India's Obesity Drug Market Poised for Transformation Amid Pharma Innovation and Policy Reforms

MUMBAI, India - March 8, 2025 - PRLog -- India's anti-obesity drug market is undergoing rapid expansion, driven by the rising prevalence of obesity and related health risks, including diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. According to Makreo Research, the market has grown significantly, adding INR 324 crores in revenue between 2019 and 2024. This momentum is expected to continue, with the market projected to sustain a double-digit growth rate in the coming years.

A major catalyst for this growth is the introduction of semaglutide, launched by Novo Nordisk in 2022, which now holds a 66% market share in India's obesity drug segment. With increasing obesity rates and rising demand for pharmaceutical interventions, India's obesity drug market is set for significant transformation.

Global Obesity Crisis and Economic Implications
The global obesity epidemic is rising, with nearly half the population projected to be overweight or obese by 2030. OECD estimates suggest annual obesity-related healthcare costs of USD PPP 209 per capita (2020–2050), reaching USD PPP 425 billion across 52 countries. India faces a growing crisis, with one in four classified as overweight (NFHS 2022), further complicated by the "thin-fat" phenotype requiring specialized treatments.

Challenges Hindering Market Expansion

Despite strong growth, India's obesity drug market faces several challenges:

• Limited Awareness: Anti-obesity drugs remain largely confined to high-income groups, limiting accessibility.
• Regulatory Barriers: Lengthy approval processes delay the introduction of breakthrough treatments like tirzepatide.
• Social Stigma: Cultural perceptions around obesity prevent many from seeking pharmaceutical treatment.
• Affordability Concerns: High costs restrict the adoption of weight loss drugs among the broader population.
• Unregulated Market Presence: The availability of counterfeit medications raises safety concerns.
• Shortage of Specialized Care: Limited access to obesity management professionals hampers effective treatment.

Future Outlook: Pharma Innovation and Government Initiatives
Indian and global pharmaceutical companies are ramping up efforts to address obesity through innovative drug development:

• Sun Pharma is developing Utreglutide (GL0034), a GLP-1 agonist, set for launch within five years.
• Eli Lilly is in phase-three trials for orforglipron, an oral GLP-1 agonist.
• Govt Support: PLI schemes boost local drug production, with semaglutide generics expected post-2026 patent expiry.

Comprehensive Market Insights
Makreo Research has released a report titled "India Anti-Obesity Drug Market Size and Forecast to 2030 (https://www.makreo.com/report/india-anti-obesity-drug-mar...), ". The report analyzes India's market landscape, assessing economic, political, and technological impacts, historical trends, and global comparisons. It covers competitive dynamics, key players, drug availability, approvals, and upcoming launches while highlighting challenges and growth opportunities.

Related Reports:
India Anti-Obesity Drug Market Competitive Landscape - Edition 2024 (https://www.makreo.com/report/india-anti-obesity-drug-mar...)