Ozempic Launch in India: What to Know About its Benefits and Risks

The Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) in India has approved the use of Ozempic (semaglutide) for adults with type-2 diabetes. This approval marks a significant step in addressing the rising number of diabetes cases in the country. Danish pharmaceutical company Novo Nordisk plans to launch Ozempic soon, but it will only be available through a doctor’s prescription.

On September 26, 2023, the CDSCO confirmed the approval, stating that Ozempic is indicated for adults whose diabetes is insufficiently controlled through diet and exercise. Initially approved in the United States in 2017, Ozempic has gained popularity, particularly as a weight loss treatment, among various demographics, including celebrities. The exact price for Ozempic in India has not yet been disclosed by Novo Nordisk, which recently secured approval for another product, Wegovy, aimed at obesity treatment.

Ozempic is a weekly injection designed to lower blood sugar levels by stimulating the pancreas to produce more insulin. While it has not received formal approval for weight loss in India, some doctors in the United States prescribe it for that purpose.

Benefits and Side Effects of Ozempic

Ozempic has been recognized for its effectiveness in managing blood sugar levels in individuals with type-2 diabetes. It offers potential benefits such as improved glycemic control and reduced risk of cardiovascular events. Nevertheless, the medication is not without risks.

Common side effects of Ozempic may include gastrointestinal issues, such as nausea and vomiting, as well as more severe complications. Concerns have been raised regarding potential risks, including muscle loss, pancreatitis, and issues related to kidney and gallbladder function. Patients have also reported vision changes, erectile dysfunction, and mood fluctuations.

Dr. V. Mohan, Chairman of the Madras Diabetes Research Foundation, emphasized the need for cautious use, stating, “They are not cheap and therefore should be used where needed, so that those who need the drug will not otherwise go unattended in the US.”

Controversies Surrounding Ozempic

Since its international launch, Ozempic has sparked considerable debate, particularly regarding its use as a weight loss drug. Initially developed for diabetes management, its off-label usage for weight loss has contributed to its soaring popularity, making Novo Nordisk one of the most valuable pharmaceutical companies in the US market.

Despite its success, medical experts have voiced concerns about the broader societal impacts of Ozempic. Dr. Robert Klitzman, MD, a professor of psychiatry and director of the Master of Science in Bioethics Program at Columbia University, highlighted the high costs associated with anti-obesity medications like Ozempic. “The high costs of anti-obesity drugs and the need for lifelong use pose significant financial challenges, which could worsen health disparities,” he stated.

The potential for these medications to be accessible only to wealthier individuals raises critical questions about societal equity in healthcare. As Ozempic gains traction in India, discussions about its implications will undoubtedly continue, particularly regarding affordability and accessibility for those in need.

In summary, the launch of Ozempic in India represents both an opportunity for improved diabetes management and a challenge in addressing the broader implications surrounding its use and affordability. As healthcare providers and patients navigate these complexities, ongoing dialogue will be essential to ensure that the benefits of such medications are equitably distributed.