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A new survey has revealed that while awareness of weight loss drugs is rapidly increasing in India, the majority of Indians remain cautious about using these medications, instead favoring lifestyle-based approaches to manage their weight.
The survey, conducted by Morning Consult on behalf of the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine, polled over 1,000 individuals across the country. It found that 87% of respondents believe it is important to learn about non-drug-supported weight loss methods, citing concerns over the safety and long-term use of pharmaceutical options. Although 82% of those surveyed had heard of weight loss drugs, only 18% could accurately explain how these medications work, and 65% felt that their benefits are often exaggerated.
Medical experts commenting on the findings emphasized the public’s apprehension regarding potential side effects and the overall safety of these drugs. Dr. Vanita Rahman, an internal medicine physician with the Physicians Committee, noted that many people are actively seeking alternatives beyond medication. She advocated for lifestyle changes such as adopting a plant-based, low-fat diet, which she described as a sustainable and safer strategy for long-term weight control. “A plant-based diet—low in fat and rich in fiber—can support long-term weight control without the risks associated with drug therapies. It’s a sustainable strategy that equips patients with safer, evidence-based options for weight control,” Dr. Rahman said.
Dr. Zeeshan Ali, a nutrition researcher with the committee, added that a plant-based diet can also reduce the risk of obesity among adults who are genetically predisposed to the condition and help individuals achieve a healthier Body Mass Index (BMI).
The survey also highlighted that overweight and obesity in India often affect entire families, not just individuals, suggesting that interventions should focus on the household level rather than solely on individuals.
The findings come at a time when the Indian anti-obesity drug market is experiencing significant growth, following the recent launches of high-profile medications such as Eli Lilly’s Mounjaro (tirzepatide) and Novo Nordisk’s Wegovy (semaglutide). According to PharmaTrack data, Eli Lilly sold approximately 88,000 units of Mounjaro by June 2025, while Novo Nordisk sold nearly 17,000 units of Wegovy since its launch in June. Currently, semaglutide holds 66% of the ₹628 crore anti-obesity drug market in India, with a moving annual turnover of ₹412 crore, while tirzepatide holds 8% with ₹50 crore.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Individuals should consult a qualified healthcare professional before making decisions about weight loss treatments or lifestyle changes.
