OTTAWA, May 1 (Xinhua) -- Health Canada on Friday authorized a second generic version of the popular diabetes drug semaglutide, further solidifying the country's position as the first G7 nation to approve alternatives to the brand-name drug Ozempic.

According to a news release from the federal health agency, the newly approved injection from Canadian-based pharmaceutical company Apotex is indicated for the once-weekly treatment of adult patients with type 2 diabetes to manage blood sugar levels.

The authorization followed a "thorough review" demonstrating the drug meets Health Canada's criteria for safety, efficacy and quality, said the release.

The move came just three days after Health Canada became the first regulator in a G7 country to approve a generic semaglutide filed by India's Dr. Reddy's Laboratories.

Health Canada said it is currently reviewing seven other submissions from different companies and expects to make more regulatory decisions "in the coming weeks and months."

The availability of generic drugs is expected to have a positive impact in Canada, including potential cost savings for patients and the healthcare system. In Canada, many generic medications are 45 to 90 percent cheaper than the brand-name versions, said the release. ■