Why Did Novo Nordisk Launch Wegovy for Weight Loss in India?

New Delhi, June 24 (NationPress) The Danish pharmaceutical firm Novo Nordisk has unveiled its once-weekly injectable weight-loss medication known as Wegovy in India, priced at Rs 4,336.25 per dose.

Wegovy, categorized as a glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist (GLP-1 RA), stands out as the first and only medication for weight management available in India.

This drug, which contains semaglutide as its active compound, is formulated for long-term management of chronic weight issues and aims to diminish the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events for individuals affected by these conditions.

Wegovy is offered in five different dosages: 0.25 mg, 0.5 mg, 1 mg, 1.7 mg, and 2.4 mg, equipped with a user-friendly, innovative pen device.

The pricing for the initial three dosages is set at 4,336 rupees, with a monthly cost starting at Rs 17,345 for the pen, as reported by the company.

In contrast, the 1.7 mg variant is priced at Rs 24,280 per pen, while the 2.4 mg option costs Rs 26,015 per pen.

Wegovy is a prescription-based treatment that has the potential to significantly enhance the quality of life for millions of individuals in India struggling with obesity or being overweight, according to the company.

"Obesity is not merely a personal health issue; it is a chronic disease and a national crisis that India must confront. We are thrilled to introduce Wegovy as a transformative, evidence-backed therapeutic option, along with a state-of-the-art pen device," stated Vikrant Shrotriya, Managing Director of Novo Nordisk India.

"Our India-specific pricing strategy ensures that the first three dosing strengths are available at the same rate, reaffirming our commitment to tackling India's growing challenges of overweight and obesity," he added.

It is important to note that common side effects associated with this medication include nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, constipation, and abdominal pain. For individuals with type 2 diabetes, it may lead to low blood sugar and can also cause gastrointestinal issues such as gas, stomach flu, heartburn, and respiratory symptoms like a runny nose or sore throat. Studies in rodents have indicated a potential risk of thyroid tumors or cancer linked to Wegovy. Additionally, cases of acute pancreatitis and gallbladder complications have been documented in clinical studies.

Wegovy functions by targeting critical regions of the brain involved in the regulation of appetite and food consumption. It works to diminish hunger, enhance feelings of fullness, and reduce cravings, ultimately leading to weight loss.

The medication also improves insulin sensitivity and positively impacts the reduction of cardiometabolic risks and events.