Danish pharmaceutical major Novo Nordisk is preparing to launch Ozempic (semaglutide) in India, expanding its footprint in the country’s fast-growing diabetes and obesity treatment market. Originally approved in 2017 for type-2 diabetes, Ozempic has gained global attention for its effectiveness in weight management.
The launch follows the introduction of Wegovy-Novo’s obesity-focused version of semaglutide in India earlier this year. Ozempic will join the company’s existing GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) drug portfolio, which includes Rybelsus, an oral semaglutide tablet.
Globally, Ozempic generated over $17 billion in sales last year. Its arrival in India comes amid growing competition, especially from Eli Lilly’s Mounjaro, which entered the market in March. According to PharmaTrac, Mounjaro reported ₹154 crore in sales within five months, while Wegovy reached ₹19 crore in just three months.
A Novo Nordisk spokesperson said the company sees India as a key strategic market and is committed to expanding access to innovative treatments for chronic diseases. Pricing for Ozempic in India has yet to be announced.
Notably, semaglutide’s Indian patent is set to expire in March 2026, potentially opening the door for generic competitors from companies such as Sun Pharma, Cipla, Biocon, Dr. Reddy’s, and Zydus Lifesciences.
India has an estimated 101 million people with type‑2 diabetes and 254 million affected by obesity, making it one of the world’s largest markets for metabolic therapies. Experts note that beyond weight loss, Ozempic may also reduce the risk of cardiovascular events and kidney disease, positioning it as a holistic treatment option.
