According to market researcher Pharmarack, Rybelsus has experienced a remarkable increase in sales, climbing from Rs 147 crore in April of the previous year to Rs 363 crore in April. This oral drug, available in three strengths, has been praised for its effectiveness in treating Type 2 diabetes since its introduction in 2022. However, it is not just its diabetes control capabilities that have driven its success; the drug's anti-obesity properties have fueled its popularity, especially among individuals looking to manage their weight without extensive physical effort.
The surge in sales of Rybelsus has had a significant impact on the Indian anti-obesity market, which has witnessed exponential growth in recent years. Sales of anti-obesity drugs, including Rybelsus, have tripled, with the overall market expanding at a compound annual growth rate of 32% over the last five years, reaching Rs 474 crore in January this year. Among these medications, Semaglutide, the primary component of Rybelsus, holds a substantial portion of the market share, followed by Dapagliflozin, another drug used for Type 2 diabetes management.
As the sales of anti-obesity medications continue to rise in India, medical professionals have raised concerns about the potential dangers associated with their overuse. Experts have cautioned that excessive consumption of these drugs can elevate the risk of cardiovascular events such as heart attacks and strokes, as observed with previous medications like sibutramine and fenfluramine. Additionally, some anti-obesity drugs may induce mental disturbances, leading to issues like insomnia, restlessness, and nervousness. To mitigate these risks, healthcare providers emphasize the importance of following medical advice, adhering to prescribed dosages, and being vigilant about the potential consequences of excessive usage of oral anti-obesity medications to ensure safe and effective weight management.