India's Obesity Battle Heats Up! Novo Nordisk India Slashes Wegovy Price by 37% – Who Benefits Next?

Healthcare/Biotech

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Updated on 12 Nov 2025, 03:01 pm

Novo Nordisk India has announced a substantial 37% price reduction for its weight-loss drug Wegovy, a significant development in India's burgeoning obesity management market. The effective weekly price for the starting dose (0.25 mg) will now be ₹2,712, with the total cost including the administration device at ₹10,850. Prices for other strengths have also been revised downwards.

Semaglutide, the active ingredient in Wegovy, is a GLP-1 drug that functions as an appetite suppressant, leading to reduced calorie intake. This strategic price cut is aimed at making the innovative medication more accessible to a larger population struggling with overweight and obesity in India. Novo Nordisk India Managing Director Vikrant Shrotriya emphasized the company's commitment to providing effective, safe, and sustainable obesity treatment, highlighting obesity as a serious concern in India.

The move intensifies competition against key rivals, most notably Eli Lilly's Mounjaro (tirzepatide), another GLP-1 drug that has become India's top-selling medicine. Wegovy, launched in June 2025 with five dose strengths and a FlexTouch device, is also indicated for reducing cardiovascular risks.

To further expand its market presence, Novo Nordisk India recently partnered with Emcure Pharma to launch semaglutide injection 2.4 mg under the brand name Poviztra.

Impact: This price reduction is expected to boost sales volume for Wegovy in India, increase market share for Novo Nordisk India, and intensify competition in the GLP-1 drug segment. It could also put pressure on competitor pricing and product strategies, potentially impacting the overall Indian pharmaceutical market, especially in the chronic disease management segment. The partnership with Emcure Pharma signifies a strategy to leverage local distribution networks for wider reach. Rating: 8/10

Difficult Terms: GLP-1: Glucagon-like peptide-1. A class of drugs that mimic natural hormones, often used to treat type 2 diabetes and obesity by regulating appetite and blood sugar. Appetite suppressant: A substance that reduces the urge to eat. Cardiovascular risks: Potential dangers or likelihood of developing diseases related to the heart and blood vessels. Chronic weight management: Long-term strategies and treatments to control body weight.