Danish pharmaceutical giant Novo Nordisk on Tuesday finally launched its blockbuster weight-loss injectable medication Wegovy in India.
Wegovy, a once-weekly glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist, has been approved for both long-term chronic obesity treatment and reducing the risk of major cardiovascular events. It uses the active substance semaglutide, which mimics GLP-1 and targets areas of the brain involved in appetite regulation—helping reduce hunger, increase feelings of fullness, and ultimately support sustained weight loss.
Novo Nordisk says the prescription-only drug could significantly improve the quality of life for millions of Indians struggling with obesity or being overweight.
According to NDTV Profit, Wegovy will be available in five dosing strengths—0.25 mg, 0.5 mg, 1 mg, 1.7 mg, and 2.4 mg—delivered via an easy-to-use, innovative pen device. Prices start at ₹17,345 per pen for the 0.25 mg, 0.5 mg, and 1 mg doses, rising to ₹24,280 for 1.7 mg and ₹26,015 for the 2.4 mg maintenance dose.
In comparison, rival Eli Lilly’s Mounjaro is priced significantly lower, with 2.5 mg and 5 mg injections costing ₹3,500 and ₹4,375, respectively. Patients typically begin with a lower weekly dose that is gradually increased over time. Mounjaro, which uses the active substance tirzepatide, was launched in India on March 20 following approval from the CDSCO.
It works by activating both GIP and GLP-1 receptors, helping lower blood sugar and support weight loss. The drug boosts insulin production, improves insulin sensitivity, suppresses appetite, slows digestion, and reduces post-meal glucagon levels. This dual-action mechanism makes it effective for treating both type 2 diabetes and chronic obesity.
Obesity rates in India are rising, with the obese/overweight adult population projected to grow from 180 million in 2025 to 450 million by 2050, according to a report by Nuvama Institutional Equities. Obesity rates among Indian women rose from 1.2% in 1990 to 9.8% in 2022, and among men from 0.5% to 5.4%. The overall weight management industry in India is currently worth about $25 billion and is expected to more than double to $56 billion by 2033.
"This, coupled with growing awareness and availability of cheaper alternatives from 2026 onwards, implies the Indian market can also become a sizeable opportunity for domestic companies, organically or via in-licensing deals," the brokerage firm said.
Earlier, The Economic Times reported that Novo Nordisk is aiming to hit $1 billion in sales in India within five to seven years. To achieve this, the company plans to build on a comprehensive "go-to-market strategy with industry insiders."
