India’s rising obesity cases open market opportunities for drugmakers

Diagnosed prevalent cases are expected to increase to 14.63 million in 2031.

Rising obesity cases in India present growth opportunities for foreign and domestic companies, according to GlobalData.

The diagnosed prevalent cases of obesity in the country are expected to increase from 13.75 million in 2024 to 14.63 million in 2031 at a compound annual growth rate of 0.89%.

The trend is expected to drive market growth and attract new industry players, particularly within the anti-obesity drug market.

Local drugmakers are racing to develop and market generic versions of Wegovy (semaglutide injection) once patents expire.

Meanwhile, a legal battle has emerged as Novo Nordisk filed a patent infringement plea against Dr Reddy’s Laboratories and OneSource Specialty Pharma, leading the Delhi High Court to restrain them from launching generic semaglutide in India.

“Weight loss drugs have gained popularity in recent years as people seek effective and easily accessible solutions to manage their weight,” said Nadim Anwer, Pharma Analyst at GlobalData

“However, several factors hinder its acceptance, including rising side effects, affordability, and lack of awareness,” Anwer added.