Mumbai: The widely popular weight loss drug, Ozempic, has been approved by the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) for use in India. Developed by Danish drugmaker Novo Nordisk, Ozempic has become highly popular due to its ‘magical’ weight loss benefits, though this isn’t its primary intention.
What is Ozempic? Why is it so popular?
Ozempic is the brand name for Semaglutide, a medication that helps Type 2 diabetes patients manage their blood sugar levels. It acts like a natural hormone to regulate insulin, reduce unnecessary sugar spikes and slow down digestion.
First approved by the USFDA in 2017, Ozempic is also quite effective in weight loss, as it can suppress appetite, helping obese patients achieve their weight loss plans.
The drug became widely popular after celebrities like Elon Musk and Oprah Winfrey admitting to using it to control their weight.
Fasting + Ozempic/Wegovy + no tasty food near me
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) November 16, 2022
Due to this, sales of the drug exploded, with Novo Nordisk unprepared to ramp up production. Many started to take the drug themselves, despite healthcare professionals advising against it.
How will it help Indians?
Ozempic is expected to help the more than 100 million Indians suffering from Type 2 diabetes, who are finding it extremely difficult to control their blood sugar levels.
The drug could also help simplify treatment and help them lose weight. For those with cardiovascular diseases, this drug could help them reduce the likelihood of heart complications.
Currently, Wegovy, the higher dosagee variant of Ozempic, is available in India, with prices ranging between Rs.17,000-26,000 for five doses per month.
The pricing for Ozempic hasn’t been revealed yet, and it is expected to be on similar lines.
Sedentary lifestyles, greater access to junk food and a general lack of priority to keeping a healthy lifestyle have increased the prevalence of lifestyle diseases in India. India is now a rapidly growing market for anti-obesity drugs, with the segment valued at Rs.628 crore in June 2025.
Though Reddit users says Semaglutide-based medications have been available in India, the entry of Ozempic is likely to put the spotlight on the instant weight-loss sector, where many are now opting for bariatric surgeries to address their obesity.
Looking for Ozempic experiences before I finalise my decision
byu/_Galvin_ inkolkata
A move too late?
For Novo Nordisk, launching Ozempic in India is a no-brainer, even as the company is now bracing for competition from generic players, as its patent is all set to expire in India in 2026. Despite high costs, the drug is all set to have strong demand, especially in urban India, where lifestyle-related health challenges remain a constant challenge.
