Novo Nordisk Introduces Weekly 0.25 mg Weight-Loss Injection Starting at Rs 2,200

What is Ozempic?
Ozempic is a once-weekly GLP-1 RA (receptor agonist) indicated as an adjunct to diet and exercise for adults living with uncontrolled type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). It prompts the pancreas to produce more insulin when blood sugar levels are high and prevents the liver from creating and releasing too much sugar into the bloodstream.
It also regulates appetite and food intake by acting on areas of the brain that control hunger. Doctors explained that it supports weight loss in people with Type 2 diabetes and reduces risk of cardiovascular and kidney complications associated with diabetes.
What about prices?
The drug price is Rs 2,200 per week for the lowest dose at 0.25 mg in the country. The monthly cost would be Rs 8,800 per month. Meanwhile the 0.5 mg dose has been priced at Rs 10,170 for a month and the highest 1 mg dose will cost Rs 11,175 per month.
At present, the weekly pricing of Wegovy (0.25 mg dose) is Rs 2,712, while the 0.5 mg drug costs Rs 3,462 per week. The 1 mg dose of Wegovy is priced at Rs 3,462 per week while the 1.7 mg drug is priced at Rs 4,100 per week. Mounjaro (tirzepatide, a combination of GLP1-RA with GIP) 2.5 mg solution for injection that improves blood sugar control in adults with Type 2 diabetes when used in conjunction with a balanced diet and regular exercise is priced at Rs 13,500 for 2.5 mg dose per month.
What is the efficacy of Ozempic?
This is the most prescribed GLP-1, according to the panelists at the launch, who also explained that the once-weekly injectable formulation of semaglutide is approved in India for adults with Type 2 diabetes as the first line treatment, adjunct to diet and exercise. “While effectively reducing blood sugar, Ozempic is clinically proven to provide compelling weight-loss benefits in people with diabetes,” Dr Unnikrishnan said.
He also added in addition to powerful HbA1C control and weight benefits, additional benefits of Ozempic include cardiovascular and kidney protection in people with diabetes.
Why the need for caution?
Dr Joshi said that the reason why these GLP-1 agents need to be carefully administered – especially in Indians — is because we have the “thin-fat” phenotype. Which means we have visceral fat inside muscle, liver and epicardial tissue. “Hence these GLP-1 agents need to be administered under medical supervision,” he told The Indian Express.
He further explained that while oral tablets were traditionally preferred, injectables like semaglutide are gaining acceptance due to their effectiveness in controlling blood sugar and promoting weight loss. “Treatments should only be taken under medical supervision and strictly according to prescribed dosages, as microdosing is not recommended,” Dr Joshi said.
Emerging drug options
Dr Unnikrishnan said the entry of weight loss drugs augured well as differences in their action profile can help doctors approach the disease in a nuanced manner and customise therapies. “We can select individualised therapies based on patient profile,” he said.
However, as generic versions become available, there is a likelihood of a price benefit and better access to people with the disease, Dr Unnikrishnan said. “This will help the overall management of type 2 diabetes and obesity and help the medication reach every corner of the country. The size of the problem is so large that more options are better for people with type 2 diabetes and obesity,” Dr Unnikrishnan told The Indian Express.