The Indian pharmaceutical companies, Sun Pharma and Lupin, are developing oral semaglutide pills to address obesity and injection aversion. Currently, leading anti-obesity drugs like Mounjaro and Wegovy are available in injectable form, limiting accessibility and patient comfort. The Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) has given Sun Pharma permission for a large-scale clinical trial to test its semaglutide tablets, while Lupin has received the green light for its bioequivalence study.
Obesity is becoming a significant public health challenge in India, with a projected 450 million overweight and obese adults by 2050. Experts believe that the injectable form of semaglutide is more effective for weight loss, but the oral variant could improve accessibility and patient comfort. Other Indian companies, such as Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories Ltd, Cipla Ltd, and Mankind Pharma, are also developing generic versions of semaglutide.
The development of these anti-obesity drugs is significant, and experts urge strict medical supervision and caution against misuse. Dr. Balram Bhargava, former director general of the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), said that these drugs are “wonder drugs and novel inventions” but should be used under strict medical supervision. He added that irrational use of these drugs could have serious consequences and that they are suitable as a second line of treatment for individuals who are obese and diabetic.
The key takeaways from this development are:
1. Sun Pharma and Lupin are developing oral semaglutide pills to address obesity and injection aversion.
2. Regulatory approvals have been granted for Phase III trials and bioequivalence studies.
3. India faces an obesity burden of 450 million adults by 2050.
4. Experts urge strict medical supervision and caution against misuse.
5. Generic versions may flood the market next year, reshaping affordability and access.
Overall, the development of oral semaglutide pills and the upcoming availability of generic versions could significantly impact the treatment of obesity in India. However, it is crucial to ensure that these drugs are used responsibly and under strict medical supervision to avoid misuse and potential consequences.