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India’s anti-obesity drug market has witnessed remarkable growth, soaring from ₹133 crore in March 2021 to ₹576 crore by March 2025—a nearly fourfold increase. This surge highlights the growing prevalence of lifestyle-related diseases and an increasing willingness among Indian consumers to invest in weight management solutions.
Key Drivers of Growth
The market’s expansion has been largely driven by innovative pharmaceutical products, particularly semaglutide-based drugs. Novo Nordisk’s semaglutide pill, Rybelsus, has emerged as a standout performer, accounting for 69% of the market share with sales worth ₹397 crore as of March 2025. This is a significant leap from ₹11 crore in March 2022. Semaglutide works by regulating appetite and promoting a sense of satiety, making it a popular choice for weight management.
In addition to Rybelsus, Eli Lilly’s injectable drug Mounjaro (tirzepatide) has gained traction since its recent launch. Priced at ₹3,500 per injection, Mounjaro offers a cost-effective option for chronic weight management and type 2 diabetes treatment. The drug claims up to 20% efficacy in reducing weight and is expected to further accelerate market growth.
Novo Nordisk is also preparing to launch Wegovy, a semaglutide injection that has demonstrated cardiovascular benefits for Indian patients. Such advancements are reshaping the treatment landscape for obesity and related health conditions.
A Growing Health Concern
India is home to nearly 100 million adults affected by obesity, a condition increasingly linked to comorbidities such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular ailments. Experts attribute the rise in obesity rates to lifestyle changes and urbanization, which have led to unhealthy dietary habits and reduced physical activity.
Bhanu Prakash Kalmath SJ, healthcare industry leader at Grant Thornton Bharat, emphasized the transformative impact of new-generation therapies like semaglutide and tirzepatide. “Globally, these drugs have changed the treatment landscape by offering benefits beyond just weight loss—including improved blood sugar control. Their arrival in the Indian market signals a new phase in how obesity is managed clinically,” he stated.
Market Outlook
The anti-obesity drug market remains an emerging but fast-paced segment in India. Sheetal Sapale, VP of PharmaTrac, noted that heightened disease awareness, evolving treatment protocols, and new product launches are fueling this growth. However, experts caution that medication alone is insufficient; lifestyle changes must accompany drug therapy for sustained results.
Other molecules contributing to the market include orlistat (₹72 crore), dulaglutide (₹72 crore), and liraglutide (₹34 crore). These drugs complement the broader range of options available for addressing obesity-related health challenges.
Disclaimer
This article is based on publicly available information and expert opinions sourced from Economic Times coverage of India’s anti-obesity drug market. Readers are advised to consult healthcare professionals before considering any medication or treatment for obesity or related conditions.
Citations:
[1] https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/industry/healthcare/biotech/pharmaceuticals/indias-anti-obesity-drug-market-quadruples-in-five-years-on-lifestyle-disease-surge/articleshow/120
