Novo Nordisk, a Danish pharmaceutical company with over a 100-year legacy of chronic disease care, announced the launch of Wegovy^® (injectable Semaglutide) in India. Wegovy^® – a once-weekly glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist (GLP-1 RA) – is the first and only weight management medication in India indicated for both long-term chronic weight management and reduction in risk of major adverse cardiovascular events^[1] in people living with the condition. It is available in five dosing strengths with the convenience of an innovative easy-to-use pen device.

Wegovy^® is a prescription-only medication that has the potential to improve the quality of life for millions of Indians living with obesity or overweight.

India has the third highest number of people living with overweight and obesity. Alarmingly, obesity is associated with over 200 diseases⁶, including cardiovascular diseases, certain types of cancer, and type 2 diabetes. Misconceptions about obesity include that it is the result of poor lifestyle choices and a lack of self-discipline. However, obesity is caused by many different factors, including genetics, biology, psychology, society, and the living environment. As with other chronic conditions, such as type 2 diabetes or asthma, obesity requires long-term management with effective treatment solutions.

Clinical studies with Semaglutide 2.4 mg (the active ingredient in Wegovy^®) demonstrate: 20% or more weight reduction in at least 1 in 3 individuals when used along with lifestyle interventions comprising reduced calorie diet and increased physical activity. 20% reduction in the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events, like stroke, heart attack and cardiovascular disease related death, when used on top of standard of care in people with established cardiovascular disease and overweight or obesity.

 Addressing the media, Vikrant Shrotriya – Managing Director, Novo Nordisk India said, “Obesity is not just a personal health concern—it is a chronic disease and a national epidemic that India cannot afford to ignore. Recognising this, we are proud to announce that we are bringing Wegovy^® to Indians as a transformative and evidence-based therapeutic solution with the convenience of a world-class, state-of-the-art pen device. Additionally, we have an India-specific price with the benefit of same price for the first three dosing strengths. With this we are reaffirming our commitment to address India’s growing burden of overweight obesity.”