The Long-Term Impact of Ozempic on Weight Loss
Obesity is not just a matter of lifestyle but a chronic condition that demands ongoing medical attention, as stated by Vikrant Shrotriya, Managing Director of Novo Nordisk India, during the India Today Conclave 2025. With the global demand for obesity treatments rapidly increasing, Shrotriya shed light on the intricate nature of obesity, the science underlying weight management, and the significance of medications like Ozempic in the context of a growing discourse on obesity and the extended use of weight-loss medications. He highlighted that almost 40% of the world’s population falls into the categories of obese, overweight, or centrally obese. In India, even individuals with a normal Body Mass Index (BMI) often harbor excessive visceral fat owing to genetic factors, rendering them susceptible to lifestyle-related illnesses. This phenomenon, known as Thin Fat India, is an emerging health challenge.
The World Health Organization (WHO) designated obesity as a disease back in 1994, and nations like the US, UK, and Canada have now labeled it as a major public health emergency due to its associations with conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, fatty liver, osteoarthritis, and infertility. Shrotriya pointed out that while conventional weight loss methods have typically focused on diet and exercise, studies show that about 95% of individuals who lose weight through these means end up regaining it within a few years. “The human body is wired to resist weight loss—metabolism slows down, and hunger hormones surge as weight decreases, making maintenance challenging,” he explained. Drawing a parallel between overeating and smoking, he emphasized that it is not simply a matter of choice but is influenced by metabolic and physiological factors.
The Rise of GLP-1 Receptor Agonists: Revolutionizing Weight Loss
In this context, GLP-1 receptor agonists like Ozempic have emerged as transformative agents. Originally developed for diabetes, these medications mimic a hormone that regulates appetite and insulin levels, resulting in significant weight reduction. Clinical trials have demonstrated that individuals using semaglutide, the primary component in Ozempic, experience an average weight loss of 15-20%. This success paved the way for the creation of Wegovy, a potent version specifically tailored for treating obesity.
Nonetheless, a substantial obstacle remains—weight regain post cessation of the drug. “Similar to medications for hypertension or diabetes, weight-loss treatments may necessitate long-term use to uphold outcomes,” Shrotriya stated. He pointed out that most metabolic disorders, including obesity, have a tendency to recur once treatment is discontinued. “When a diabetic patient stops taking medication, blood sugar levels rise again; likewise, when weight-loss interventions are halted, the body often reverts to its previous weight,” he elaborated. While some individuals may be able to wean off the drug with the assistance of diet and physical activity, many will likely need ongoing medication to maintain their progress.
Global Demand and Challenges: Availability, Side Effects, and Misuse
In spite of the worldwide demand for Ozempic, the drug is not yet accessible in India. Novo Nordisk has yet to introduce the medication in the Indian market due to regulatory and commercial considerations. However, the company offers other weight-loss drugs in various regions. Saxenda (liraglutide), sanctioned for treating obesity, is retailed in the US, UK, Canada, and parts of Europe. Wegovy (semaglutide), a more potent iteration of Ozempic tailored for weight management, is available in select countries like the US, UK, Germany, Denmark, and Japan. While Ozempic primarily serves as a diabetes treatment, it is frequently employed off-label for weight loss in nations such as the US, Canada, and several European countries. In 2023, Novo Nordisk launched Saxenda in India, but its adoption has been limited due to high costs and restricted availability.
Shrotriya also cautioned about the potential side effects associated with these medications. Common complaints include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and fatigue, while more severe complications may include pancreatitis, gallbladder problems, and kidney issues. He underscored concerns about the loss of muscle mass alongside fat reduction, stressing the importance of maintaining a well-rounded diet with sufficient protein intake. Moreover, certain studies suggest potential impacts on mental health, including a heightened risk of depression and suicidal ideation, although further research is needed in this domain.
Affordability poses another significant barrier, particularly in developing nations. With escalating global demand, Novo Nordisk has invested close to $25 billion in expanding production capabilities, although Shrotriya acknowledged that costs remain elevated. “As production scales up, we anticipate a decline in prices,” he remarked.
The surge in Ozempic’s popularity has also raised concerns about misuse, with many individuals using it for cosmetic weight loss despite not meeting medical criteria. Shrotriya cautioned that unsupervised use could result in complications. While the drug is effective, he stressed that it is not a panacea. “Early intervention for obesity can prevent severe complications and reduce healthcare expenditures over time,” he concluded.
