India Tightens Crackdown on Unauthorised Sale of Weight-Loss Drugs After Generic Boom

India’s drug regulator has stepped up surveillance against the unauthorised sale and promotion of weight-loss medicines, the health ministry announced on Tuesday, following the launch of cheaper generic versions of blockbuster drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy. Several leading Indian pharmaceutical companies, including Dr Reddy’s, Zydus, and Sun Pharma, have introduced multiple brands of semaglutide-based drugs—some priced up to 70% lower than Novo Nordisk’s originals—after the patent expiry last week triggered a surge in market activity.

Semaglutide, the key ingredient in these diabetes and weight-loss treatments, has rapidly gained popularity, raising concerns over potential misuse and confusion among prescribers as prices fall. In response, the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) conducted inspections at 49 entities nationwide, covering wholesalers, retailers, and slimming clinics. The regulator identified violations related to unauthorised sales, improper prescription practices, and misleading promotions, issuing notices to those found non-compliant.

Authorities have warned that unsupervised use of such drugs could lead to serious health risks, especially as they become increasingly accessible across various platforms. Earlier this month, CDSCO also cautioned pharmaceutical firms against direct or indirect advertising of weight-loss drugs, including surrogate promotions through obesity awareness campaigns. With over 40 Indian drugmakers expected to launch more than 50 brands, the domestic market for these drugs is projected to grow significantly, reaching ₹80 billion by 2030 from around ₹15 billion currently, according to Pharmarack estimates.

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