Ozempic in India: Meaning, uses, side effects,and price

Ozempic has now been approved for use in India

India has recently approved Ozempic for adults with type 2 diabetes, marking a significant step in the country’s fight against rising metabolic disorders. With over 77 million adults in India living with diabetes and obesity rates climbing, this new approval is important for both patients and workplaces that focus on employee health and wellness.

What makes Ozempic stand out? 

Although it is primarily a medication for blood sugar control, it has gained attention for its weight loss benefits, which is why many people call it a “weight loss drug.” This buzz has created curiosity among many who see it as a solution for weight management, even beyond diabetes care.

However, it’s crucial to understand that Ozempic is a prescription medication. It is not a quick or casual solution for weight loss. Using it without medical guidance can lead to side effects and health risks.

What is Ozempic?

Ozempic meaning:
Ozempic is a medication called a GLP-1 receptor agonist. It is a medicine that helps control blood sugar levels in adults with type 2 diabetes. It has also gained attention for helping some people lose weight, but its main purpose is diabetes management.

How does Ozempic works?

Ozempic helps your body manage blood sugar in a few ways:

1. Stimulates insulin release: When your blood sugar rises after eating, Ozempic signals your pancreas to release insulin, which helps lower blood sugar.
   
2. Slows digestion: It slows down how quickly food leaves your stomach, preventing sudden spikes in blood sugar after meals.
   
3. Reduces appetite: By helping you feel full for longer, Ozempic can indirectly support weight management.

What are the dosages & forms of Ozempic?

• Injection: Ozempic is usually given as a once-a-week injection. This is the most common form in India.
  
• Tablets: In some countries, Ozempic is also available in tablet form, but these are not yet widely available in India.

Your doctor will decide the right dose and schedule based on your health condition.

What are the benefits of Ozempic?

• Better blood sugar control: Helps people with type 2 diabetes maintain healthy sugar levels.
  
• Weight loss: Clinical trials show an average 10–15% weight loss in patients using Ozempic.
  
• Heart health: Can reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke.
  
• Other potential benefits: Some studies suggest early improvement in liver and kidney health.
  

Risks & side effects

Like all medicines, Ozempic can have side effects. It’s important to know what to expect:

• Nausea, stomach discomfort, and sometimes changes in facial fat called “Ozempic face.”
  
• Pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas), eye problems, and mood changes.
  
• Long-term effects in Indian patients are not fully known. Also, weight may return after stopping the medicine.
  

Ozempic in India: Availability, price & prescription

Availability in India:
Ozempic is not officially available for general retail in India. Following its approval by the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO), Ozempic is expected to launch soon across India.

Is Ozempic available without a prescription in India?
In India, Ozempic is not available over-the-counter. This means you cannot buy it without a doctor’s prescription. Only a qualified healthcare professional can decide whether Ozempic is suitable for you, determine the right dosage, and monitor your response to the medication.

How much does Ozempic cost in India?
The price of Ozempic in India typically ranges from ₹10,000 to ₹12,000 per month, depending on the dosage and brand. Because it is a weekly injection, this monthly cost covers four doses. Patients should also consider additional costs such as doctor consultations and follow-ups.

Mounjaro vs Ozempic: Which is better?

With the rising focus on diabetes care and weight management, two medications often come up in conversations: Mounjaro (tirzepatide) and Ozempic (semaglutide). Both belong to the class of GLP-1 receptor agonists, but they have some important differences.

HR & Employee considerations

With the growing popularity of Ozempic for diabetes management and weight loss, employees may have questions about its use and relevance in the workplace. HR teams should be aware of best practices to handle such queries safely and ethically.

Common employee questions

1. Can my insurance cover Ozempic for diabetes or weight loss?
   Most group health insurance plans only cover Ozempic for type 2 diabetes treatment. Coverage for general weight loss or cosmetic use is typically not included. 
2. Is it safe to use Ozempic alongside workplace wellness programs?
   Employees taking Ozempic should consult a doctor before combining it with diet plans, exercise programs, or other wellness initiatives to ensure safety.

What should HR do about Ozempic and employee wellness?

• Promote medical consultation: Encourage employees to speak with their doctor before starting any medication.
• Avoid promoting it as a quick fix: Do not present Ozempic as a “shortcut” for weight loss in workplace wellness.
• Bring in experts: Host informational sessions or webinars with diabetes specialists, nutritionists, or endocrinologists.
• Promote wellness programs: Offer nutrition counseling, fitness programs, and stress management workshops. Include diabetes screening and regular health check-ups.

Be aware of ethical and legal considerations offering or suggesting medication for non-medical purposes can create health risks and liability issues.