India is taking the initiative to improve glucagon-like peptides (GLP-1) domestic production. GLP-1 drugs are utilised to manage diabetes and obesity. For obesity, GLP-1 drugs work by delaying digestion and extending the feeling of fullness among patients. It activates the GLP-1 receptor in the pancreas which increases the production of insulin and reduces glucagon released response.
Novo Nordisk (Danish drugmaker) has a patent on semaglutide, a GLP-1 agonist and active ingredient that is widely popular for weight loss. Innovators are trying to increase the production of such drugs due to the increase in demand. Industry experts say diabetic drugs- Ozempic is set to expire in 2026. GLP-1 is a class of anti-diabetic drugs that has been in news for their off-label use. This drug is off-label and widely used to decrease obesity.
Arunish Chawala, Secretary of the Department of Pharmaceuticals said, “The Indian companies planning to manufacture GLP-1 have applied for the government’s production-linked incentive (PLI) scheme, and we will give them the incentives once they start manufacturing in 2026 after expiring of the patent. Drug makers across the globe are trying to make a profit from the weight-loss drugs market which is estimated to reach at least $ 100 billion by the end of the decade.
India has a high obesity rate it is more in a population of women. India has the second-highest number of people with type-2 diabetes. According to the World Obesity Federation Atlas, by 2035 around 11% of Indian adults will be obese. In the club of drugmakers highly recognised companies like Biocon, Sun Pharma, Cipla, Dr Reddy and Lupin are included. Drug makers have added the use of GLP-1 drugs as ‘anti-diabetic’ in their application for an upcoming incentive scheme. Chawala said that their usage for obesity depends on the approval from the regulatory bodies.
