India’s Anti-Obesity Drug Market: A Transformative Surge in Lifestyle Management
The anti-obesity drug market in India is experiencing unprecedented growth, having quadrupled in size over the past five years. Driven by an alarming rise in lifestyle diseases, this market has grown from Rs 133 crore in March 2023 to Rs 576 crore by March 2025. This substantial increase indicates not only a larger acceptance of weight-loss treatments but also an evolving awareness and willingness among consumers to invest in their health.
The Drivers Behind the Growth
The Role of Semaglutide
At the forefront of this explosive growth is the semaglutide pill, Rybelsus, produced by the Danish pharmaceutical powerhouse Novo Nordisk. Remarkably, Rybelsus accounts for a staggering 69% of the current market share, valued at Rs 397 crore—a jump from just Rs 11 crore in March 2022. Industry experts attribute this shift partly to the increasing recognition of semaglutide’s effectiveness in weight management.
New Contenders in the Market
The recent launch of Mounjaro (tirzepatide), a once-weekly injectable medication designed for chronic weight management and type 2 diabetes by Eli Lilly, is adding fresh momentum to the market. Priced at Rs 3,500 per injection, Mounjaro has garnered positive responses for its affordability and efficacy in promoting weight loss. This new contender is expected to invigorate the market even further.
Moreover, Novo Nordisk is preparing for the launch of its semaglutide injection, Wegovy, which promises additional cardiovascular benefits for Indian patients. This expansion of effective obesity treatments indicates a robust future for lifestyle management in India.
The Landscape of Lifestyle Diseases
The alarming fact is that nearly 100 million adults in India grapple with obesity, often entangled with serious comorbid conditions like type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and various cardiovascular ailments. The surge in lifestyle-related diseases has created an urgent call to action, leading consumers to seek effective solutions for weight loss and healthier living.
Insights from Industry Experts
"Rybelsus has significantly catalyzed market growth, and now Mounjaro is set to further accelerate this trend," says Sheetal Sapale, VP of Commercial at PharmaTrac. The combined impact of rising lifestyle diseases and the readiness of consumers to invest in anti-obesity treatments positions this segment for rapid progress.
Most of these innovative medications function by promoting satiety, thereby helping individuals feel fuller for longer. However, it’s essential to pair medication with lifestyle changes for sustainable, long-term weight management.
The Future of Anti-Obesity Treatments
While semaglutide (Rybelsus) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro) lead the pack in anti-obesity medications, several other noteworthy options exist, including orlistat, dulaglutide, and liraglutide. Each of these plays a role in the growing solution set available to those looking to manage their weight effectively.
Conclusion: Embracing a New Era
“In India, the anti-obesity drug market, though still emerging, is gaining momentum thanks to heightened awareness of health issues, evolving treatment protocols, and the introduction of innovative therapies,” explains Bhanu Prakash Kalmath SJ, partner and healthcare leader at Grant Thornton Bharat.
As global therapies like semaglutide and Mounjaro reshuffle the treatment landscape by providing benefits beyond weight loss—such as enhanced blood sugar control—India stands on the cusp of a transformative era in obesity management. The path forward isn’t just about shedding pounds; it’s about enhancing overall health and wellness, ensuring that everyone can lead a vibrant, healthy life.
For more insights into the burgeoning health landscapes, visit PharmaTrac and explore the latest developments in medication and lifestyle management.
