India’s Weight-Loss Revolution: Ozempic Generics By 2026, Obesity Drug Prices May Drop 90%

India stands on the brink of a weight-loss revolution as semaglutide, the key ingredient in blockbuster drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy, goes off-patent in 2026 across over 80 countries, including India. With prices expected to plummet from Rs 20,000–30,000 to Rs 2,500–4,000 per month, affordable generics will democratize obesity care, making it accessible to millions. With 33% of Indian adults battling obesity, this could transform public health, reducing the burden of over 200 related conditions like diabetes and heart disease. But is India ready? Dr. Ambrish Mithal, a leading endocrinologist, and Dr. Shashank Joshi, a pioneer in obesity care, highlight the promise and pitfalls. While generics could improve lives, they warn of potential misuse, especially for cosmetic purposes, urging strict regulation like Portugal’s specialist-only prescribing model. Indian pharma giants like Dr. Reddy’s, Cipla, and Biocon are racing to launch oral semaglutide, intensifying competition with Chinese manufacturers. This price drop could reshape healthcare, with insurers covering therapies, hospitals launching obesity programs, and startups offering subscription-based wellness models. However, without robust education, regulation, and ethical oversight, India risks overuse, side effects, and a social media-driven obsession, as seen in the West. Join us to explore how 2026 could redefine India’s health landscape—and the challenges we must tackle for a sustainable transformation.