Health authorities in India have issued a strong warning over the potential misuse of newly available low-cost weight-loss drugs, following the arrival of generic versions that are rapidly transforming access to obesity treatment.
The concern comes after the patent for semaglutide—the key ingredient in popular drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy—expired earlier this month. This has opened the door for multiple pharmaceutical companies to produce cheaper alternatives, significantly reducing monthly treatment costs.
While the introduction of these generic drugs is expected to expand access and play a major role in tackling obesity, the Ministry of Health has cautioned that their growing availability without proper medical oversight poses serious health risks. Officials noted that the drugs are increasingly being sold through retail pharmacies, online platforms, and wellness clinics, raising fears of unsupervised and inappropriate use.
“These medications must only be used under a doctor’s prescription,” the ministry emphasized, warning that misuse could lead to harmful side effects and other complications.
To address the issue, regulators—including the national drug authority—have intensified inspections across the pharmaceutical supply chain. Authorities have also banned misleading promotions that could encourage off-label or casual use of the drugs.
Experts have echoed these concerns. Simon Barquera of the World Obesity Federation stressed that medication alone is not a complete solution. He highlighted that obesity is a complex, chronic condition that requires broader lifestyle changes and preventive strategies.
The surge in availability comes amid a shifting health landscape in India. Although the country still faces significant undernutrition challenges—highlighted by the World Health Organization—rising incomes and urban lifestyles have contributed to a steady increase in obesity rates. Recent data shows nearly a quarter of adults are now overweight or obese.
The cost drop has been dramatic. Previously priced at up to 22,000 rupees per month, generic versions now range between 1,300 and 4,200 rupees, making them far more accessible to the public. As a result, the market for weight-loss drugs is expanding rapidly and is projected to grow significantly in the coming years.
Despite this progress, authorities insist that affordability must not come at the expense of safety, urging strict adherence to medical guidance as the country navigates this new phase in obesity treatment.
