Novo Nordisk, a Danish pharmaceutical company, has officially launched its blockbuster drug Ozempic in India. This move signifies a major development in the management of type 2 diabetes and obesity within the country, where there's a growing demand for advanced therapies.
Ozempic, a once-weekly injectable containing semaglutide, has gained global recognition for its effectiveness in managing blood sugar levels and aiding in weight loss. The drug was initially approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2017. In India, the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) approved Ozempic for use in adults with insufficiently controlled type 2 diabetes as an adjunct to diet and exercise.
With over 100 million people in India living with type 2 diabetes and another 254 million struggling with obesity, the launch of Ozempic addresses a significant healthcare need. These numbers have reportedly doubled in the past decade, highlighting the urgent requirement for effective treatments. Ozempic works by stimulating insulin production in the pancreas and reducing appetite, leading to improved glycemic control and potential weight loss.
Novo Nordisk will offer Ozempic in varying doses of 0.25 mg, 0.5 mg, and 1 mg to cater to individual patient needs. The lowest dose (0.25 mg) is priced at ₹2200 (approximately $24.35) per week. While the exact cost of the other doses hasn't been revealed, the price of Wegovy, another semaglutide-based drug from Novo Nordisk indicated for obesity treatment, is expected to range between ₹17,345 and ₹26,015 per month, depending on the dosage and pack size. Ozempic will be available only on a doctor's prescription.
The introduction of Ozempic complements Novo Nordisk's existing portfolio of diabetes and obesity treatments in India, including oral semaglutide and WeGovy. This provides the company with a comprehensive suite of semaglutide therapies, strengthening its position in the rapidly expanding market.
While Ozempic offers several benefits, including improved glycemic control, weight loss, and reduced cardiovascular risks in high-risk diabetes patients, it's crucial to be aware of potential side effects. Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, and other stomach problems. In some instances, more serious side effects such as pancreatitis, gallbladder complications, and kidney problems have been reported. Mental health side effects such as changes in mood and anxiety have also been observed.
The semaglutide patents are set to expire in 2026, which means that Indian drugmakers are preparing to launch generic versions of the drug. This increased competition is expected to drive down prices and improve access to this essential medication, potentially transforming the landscape of anti-diabetes and weight management drugs in India.
