According to the NHFS-5 (National Family Health Survey), 1 in 4 adults in India are classified as overweight or obese [1]. With the increasing prevalence and the broader global burden of obesity, researchers and medical experts have been trying to gain a deeper understanding of the science of weight gain and introducing new evidence-driven interventions for effective weight management.
In India, one such development is the recent launch of the anti-obesity drug Wegovy by Novo Nordisk. It contains semaglutide, a GLP-1 receptor agonist that has long been used to treat type 2 diabetes and has shown benefits for weight management in numerous studies. This once-weekly injectable weight loss treatment exclusively for chronic weight management is available in five strengths: 0.25 mg, 0.5 mg, 1 mg, 1.7 mg, and 2.4 mg.
What is Semaglutide?
Semaglutide is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist, a class of drugs originally developed to help manage blood sugar in adults with type 2 diabetes.
It works by mimicking GLP-1, a natural hormone that:
- Stimulates insulin secretion
- Reduces glucose output from the liver
- Slows gastric emptying (the rate at which food leaves the stomach)
Studies have shown that, beyond diabetes control, semaglutide impacts body weight by:
- Regulating appetite
- Promoting satiety (feeling of fullness)
- Lowering overall calorie intake
Supported by multiple STEP trials conducted for various cohorts, Wegovy has shown promising results, indicating that low-dose semaglutide (2.4 mg dose) can support long-term weight management, particularly in individuals with weight-related health risks, for whom it is clinically approved[2].
How Does Wegovy Work?
Delivered through a pre-filled pen, this weight loss treatment protocol follows a four-week titration cycle:
-Start with 0.25 mg/week for 4 weeks
-Increase to 0.5 mg/week for the next 4 weeks-Move to 1 mg/week for the subsequent 4 weeks, and
-Increase to 1.7 mg or 2.4 mg/week, with regular clinical monitoring
This gradual increase helps minimize common side effects like nausea or digestive discomfort while allowing the body to adjust.
Who Can Benefit From the Medical Management of Obesity?
This weight loss treatment is approved for:
-Adults with a BMI ≥ 30 kg/m² (obese)
-Adults with BMI ≥ 27 kg/m² (overweight) with at least one weight-related condition (e.g., type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, or heart disease)
It is not a cosmetic solution, but a medically supported intervention for those at risk due to excess weight. Your doctor is your guide here. Connect with your doctor, assess your risk, and explore what the missing link is in your weight loss journey.
Struggling to manage weight despite your best efforts? Obesity is a medical condition, not just about willpower. Sometimes, your body needs more support, and that’s where doctor-recommended weight management guidance can help.
Connect with an Obesity Counselor
Pricing in India
-0.25 mg to 1 mg doses: ₹17,345/month
-1.75 mg dose: ₹24,280/month
-2.4 mg dose: ₹26,050/month
This translates to roughly ₹4,366 per injection for the highest dose.
How is Obesity Affecting Health in India?
Obesity is a chronic disease and not just a cosmetic concern. It is defined as a complex, metabolic disease characterized by an excessive or abnormal fat accumulation that can impair health. The most common way to assess it is through the Body Mass Index (BMI): a BMI of 25 or higher is classified as overweight, while a BMI of 30 or higher indicates obesity [3].
Once seen as a concern of the West, excess weight now affects millions of Indians, increasing the risk of type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and certain cancers [3].
Conclusion: A Promising Step Forward
Obesity is now recognised as a chronic metabolic condition and not merely a matter of weight. The launch of semaglutide for obesity in India indicates an increasing emphasis on focused interventions to support individuals who have struggled with weight loss through traditional means.
However, it is important to view this drug as part of a comprehensive approach, including dietary changes, physical activity, and regular medical supervision. As with all medications, speak to your healthcare provider to understand if this therapy is right for you.
Have questions about managing weight with medical support? Our expert can help guide you on your journey with semaglutide.
FAQs
1. Is obesity really a disease, or just a lifestyle issue?
Obesity is a chronic, progressive disease, not a personal failure. It involves complex interactions between genetics, hormones, metabolism, and environment, not just food or exercise.
2. Can obesity be treated medically?
Yes. For the first time, a science-backed anti-obesity drug is now available in India. These go beyond diet and exercise, helping the body regulate appetite, satiety, and weight sustainably.
3. Who qualifies for weight loss drug treatment?
It may be prescribed for adults with a BMI ≥30 or those with a BMI ≥27 and related health risks like diabetes or heart disease. A doctor can help assess if it’s right for you.
4. Is this a “quick fix” for weight loss?
No, it’s a long-term medical approach to managing obesity and reducing health risks. It works best when combined with lifestyle changes, under medical supervision.
5. What are the risk factors of obesity?
Obesity is influenced by a combination of lifestyle, biological, and environmental factors. It can result from an unhealthy diet, lack of physical activity, genetics, hormonal conditions like PCOS or hypothyroidism, poor sleep, or high stress.
Disclaimer: This article is curated in partnership with Novo Nordisk. The information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Weight loss medications use should be individualized and should be taken under the guidance of a doctor. Please note that Tata 1mg does not endorse any brands and is not responsible for their efficacy.
(The article is written by Dr.Subita Alagh, Senior Executive, and reviewed by Dr. Swati Mishra, Medical Editor)
References
1. Kahan S. Anti-obesity medications: Evidence and implications for obesity treatment. J Obes Chronic Dis. 2023;7(1):12-20. Available from: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10645500/
2. Moiz A, Levett JY, Filion KB, et al. Long-term efficacy and safety of once-weekly semaglutide for weight loss in patients without diabetes: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Am J Cardiol. 2024;222:121-130. doi:10.1016. Available from: https://www.ajconline.org/article/S0002-9149(24)00319-9/fulltext
3. World Health Organization. Obesity and overweight. Fact sheet. 2024. Available from: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/obesity-and-overweight