Surge in Demand for Weight-Loss Drugs in India Amid Safety Concerns
Weight-loss drug craze for Ozempic, Mounjaro surges in India amid safety concerns
The Economic TimesImage: The Economic Times
In India, the demand for weight-loss injectables like Mounjaro and Ozempic has surged, with consumers seeking quick fixes even for modest weight loss. Experts warn of safety risks and call for stricter regulations as many begin using these drugs without medical supervision.
- 01Demand for weight-loss drugs is rising across India, including small towns.
- 02Mounjaro recorded sales of ₹114 crore in March, making it India's top-selling drug.
- 03Experts express concern over individuals using GLP-1 drugs without medical supervision.
- 04Prices of weight-loss injectables have dropped significantly due to patent expirations.
- 05Regulatory measures are in place, but experts fear they may not be sufficient.
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The popularity of weight-loss drugs such as Mounjaro and Ozempic is soaring in India, with consumers increasingly seeking these injectables for modest weight loss goals. CK Kumaravel, co-founder of Naturals Salons, noted a rise in inquiries from both metropolitan areas and small towns, indicating a widespread desire for quick weight-loss solutions. Mounjaro, marketed by Eli Lilly, achieved sales of ₹114 crore in March, maintaining its status as the top-selling drug in the country. However, medical experts, including Ambrish Mithal from Max HealthCare, have raised alarms about individuals starting these GLP-1 drugs without proper medical guidance, often on the advice of beauticians or gym instructors. The regulatory landscape for these drugs has tightened, but experts argue that it may not be enough to prevent misuse. Following the expiration of Novo Nordisk's patent for semaglutide, prices for these injectables have plummeted to as low as ₹1,290-1,300 per month, down from ₹5,000-13,000. While the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) has issued advisories against direct promotion of these drugs, concerns remain about the effectiveness of these regulations amidst a burgeoning market of generics and unmonitored pharmacies.
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The surge in demand for weight-loss drugs may lead to increased health risks for consumers using them without medical guidance.
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