New Delhi, Aug 18 — Global pharmaceutical giants Eli Lilly and Novo Nordisk have ignited a surge in India’s weight-loss drug market with the recent launches of their blockbuster injectable treatments, Mounjaro and Wegovy, respectively.
Eli Lilly’s Mounjaro KwikPen, priced between ₹14,000 and ₹27,500 per month, has already generated over ₹100 crore in sales since its debut in March, including ₹47 crore in July alone. Competitor Novo Nordisk, whose semaglutide-based drug Wegovy holds 66% of the market, has reported similarly strong demand, with monthly prices ranging from ₹17,000 to ₹26,000.
Industry data shows that India’s obesity drug market has expanded fivefold since 2021, reaching ₹628 crore (~$75 million). GLP-1 based injectables such as semaglutide and tirzepatide currently dominate more than 70% of the segment.
Analysts say the market is poised for even greater expansion as major Indian pharmaceutical companies—including Sun Pharma, Cipla and Dr. Reddy’s—prepare to launch generic versions once key patents expire in 2026. Lower-cost generics are expected to dramatically increase accessibility.
The impact is already being felt outside the pharmaceutical sector. Restaurants, fitness centres and wellness companies report changing consumer behaviour, with many customers altering their eating habits and turning to holistic lifestyle services.
