The Indian launch of Ozempic, Novo Nordisk’s weekly injection to manage blood sugar levels, has been hailed by doctors as it also promises to address the growing problem of obesity in India, and the chronic disease risk it poses. Doctors of CK Birla Hospital, Gurgaon and Aster CMI Hospital, Bengaluru while welcoming the arrival of Ozempic in India, have also warned about its misuse, saying taking the drug without medical supervision can lead to nutritional deficiencies, muscle loss and other serious health issues.
“Ozempic can be very beneficial for people with Type 2 diabetes and for those who are medically classified as obese. It helps lower blood sugar, reduces weight, and improves heart and kidney risk factors. When used under a doctor’s guidance, along with healthy eating, exercise and regular check-ups, it can improve long-term health,” says Dr Tushar Tayal, Associate Director, Internal Medicine, CK Birla Hospital, Gurgaon.
Ozempic prices in India
Ozempic has been priced at Rs 2,200 per week for its lowest 0.25 mg and the monthly cost would add up to Rs 8,800.
For 0.5 mg dose, the GLP-1 drug has been priced at Rs 10,170 for a month while 1 mg dose is priced at Rs 11,175 per month in India.
Can Ozempic help to address the obesity crisis?
Ozempic can be a blessing for people with severe obesity as the weight loss drug helps reduce appetite and in dealing with food cravings. Obesity problem in India has reached epidemic proportions with the country becoming home to 180 million obese or overweight individuals, only behind China. A Lancet study warns this number could reach 450 million by 2050.
“The launch of Ozempic in India may help people with obesity and type 2 diabetes when it is used under proper medical guidance. It can support weight loss and better blood sugar control by reducing appetite,” says Dr Mahesh D M, Consultant – Endocrinology, Aster CMI Hospital, Bangalore.
Common Ozempic mistake to avoid
While Ozempic launch in India can go a long way in addressing the obesity problem, but experts also fear its misuse by people who may not be needing it and may take it over-the-counter. This may trigger unpleasant side effects, but short term and long term in nature. According to Harvard Health, the most common side effects of Ozempic use is gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation. The serious side effects may include inflammation of the pancreas, gastroparesis, bowel obstruction, and gallstone attacks and bile duct blockage.
Doctors have warned people not to treat Ozempic as a weight loss shortcut, as it is not only important to consider the right dose, but to also ensure healthy lifestyle routine like balanced diet and exercise regime. Not doing so can result in nutritional deficiencies and muscle loss.
“Ozempic is a medical treatment, not a quick weight-loss shortcut. It works best with proper dosing, monitoring and long-term use. If someone stops the drug suddenly or takes it for only a short period, most of the lost weight usually comes back,” says Dr Tayal.
“People should understand that lifestyle changes like healthy eating, regular exercise, and mental well-being are still essential. Medicines like Ozempic should support health, not replace healthy habits,” says Dr Mahesh.
“Misuse without a doctor’s advice may lead to side effects like nausea, weakness, low blood sugar, and nutritional deficiencies,” adds Dr Mahesh.
Risks of buying Ozempic without prescription
When used correctly, Ozempic can be life-saving for people battling with chronic diseases due to obesity, its incorrect use on the other hand can turn out to be deadly.
“Some people may face low blood sugar, especially if they already use diabetes medicines. In some cases, it may worsen stomach problems or cause severe abdominal pain,” says Dr Tayal.
“There is also a risk of incorrect dosing and long-term complications without medical monitoring. Using such medicines without doctor supervision can be unsafe and may do more harm than good,” he adds.
In cases where someone has a family history of certain thyroid cancers, Ozempic isn’t advised and if people are taking it without consulting their doctors, it may be troublesome, even life-threatening.
“Doctors usually check for side effects like severe stomach issues, pancreatitis, kidney problems, gallbladder disease and changes in vision. Buying from unverified sources also increases the risk of counterfeit products,” warns Dr Tayal.
What happens when non-diabetics or people with normal BMI take Ozempic?
When non-diabetic people or those with a normal BMI take Ozempic, it can disturb the body’s natural balance. It may suppress appetite too much, leading to poor nutrition, weakness, and low energy.
“Rapid or unnecessary weight loss can cause muscle loss, dehydration, hair fall, and vitamin deficiencies. Some people may experience nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, or dizziness. It can also affect blood sugar levels, causing sudden drops and faintness. Over time, misuse may impact mental well-being and body image. Using such medicines without medical need or supervision can put overall health at risk,” says Dr Mahesh.
Loss of muscle mass
Some studies show that weight loss on semaglutide may also include loss of muscle mass. This can affect strength and overall health if exercise and adequate protein intake are not maintained, warns Dr Tayal.
With weight loss drugs becoming more affordable for Indians, there is a need for people to use the product wisely, and not as a shortcut for shedding weight. More importantly, the GLP-1 medication cannot replace balanced diet, exercise and other pillars of a healthy lifestyle.
Disclaimer: Always consult a doctor before starting any diet or fitness routine. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.