Weight-loss drug Ozempic launched in India, priced at Rs 8,800 a month
New Delhi, Dec 12
Novo Nordisk on Friday launched its blockbuster weight-loss drug Ozempic in India, beginning at Rs 8, 800 a month or four weeks.
Ozempic -- a once-weekly injectable formulation of semaglutide -- is approved in India for adults with uncontrolled type 2 diabetes, along with diet and exercise.
The drug is available in three dosage forms -- 0.25mg, 0.5 mg, and 1mg -- in a single-use pre-filled pen called Novofine Needles designed for painless subcutaneous injection, the drug maker said.
The 0.25 mg, which is the initial dose, is priced at Rs 8,800, followed by Rs 10,170 for 0.5 mg and Rs 11,175 for 1 mg. Each pen contains four weekly doses.
“Bringing Ozempic to India is a major milestone. Backed by global trust, proven clinical excellence, and world-class quality, reinforced by a robust supply chain, Ozempic offers Indian doctors an effective treatment choice,†said Vikrant Shrotriya, Managing Director, Novo Nordisk India.
“Our goal is to provide patients with an innovative and accessible therapy that offers improved glycaemic control, meaningful weight management, and long-term heart and kidney protection -- all delivered through a simple, easy-to-use pen device. This once-weekly treatment demonstrates Novo Nordisk’s ongoing commitment to better health outcomes and chronic disease care,†Shrotriya added.
Ozempic was approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2017 for type 2 diabetes. Since then, it has been widely used off-label for weight loss due to its appetite-suppressing effects. It also protects patients from the risk of cardiovascular events and kidney issues, Novo said.
The company noted that Ozempic is a GLP-1 receptor agonist that helps improve glycaemic control and reduce HbA1c (a measure of glucose control); regulate appetite and food intake by acting on areas of the brain that control hunger; support weight loss in people with type-2 diabetes; and reduce risks of cardiovascular and kidney complications associated with diabetes.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Finally! My mother has been struggling with type 2 diabetes and weight issues for years. The once-weekly injection is so much more convenient than daily medicines. Yes, it's expensive, but if it protects her heart and kidneys too, it might be worth discussing with our doctor. 🤞
Important to remember this is approved for diabetes, not just weight loss. The off-label use for weight loss is a global trend, but we must use medicines responsibly under strict medical supervision. Hope doctors here emphasize this.
The price point is shocking. In a country where so many struggle to afford basic healthcare, this feels like a drug only for the elite. Innovation should be accessible. Novo Nordisk should have a tiered pricing model for India.
Good step forward for diabetes care. The combined benefit for sugar control, weight, and heart protection in one injection is a big deal. Hope it gets included in some corporate health insurance plans at least.
While the drug is promising, let's not forget the power of our traditional Indian diets and lifestyle changes. No injection can replace eating right and staying active. This should be a last resort after proper diet and exercise, not the first option.
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.