Mar 24, Kathmandu - India has issued a stern warning regarding the rampant spread of affordable generic versions of weight loss medications, which pose significant health risks due to misuse and lack of proper medical supervision. The Ministry of Health has emphasized the need for stricter monitoring and enforcement to prevent irregular drug use.

Following the expiration of the patent for active ingredients like semaglutide in March 2023, generic versions of drugs such as Ozempic and Wegovy have flooded the Indian market. As the world's largest supplier of generic medicines, India has significantly reduced prices, making these drugs more accessible.

These GLP-1 class medications are known to regulate blood sugar levels and suppress appetite, making them effective against obesity. However, the Ministry warns that unsupervised use without medical prescriptions could lead to serious side effects.

With multiple generic variants now available, the risk of unregulated sales through retail pharmacies, online platforms, wholesale distributors, and wellness clinics has increased. The Ministry clarified, “Using these drugs without proper medical oversight can cause severe health issues.”

In response, India’s drug regulatory authority has intensified inspections and banned misleading advertising and misuse-promoting activities by manufacturers.

Experts stress that weight loss medications are not a standalone solution. Simon Barker, President of the World Obesity Federation, emphasized that obesity is a complex, long-term disease that requires healthy lifestyle changes and preventive measures.

Over the past five years, India’s weight loss drug market has experienced rapid growth. By 2026, sales are projected to reach over $153 million, with estimates suggesting the market could surpass half a billion dollars by 2030.

According to WHO, India still accounts for one-third of the world's malnutrition, but rising incomes and urban lifestyles are accelerating obesity rates. Government data shows approximately 24% of women and 23% of men in India are overweight or obese.

Previously, monthly expenses for such medications ranged from 15,000 to 22,000 Indian Rupees, limiting their use. But after patent expiry, the price of semaglutide generics has dropped to between 1,300 and 4,200 Rupees, expanding access.

Despite more affordable prices, health authorities warn that unregulated consumption heightens health risks, underscoring the need for cautious and responsible use of these drugs.