Novo Nordisk has launched Ozempic, a once-weekly injectable drug for Type 2 diabetes, in India, adding a new option to the country’s growing diabetes treatment landscape. The medicine contains semaglutide, a modern therapy that has been widely used in several countries to help patients achieve better blood sugar control.
Ozempic works by copying the action of a natural hormone in the body that increases insulin release when blood sugar levels rise. It also lowers the amount of sugar produced by the liver and slows digestion, helping to keep glucose levels stable. Another effect of the drug is appetite suppression, which can lead to weight reduction in some patients. However, in India, the drug has been approved specifically for managing Type 2 diabetes and not as a weight-loss treatment.
The drug is administered once a week through a pre-filled injection pen, making it more convenient compared to daily injections. Treatment usually starts with a 0.25 mg dose, which helps the body adjust to the medication. Based on the patient’s response, doctors may increase the dose to 0.5 mg or 1 mg over time.
The starting dose is priced at about ₹2,200 per week, translating to nearly ₹8,800 per month. Higher doses cost more, raising concerns about affordability for long-term use, as diabetes requires ongoing treatment.
India is home to one of the largest populations of people living with diabetes, and the numbers continue to rise due to lifestyle-related factors such as poor diet, lack of exercise, and obesity. Doctors believe Ozempic may benefit patients who have not achieved adequate blood sugar control with existing oral medicines or insulin.
Medical experts stress that Ozempic should be used only under doctor supervision and as part of a comprehensive diabetes care plan. This includes balanced nutrition, regular physical activity, and routine monitoring of blood sugar levels. Some patients may experience side effects such as nausea, vomiting, or stomach discomfort, especially during the initial weeks of treatment.
With Ozempic’s entry, India’s diabetes care market is seeing a shift towards newer injectable therapies. While the drug offers promise for improved blood sugar management, doctors underline the importance of responsible use, patient awareness, and long-term follow-up to ensure safety and effectiveness.
