Semaglutide, a medication increasingly prescribed in India, has made waves for its efficacy in managing type 2 diabetes and aiding weight loss. Available in both oral (Rybelsus) and injectable (Ozempic/Wegovy) forms, it has been embraced by many seeking relief from obesity and diabetes. While it has shown positive results in weight management and even cardiovascular and kidney benefits, its high cost and side effects remain significant barriers for broader use.
Semaglutide, a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist, mimics a hormone produced by the intestines after eating. This hormone helps regulate digestion, appetite, and insulin production, making semaglutide effective for controlling blood sugar levels and promoting weight loss. In injectable form, patients can experience a 10-15% reduction in body weight, according to Dr. V. Mohan, a leading expert in diabetes from Chennai.
Since its introduction in India, doctors have seen a surge in demand for semaglutide, with many patients seeking prescriptions after hearing about the drug’s success internationally. “The interest has definitely risen,” says Anoop Misra, chairman of Fortis CDOC Hospital in Delhi. However, he cautions that while many are drawn to the drug for its weight loss benefits, it is primarily prescribed for diabetes management, with weight loss being an added bonus.
Experts emphasize that semaglutide is not a quick fix for casual weight loss. It is best suited for those suffering from obesity, particularly those with diabetes and other related conditions such as hypertension or high cholesterol. “It is not for people just looking to shed a few kilos. It’s a treatment for those with significant weight management challenges,” explains Dr. Mahesh D. M., an endocrinologist based in Bengaluru.
Despite its potential, semaglutide is not suitable for everyone. Only patients with specific medical conditions, such as high cardiovascular risk, are eligible. “We generally use it for patients with diabetes who also face a high risk of heart disease,” says Dr. Akhil Krishnan, an endocrinologist in Thiruvananthapuram.
Patient experiences vary, with some praising its effectiveness in controlling diabetes and reducing weight, while others struggle with side effects. Common issues include nausea, bloating, and vomiting, though these typically subside over time. However, some patients experience more severe reactions, such as pancreatitis. “Side effects are a concern for a small percentage of patients, who may need to discontinue the medication,” says Dr. K.V.S. Hari Kumar, an endocrinologist in Hyderabad.
The cost of semaglutide is another significant hurdle. Rybelsus, the oral version, can cost around ₹10,000 per month, making it inaccessible to many, especially in a country where out-of-pocket health expenses are high. “It is a prescription drug, and its steep price limits its availability to a small segment of the population,” notes B. Thirunavukkarasu, a chemist association president in Bengaluru. A black market has also emerged, highlighting the dangers of self-medication without medical supervision.
Despite these challenges, semaglutide’s benefits are undeniable for those who can access it. “The weight loss is not the primary benefit; it is the significant reduction in insulin requirements and the improvement in blood sugar control,” explains Dr. Jothdev, a diabetes specialist based in southern India.
Looking ahead, semaglutide is also being researched for potential treatments for other conditions like heart failure, Alzheimer’s, and cancer, indicating its promise as a versatile therapeutic option. While injectable forms like Ozempic and Wegovy are still not available in India, Indian pharmaceutical companies are now exploring their own weight-loss drugs, signaling a potential shift in availability in the coming years.
For now, semaglutide remains a transformative, albeit costly, option for managing diabetes and obesity in India, offering significant benefits for eligible patients despite its challenges.
Related topics:
World War II Sugar Rationing Reduced Later Risks of Diabetes, Hypertension
Urgent Need for Research on Exercise’s Role in Managing Type 2 Diabetes in Indigenous Australians
Genetic and Environmental Factors Impact Early Type 1 Diabetes Risk in Children, TEDDY Study Reveals
