The launch of new obesity drugs like Wegovy (semaglutide 2.4 mg) and Mounjaro (tirzepatide) in India is poised to have a significant impact on Indian public health, particularly given the current prevalence of obesity and its associated health burdens12.
Here's a breakdown of the broader impact:
•Addressing a Significant Public Health Challenge:
◦Obesity is a widespread issue in India, affecting
approximately 24% of women and 23% of men3. This high prevalence increases the
risk of numerous illnesses and places a growing burden on the healthcare
system3.
◦Experts describe obesity as a "long-term health
condition that needs medical support"3.
•Providing Clinically Proven Treatment Options:
◦Wegovy, launched by Novo Nordisk, is a once-weekly
injectable therapy indicated for chronic weight management and reducing the
risk of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE)1. It is designed to address
both weight loss and cardiovascular outcomes for people living with obesity1.
◦Similarly, American pharmaceutical company Eli Lilly and
Company launched its diabetes and obesity management drug, Mounjaro, in India2.
◦These drugs offer a "clinically proven option for
sustained weight loss while also helping reduce the risk of serious
cardiovascular events"1.
•Potential for Improved Health Outcomes and Reduced Burden:
◦Studies on Wegovy have shown that at least one in three
people using it along with lifestyle changes may lose over 20% of their body
weight2.
◦Beyond weight loss, Wegovy has been proven to lower the
risk of heart attacks, strokes, and related deaths by 20% in individuals who
already have heart disease and obesity2.
◦By effectively managing obesity and its cardiovascular
complications, these drugs have the potential to reduce the incidence of
obesity-related illnesses, thereby possibly alleviating the growing burden on
the healthcare system in India3.
It is important to note that Wegovy is a prescription-only
medicine and must be used under medical supervision3.
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