Novo Nordisk introduced its GLP‑1 therapy Ozempic to the Indian market on December 12, 2025, making the drug available through local pharmacies and digital health platforms. The launch marks the company’s first entry into India, a country that hosts the world’s second‑largest population of people with type 2 diabetes.
The company set a market‑specific price of ₹2,200 per week for the lowest‑dose formulation, roughly $24.35 USD. The pricing strategy is designed to address affordability concerns and to secure early market share before generic competitors enter the scene after the semaglutide patent expires in March 2026.
India’s diabetes burden provides a vast addressable market, and the launch comes amid strong competition. Eli Lilly’s Mounjaro has already been introduced, and Novo Nordisk’s obesity drug Wegovy entered India in June 2025. Ozempic’s dual benefits—glycemic control and weight loss—position it as a compelling option for patients seeking comprehensive metabolic care.
The semaglutide patent expiry in March 2026 signals an impending wave of generic versions. By securing an early foothold, Novo Nordisk aims to capture a share of the market before price erosion from generics reduces margins. The company’s pricing and distribution strategy is therefore a pre‑emptive move to lock in customers and build brand loyalty.
Vikrant Shrotriya, Managing Director of Novo Nordisk India, emphasized that Ozempic offers benefits beyond blood‑sugar control, including weight loss and protection against cardiovascular and kidney complications. He highlighted the company’s commitment to providing an “accessible therapy” in a market where affordability is a key barrier.
The launch is part of Novo Nordisk’s broader strategy to expand its presence in emerging markets. The company has invested in local infrastructure and is integrating AI and digital technologies to streamline operations and enhance patient engagement. The move is expected to contribute significantly to the company’s global revenue mix and to reinforce its leadership in the GLP‑1 segment.
While the launch itself did not trigger an immediate market‑reaction event, the strategic timing and pricing signal Novo Nordisk’s confidence in capturing a sizable share of India’s growing diabetes and obesity treatment market. The company’s focus on affordability, early market entry, and comprehensive benefit profile positions it well against competitors and sets the stage for future growth in the region.
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