Overview
- The CDSCO approved semaglutide injection (Ozempic) on September 26 for adults with insufficiently controlled type 2 diabetes as an adjunct to diet and exercise, and it will be available only by prescription.
- Novo Nordisk says it aims to make the once‑weekly injection available in India soon, but the company has not disclosed pricing.
- The Indian approval covers blood sugar control in diabetes rather than the higher‑dose weight‑loss indication used in some other markets, and experts warn against off‑label or black‑market use.
- Clinicians emphasize medical supervision due to common gastrointestinal side effects and rarer risks such as pancreatitis, gallbladder issues, kidney problems and thyroid concerns.
- Market watchers note competition from Eli Lilly’s tirzepatide (Mounjaro), and reports suggest comparable therapies currently cost roughly ₹14,000–₹26,000 per month while generics could lower costs after 2026.