The market for GLP-1-based injectable therapies in India has reportedly surged tenfold within the past year, driven significantly by the introduction of generic semaglutide in March 2026. This information emerges from a recent analysis of the country’s pharmaceutical landscape. In 2025, Eli Lilly’s Mounjaro, noted for its effectiveness in combating obesity, was first launched in India, followed closely by the introduction of injectable semaglutide by Denmark’s Novo Nordisk, which launched Wegovy and Ozempic later that year.

Prior to the recent developments, earlier generations of injectable GLP-1 therapies such as dulaglutide and liraglutide were already accessible in the market. Initially intended for diabetes management, these therapies are becoming increasingly recognised for their effectiveness in weight management and other metabolic disorders.

Data from Pharmarack’s April 2026 report indicates that the GLP-1 therapy market, valued at Rs 140 crore in April 2025, has reached an impressive Rs 1,408 crore in 2026. Within this growth, Mounjaro alone represents Rs 1,049 crore, constituting over 77 per cent of the total segment.

Mounjaro Leads Despite Competition

Mounjaro has secured its position as India’s top-selling medicine brand since October 2025, maintaining this status despite being among the most expensive treatments, with monthly prices ranging from Rs 13,125 to Rs 25,000. This medication now holds the title of the world’s leading pharmaceutical product by sales revenue.

After the expiration of semaglutide’s patent in March 2026, numerous generic alternatives entered the market, reporting cumulative sales of Rs 199 crore. Despite this competition, Mounjaro saw a 10 per cent increase in sales volume during April compared to March. Likewise, Wegovy and Ozempic achieved nearly 40 per cent volume growth in April, indicating a robust demand for these therapies.

The Pharmarack report highlights an interesting trend: despite the arrival of generics, both the original semaglutide and Mounjaro have maintained their market positions. A New Delhi-based endocrinologist, who chose to remain anonymous, remarked that the competitive landscape permits multiple players to thrive, creating a scenario where “everyone is a winner.” This indicates a strong allegiance from both prescribers and patients to established brands.

Market Dynamics and Regulatory Concerns

With the rise in popularity of GLP-1 therapies, which control appetite and blood sugar, there has also been a surge in the incidence of obesity and diabetes in India. Currently, approximately 10.1 crore adult Indians are diagnosed with diabetes, while 25.4 crore adults are classified with general obesity and 35.1 crore with abdominal obesity.

The latest data reflects that Torrent Pharmaceuticals is now a leading player in the generic semaglutide market, holding an impressive 38 per cent market share. By April, Torrent’s products, Semalix and Sembolic, had generated sales of Rs 17 crore. Companies such as Eris, Alkem, and Corona Pharma have also begun to gain traction, while generics from Lupin, Zydus, and Dr Reddy’s reported lower sales figures in comparison.

Pharmarack noted increasing efforts by generic manufacturers to seize the commercial opportunities presented in this expanding market. However, the report suggests that only two new generic products were introduced in April 2026, indicating a likely stable number of key market players moving forward.

Regulatory scrutiny has intensified concerning the marketing and distribution of these prescription-only medications. The Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation has recently issued new guidelines aimed at curbing unregulated marketing, warning both pharmacists and online platforms against the unauthorised sale of GLP-1 therapies, which are associated with potential serious side effects.

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