Arabic version: سوق أدوية فقدان الوزن في الهند يتوسع مع الخيارات الجنيسة

India has seen a surge in the availability of cheaper, generic weight loss drugs following the expiration of the patent for semaglutide in March. This development has led to more people seeking weight loss medications in a country that has the world’s second highest number of overweight adults. According to ABC News, health professionals are expressing concerns about the potential misuse of these drugs as demand rises.

Patients like Pankhuri Pareek, who struggled to lose pregnancy weight, have turned to medications like Mounjaro, which contains tirzepatide. Pareek reported positive changes in her health after starting the medication, but she also emphasized the importance of thorough medical evaluation before beginning treatment. Many individuals are sharing their experiences on social media, which can influence others to seek similar treatments without proper guidance.

However, doctors are increasingly worried about the implications of widespread access to these medications. Dr. Preethi Mrinalini, a laparoscopic and bariatric surgeon in Chennai, noted that many patients are seeking prescriptions without being overweight, which raises concerns about health risks associated with improper use. She has experienced a rise in inquiries about weight loss drugs from individuals who may not be appropriate candidates for such treatments.

The introduction of generic brands has made weight loss drugs significantly more affordable, with some priced up to 70% less than original products like Ozempic. This price reduction could lead to an increased market for weight loss drugs in India, which is projected to reach 80 billion rupees ($1.18 billion) by the end of the decade. Despite the benefits, experts insist that stricter regulations are necessary to prevent misuse and safeguard patient health as the market evolves.