drug reduces major cardiovascular events by 14%, making it a significant advancement for patients at risk of heart failure. In addition to improving blood sugar levels, Empagliflozin has shown benefits in weight loss and renal protection, making it a comprehensive treatment option for individuals with T2DM.

Glenmark’s Multi-Option Approach to Diabetes Management

Glenmark’s newly launched Glempa range provides multiple treatment options tailored to varying patient needs. Glempa, available in 10mg and 25mg doses, serves as a standalone SGLT2 inhibitor designed to improve glycemic control while reducing cardiovascular complications. Glempa-L, which combines Empagliflozin with Linagliptin, offers a dual-action therapy by integrating an SGLT2 inhibitor with a DPP4 inhibitor for enhanced diabetes and cardiovascular management. Meanwhile, Glempa-M, formulated with Empagliflozin and Metformin, combines the benefits of SGLT2 inhibition with Metformin’s established efficacy in blood sugar reduction, making it a strong option for patients requiring more intensive glycemic control.

Clinical Evidence Supporting Empagliflozin’s Benefits

Studies have reinforced the effectiveness of Empagliflozin and its combinations in improving patient outcomes. A 24-week clinical trial found that a twice-daily regimen of Empagliflozin and Metformin significantly lowered HbA1c levels by up to 2.1%, reduced fasting blood sugar by as much as 50.4 mg/dL, and resulted in weight loss of approximately 3.8 kg. Another study evaluating the combination of Empagliflozin and Linagliptin found that it reduced HbA1c by 1.24%, led to weight loss of up to 2.7 kg, and significantly lowered fasting blood sugar levels. These findings confirm that Empagliflozin, whether administered alone or in combination, provides superior glycemic control and cardiovascular benefits compared to existing therapies.

The Rising Prevalence of Diabetes and Cardiovascular Disease in India

India has one of the highest diabetes burdens globally, with the ICMR-INDIAB study estimating that 11.4% of the population is affected. In addition, the incidence of heart failure linked to conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and obesity is estimated to range between 491,600 and 1.8 million cases annually. Given the growing demand for advanced diabetes treatments, market data indicates that the Empagliflozin segment in India is valued at ₹642 crore, while the broader SGLT2 inhibitor market stands at ₹2,904 crore. Glenmark’s expansion into this segment strengthens its position in one of India’s fastest-growing pharmaceutical markets.

Glenmark’s Expanding Cardiometabolic Portfolio

Glenmark has a strong legacy of launching innovative cardiovascular and diabetes treatments in India. The company was the first to introduce Telmisartan in 2004 under the brand name Telma, which has since become one of the leading cardiology brands in the country. In 2005, it pioneered the launch of Eplerenone for heart failure management, followed by Teneligliptin, a DPP4 inhibitor, in 2015, which disrupted India’s diabetes market. In 2019, Glenmark introduced Remogliflozin, an SGLT2 inhibitor, and later launched Lirafit in 2024, the first biosimilar GLP-1 receptor agonist in India. With the addition of the Glempa range, Glenmark continues to strengthen its leadership in the cardiometabolic care segment by delivering cutting-edge therapies tailored to the evolving needs of Indian patients.

Investor Sentiment and Market Impact

Glenmark Pharmaceuticals, listed on the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE: 532296) and the National Stock Exchange (NSE: GLENMARK), is expected to benefit from the expansion of its diabetes portfolio. The growing demand for SGLT2 inhibitors and combination therapies presents a significant opportunity for revenue growth. While Glenmark’s stock performance has remained stable in recent months, its entry into the Empagliflozin market could attract strong investor interest, given the increasing prevalence of diabetes and cardiovascular disease in India.

The launch of Empagliflozin and its fixed-dose combinations marks a crucial milestone for Glenmark Pharmaceuticals. By providing affordable and effective treatment options, the company is set to improve patient outcomes while reinforcing its market position in the rapidly growing diabetes care segment. As the burden of diabetes continues to rise, Glenmark’s latest offerings could play a pivotal role in reshaping the landscape of diabetes and cardiovascular management in India.