Weight-loss drugs to get cheaper in India from March 21

The patent for Semaglutide, the active ingredient in blockbuster weight-loss drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy, expired on March 20, triggering a dramatic price crash in India. From March 21, weight loss injections that currently cost Rs 9,000 to Rs 28,000 per month will drop to just Rs 3,000-4,000 per month, a reduction of 70 per cent. 

Following the patent expiry, 54 branded generic versions are set to flood the market immediately, with major Indian pharma companies planning day-one launches. Semaglutide works by



mimicking natural hormones to reduce hunger, slow stomach emptying, and improve blood sugar control. 

However, experts stress these are powerful metabolic medicines meant only for clinically obese patients, not beauty treatments. Only endocrinologists or internal medicine specialists should prescribe them after comprehensive tests. The patent expiry applies only to Semaglutide; Tirzepatide, found in drugs like Mounjaro and Zydus's product, remains under patent protection and will not see price reductions.