Tejal Somvanshi
Ozempic, the diabetes medication turned weight-loss sensation, has taken India by storm despite its official unavailability in the country. The semaglutide-based injection, known for its appetite-suppressing effects, has gained immense popularity among wealthy Indians and celebrities seeking rapid weight loss. However, the drug’s gray market proliferation and potential health risks have raised concerns among medical experts.
Gray Market Demand and Celebrity Influence
The global shortage of Ozempic has not deterred Indians from obtaining the coveted drug. Affluent individuals are resorting to importing Ozempic from Europe or purchasing counterfeit versions through online channels. Dr. Anjali Hooda, a famous Instagram doctor based in New Delhi, reports a surge in requests for Ozempic prescriptions from celebrities and wealthy locals.
The celebrity influence on Ozempic’s popularity cannot be overstated. Bollywood director Karan Johar’s dramatic weight loss sparked speculation about his alleged use of the drug, although he has vehemently denied these claims, attributing his transformation to a healthy lifestyle. On the other hand, Bethenny Frankel, an American television personality, took to instagram to spread awareness against using the easy way out for weight loss through Ozempic.
Maheep Kapoor, a star of the Netflix show “Fabulous Lives of Bollywood Wives,” also spoke out against the Ozempic trend, highlighting the drug shortages faced by diabetic patients who genuinely need it. The show shed light on the growing concern surrounding the misuse of the medication for cosmetic purposes.
Health Risks and Side Effects
The gray market sales of Ozempic in India have raised alarm bells among healthcare professionals. Counterfeit or improperly sourced medications pose serious health risks. Common side effects of Ozempic include abdominal pain, diarrhea, decreased appetite, vomiting, and constipation. However, long-term use and unsupervised administration of the drug may lead to more severe complications.
Famous Youtuber and certified family physician, Doctor Mike, took to” Youtube” to discuss how Ozempic works. He talks about consumption of this drug can lead to rapid weight loss due to its mechanism of cutting and suppressing appetite; once one stops consuming this medicine they regain the lost weight and perhaps even more. According to him, ideal pace for weight loss should be one to two pounds a week and not 15 pounds in a week, a result often showcased by the drug.
Market Potential and Global Success
The anti-obesity medication market is projected to exceed, as forecasted by J. P. Morgan Research, a staggering $100 billion by 2030, driven by the increasing prevalence of obesity and the demand for effective weight loss solutions. Ozempic and its sister drug, Wegovy, have already generated tens of billions of dollars in revenue for their manufacturer, Novo Nordisk.
India, with its growing affluent population and heightened awareness of health and wellness, presents a lucrative market for weight loss medications. However, the lack of official availability and regulatory oversight of Ozempic has created a dangerous gray market scenario.
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Regulatory Challenges and Alternatives
The Indian regulatory authorities have yet to approve Ozempic for weight loss, with limited availability for diabetes treatment . The Tribune India reported that the drug is expected to be launched in India soon, but no specific timeline has been provided.
In the absence of Ozempic, Indian doctors may be exploring alternative weight loss medications and treatments. Trulicity (dulaglutide) is available as an injectable medication for managing type 2 diabetes, and Saxenda (liraglutide) is available for both weight loss and diabetes management.
Additionally, Lirafit (a biosimilar of liraglutide) has been launched by Glenmark Pharmaceuticals as a more affordable option for managing type 2 diabetes. Whether these match the results of Ozempic is currently unknown.
Conclusion
The Ozempic craze in India highlights the growing demand for quick and effective weight loss solutions, fueled by celebrity influence and societal pressures. However, the reliance on gray market channels and the potential health risks associated with unsupervised use of the drug raise significant concerns.
As the world battles an obesity epidemic, the development of safe and regulated weight loss medications is crucial. The Indian regulatory authorities must prioritize the official approval and availability of Ozempic while ensuring strict controls to prevent misuse. In the meantime, individuals seeking to lose weight should consult with healthcare professionals and explore safe, sustainable methods rather than resorting to unregulated and potentially dangerous options.
The Ozempic phenomenon in India serves as a reminder that the quest for rapid weight loss should not come at the cost of one’s health. It is essential to approach weight management holistically, combining a balanced diet, regular exercise, and necessary medical interventions under the guidance of qualified professionals.
