Biocon Chairperson Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw cautioned against widespread use of GLP-1 weight-loss drugs for non-diabetic, non-obese individuals, citing potential long-term side effects due to limited data. This follows Zerodha CEO Nithin Kamath's observation of significantly weaker-than-expected demand for generic GLP-1 versions in India, despite affordability.
Biopharmaceutical executive Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw has voiced concerns regarding the broad application of GLP-1 weight-loss drugs in India. She advised that individuals not suffering from diabetes or clinical obesity should prioritize diet and exercise over these medications. Mazumdar-Shaw highlighted that GLP-1s alter metabolic and neurological functions, with insufficient long-term data available to assess the chronic use implications and potential side effects.
Demand Discrepancy in Indian Market
Her comments follow observations by Nithin Kamath, the founder and CEO of Zerodha. Kamath expressed surprise at the subdued demand for generic GLP-1 drugs in India, even after their prices dropped significantly to an estimated Rs 1,000-2,500 per month. He noted that despite the growing evidence of benefits beyond weight management, including positive impacts on cardiovascular, metabolic, and liver health, generic drug manufacturers are reportedly reducing sales targets by 25-30%.
Kamath suggested that the primary challenge might not be cost, as the monthly expense is now less than many gym memberships. Instead, he pointed to patient retention as the critical issue. The injectable nature of GLP-1s and the necessity of continuous use, with weight regain upon cessation, make long-term adherence difficult. He also cited conservative prescribing habits among Indian physicians and patient hesitation with self-administered injections as contributing factors.
The emergence of oral GLP-1 pills could potentially alter this adoption curve, Kamath mused, though the market has yet to see the anticipated surge in demand for these drugs post-patent expiry.