Originally developed for type 2 diabetes, Ozempic has rapidly become one of the most talked-about medications in the global weight-loss conversation. In India too, interest around the injectable drug has surged, particularly among people struggling with obesity and metabolic disorders. But how does it actually work, how much does it cost, and is it safe to use purely for weight loss?
Ozempic is the brand name for semaglutide, a once-weekly injectable medication primarily prescribed for people with type 2 diabetes. It mimics a naturally occurring gut hormone that regulates blood sugar by improving insulin release, slowing down digestion, and significantly reducing appetite. This combination not only helps stabilise glucose levels but also leads to gradual and sustained weight loss.
For individuals without diabetes who require long-term weight management, semaglutide is available under the name Wegovy. Wegovy is approved specifically for obesity treatment and is prescribed in higher maintenance doses compared to Ozempic.
In India, Ozempic is available only via prescription and is primarily intended for diabetes care. Prices can vary depending on dosage and availability, but it is widely considered an expensive medication, often costing several thousand rupees per pen. Due to high demand and limited supply, access can sometimes be inconsistent, making medical supervision even more important.
Ozempic is backed by some of the strongest clinical evidence in modern diabetology. Large global trials have shown not only excellent blood sugar control but also meaningful weight reduction. Importantly, long-term studies have demonstrated cardiovascular benefits, including a reduced risk of heart attacks and strokes in people with diabetes and existing heart disease.
More recent research has also highlighted kidney-protective benefits, reinforcing semaglutide’s role as a multi-system metabolic drug rather than just a glucose-lowering injection.
According to Dr Rajiv Kovil, Head of Diabetology and Weight Loss Expert at Zandra Healthcare and Co-founder of the Rang De Neela Initiative, semaglutide represents a major shift in how doctors approach metabolic health.
He explains that semaglutide works across multiple pathways, improving blood sugar, aiding weight loss, protecting the heart, and slowing kidney damage, making it one of the most comprehensive treatments currently available for metabolic diseases. However, he emphasises that it should never be used casually or without medical supervision.
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Most people experience mild side effects, particularly in the early weeks. These may include nausea, acidity, constipation, bloating, or a persistent feeling of fullness. In most cases, symptoms settle as the body adjusts to the medication.
That said, Ozempic is not suitable for everyone. People with a history of pancreatitis or rare thyroid cancers, such as medullary thyroid carcinoma, are generally advised against using it. This is why a detailed medical evaluation is crucial before starting treatment.
In simple terms, Ozempic reflects cutting-edge medical science translating into real-world benefits. When prescribed responsibly and monitored by a specialist, it can support sustainable weight loss while improving overall metabolic health. However, experts agree it is not a shortcut or cosmetic fix; it is a long-term medical therapy that must be used thoughtfully.
As demand grows in India, understanding both the promise and the limitations of Ozempic is key to using it safely and effectively.
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