Obesity drugs are shedding their niche label in India -

Pharma

Obesity drugs are shedding their niche label in India

Obesity medicines, which were considered to be an specialty product sold to metropolitan elites, are turning out to be the new mainstream in India, thanks to the introduction of blockbuster medicines, increasing lifestyle disorders, and soon to be available low-cost copies. The market has expanded close to ten-fold in five years, which is all set to accelerate.

Key Drivers and Market Dynamics

Increased Disease Prevalence: This is because India faces a major health issue with nearly 100 million people with diabetes and more cases of obesity.

Global Blockbusters Arrive: Eli Lilly launched its combination GIP/GLP1 therapy, Mounjaro (tirzepatide), in India in March 2025. It was one of the top-selling products in the market soon after
The company has introduced Wegovy in June 2025 for higher dosages related to semaglutide for weight loss purposes. Additionally, their diabetes medication Ozempic also known as semaglutide has also been introduced in December 2025.
Threat of Generic Competition: The patent for Semaglutide expires in March 2026, which would make it possible for Indian companies to start developing and marketing copies.
Over 20 Indian pharmaceutical companies, including Dr. Reddy’s Labs, Cipla Ltd., Sun Pharmaceuticals Ltd., Zydus Cadila Ltd., and Lupin Ltd., are queueing up to market generic versions of this drug, which could be available 60% cheaper than the prevailing price.
Biocon is targeting a launch of its generic formulation of Wegovy in the Indian market by the year 2027.
Raised Awareness: There is also an increased understanding of obesity being a chronic disease, rather than a failure of lifestyle, in line with what the World Health Organization (WHO) supports, where GLP-1 medications are included in essential drugs.