GLP-1 medicines in India: Brands, Uses and Costs

Dr Rahul Baxi
Medically reviewed by Dr Rahul Baxi · Written by PharmEasy Medical Team · Published on 21 August 2026 | Updated on 21 August 2026

GLP-1-based medicines have become one of the most popular management options for uncontrolled type 2 diabetes in recent years. Some medicines containing GLP-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) and dual receptor agonists (GLP-1 and GIP RAs) have also been approved for weight management when used alongside a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity like resistance training.

In India, the molecules semaglutide (marketed as Rybelsus, Ozempic, and Wegovy, depending on the formulation and indication) and tirzepatide (marketed as Mounjaro and Yurpeak) are being prescribed by specialist doctors to eligible patients. These medicines work by mimicking natural gut hormones that help regulate blood sugar, slow stomach emptying, and reduce appetite and cravings. This helps improve glucose control and weight loss1

The growing use of these medications reflects the increasing awareness about the burden of obesity, which is a major risk factor for heart disease, type 2 diabetes, joint disorders such as osteoarthritis, fatty liver disease, sleep apnea and several other chronic health conditions.

This guide provides an overview of the GLP-1 and dual GLP-1 and GIP based medicines available in India as of 2026, including their approved uses, how they work, pricing, and the rules for obtaining them. If you want to understand how the GLP-1 hormone functions in the body, you can read our GLP-1 explainer. And if you are looking to compare the medicines themselves, start with the list below.

℞

Prescription requirement: All GLP-1 based medicines listed here are Schedule H medicines and require a valid prescription from a specialist in general/internal medicine, an endocrinologist or cardiologist. Every prescription is verified by a pharmacist before the medicine is dispensed.

This information is meant for educational purposes and should not be considered an offer to supply prescription medicines without a valid prescription.

GLP-1 based medicines available in India

There are six GLP-1 based medicines currently available in India. The table below compares each medicine by active ingredient, dosage form, approved indication in India, and approximate starting price2,3. Click on any brand name to open its full guide.

Medicine Molecule Form Approved use in India MRP from Prescription
MounjaroTirzepatideOnce-weekly injection (vial & KwikPen)Type 2 diabetes and chronic weight managementFrom ₹3,281Required
WegovySemaglutideOnce-weekly injection (FlexTouch pen)Chronic weight managementFrom ₹5,660Required
OzempicSemaglutideOnce-weekly injection (pre-filled pen)Type 2 diabetesFrom ₹5,660Required
RybelsusSemaglutideOnce-daily oral tabletType 2 diabetesFrom ₹2,972Required
YurpeakTirzepatideOnce-weekly injection (KwikPen)Type 2 diabetes and chronic weight managementFrom ₹16,406Required
Generic semaglutide brandsSemaglutideInjection or oral tabletType 2 diabetes Obesity / Chronic weight managementFrom ₹350/weekRequired
Prices may change over time, so always check the latest price before purchasing.

Before going further, keep these two points in mind:

The same medicine may be sold under different brand names

Ozempic, Wegovy, and Rybelsus all contain semaglutide2,3, while Mounjaro and Yurpeak contain tirzepatide. Yurpeak is manufactured by Eli Lilly and distributed by Cipla. It is another tirzepatide brand and not a generic version of Ozempic.

Approved uses vary between brands

Ozempic and Rybelsus are approved only for type 2 diabetes in India, while Wegovy is approved for chronic weight management. Mounjaro and Yurpeak are approved for both type 2 diabetes and weight management in patients who meet the eligibility criteria. Any use outside the approved indication is considered off-label and should only be decided by a doctor.

Want these side by side on molecule, approved use, dosing and price? Compare all brands

How GLP-1 based medicines work

GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) is a hormone naturally released by the gut after eating1. It helps regulate blood sugar levels, slows stomach emptying, and signals the brain to reduce appetite.

There are two popular types of incretin-based medicines currently used by doctors:

GLP-1 RAs

These medicines mimic the action of the natural GLP-1 hormone. Semaglutide (available as Ozempic, Wegovy, and Rybelsus) belongs to this group.

Dual GIP/GLP-1 RAs

These medicines activate both the GLP-1 and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) receptors. Tirzepatide (available as Mounjaro and Yurpeak) belongs to this group.

How do these medicines work?

Semaglutide (GLP-1 RA) works by copying the action of the natural GLP-1 hormone. It:

1

Increases insulin release when blood sugar is high while reducing glucagon release. This helps lower blood sugar levels.

2

Slows stomach emptying, so food leaves the stomach more slowly. This helps you feel full for longer and reduces spikes in blood sugar after meals.

3

Reduces appetite by acting on appetite-regulating centers in the brain. This makes you feel satiated with smaller portions and supports weight loss.

Tirzepatide (dual GIP/GLP-1 RA) works on both the GLP-1 and GIP receptors. In addition to the GLP-1 effects described above, activation of the GIP receptor further enhances glucose-dependent insulin secretion and may improve the body's response to insulin. The combined action of these two hormones results in better blood sugar control and greater weight loss in many people compared with GLP-1 receptor agonists alone.

Note: No medicine is better than another. Your doctor will recommend the most appropriate medicine based on your medical condition, treatment goals, and overall health.

Types of GLP-1 medicines

Injectable vs oral options

Most GLP-1 based medicines available in India are once-weekly injections that are given under the skin (subcutaneous) using a prefilled pen or vial. These include Mounjaro, Wegovy, Ozempic, and Yurpeak. The needles are short and fine, and the pens are designed to make self-injection easier.

If you would like to learn more about the medicines based on their active ingredient rather than brand name, you can read our guides on semaglutide and tirzepatide. Whether an injection or tablet is more suitable depends on your medical condition, current treatment plan, and what you are most likely to follow consistently.

What GLP-1-based therapy costs in India

The cost of GLP-1 based medicines varies widely, from lower-priced generic medicines to premium branded products. Approximate starting prices include:

  • Generic semaglutide: From around ₹350 per week.
  • Rybelsus: From ₹2,972 for a strip of ten 3 mg tablets.
  • Mounjaro: From ₹3,281 for a 2.5 mg single-dose vial. KwikPen prices range from ₹13,125 to approximately ₹25,781, depending on the strength.
  • Ozempic: From ₹5,660 for the starter pen, with a monthly plan generally costing ₹5,660 to ₹9,100 after the April 2026 price reduction.
  • Wegovy: Starting at around ₹5,660 per month, with higher strengths costing up to ₹16,400.
  • Yurpeak: Starting at approximately ₹16,406 for the starter KwikPen.

Prices may change over time, so always check the latest price before purchasing. The overall cost of medication depends not only on the medicine but also on the dose prescribed and the duration of therapy, both of which are determined by your doctor.

To know an approximate monthly estimate at your dose, use our GLP-1 cost calculator. Or open a specific brand's price breakdown: Mounjaro price, Wegovy price, Ozempic price, Rybelsus price and Yurpeak price. Remember the price of the product printed on the box is only part of the picture: your dosage and duration of treatment are the rest of the story (both of which are decided by your doctor).

Open the cost calculator

Are these medicines right for you?

GLP-1 based medicines are not suitable for everyone and should not be viewed as a quick solution for weight loss.

In general, these medicines may be considered for people with a BMI of 30 kg/m² or above, or 27 kg/m² or above if they have a weight-related condition such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, or sleep apnoea. However, your doctor will make the decision after assessing your overall health rather than relying on BMI alone. For people with type 2 diabetes, the choice depends on blood sugar control and the treatments already being used.

Obesity is now recognised as a chronic medical condition rather than simply a lifestyle issue. In December 2025, the World Health Organization released its first global guideline recommending GLP-1 based therapies for adults with obesity. Even then, these medicines work best as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that includes healthy eating, regular physical activity, and ongoing medical follow-up.

If you are unsure whether a GLP-1 based medicine is suitable for you, consult a doctor. They can review your medical history, current medicines, and determine whether treatment is appropriate. A valid prescription is required for buying all GLP-1 based medicines.

Safety and the rules in India

Schedule H, prescription only

GLP-1 based medicines are classified as Schedule H drugs and are available only with a doctor's prescription. This allows a qualified doctor to decide whether the medicine is appropriate, prescribe the correct dose, and monitor treatment as the dose is gradually increased.

In March 2026, the Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) advised that these medicines should be prescribed only by endocrinologists, physicians specialising in internal medicine, and cardiologists5.

Side effects

Like all medicines, GLP-1 based therapies can cause side effects. The most common include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation, especially during the early days of treatment5. These symptoms often improve as the body adjusts, and the dose is increased gradually.

When to stop and call your doctor.

Seek medical help right away if you have severe or persistent stomach pain (a sign of possible pancreatitis), signs of an allergic reaction, or symptoms of very low blood sugar (shakiness, sweating, confusion).

A word on authenticity.

PharmEasy dispenses only 100% genuine, cold-chain-shipped medicines from licensed pharmacies. Counterfeit GLP-1 products have been reported in India, including fake Mounjaro pens seized in Gurugram in April 20268. Check the packaging, seal, and batch number carefully, and avoid unusually cheap products from unknown sellers.

Latest GLP-1 updates in India

The GLP-1 market in India has expanded rapidly, reaching an estimated value of ₹1,906 crore for the year ending May 2026. Tirzepatide accounts for about 63% of the market, while semaglutide represents around 31%9. Some of the major developments include:

Mar 2026

The expiry of the semaglutide patent in March 202610, leading to the launch of more than 55 generic brands, including products from Sun Pharma, Dr. Reddy's, Natco, Glenmark, Torrent, Alkem, and Zydus.

Dec 2025

The official launch of Ozempic in India on 12 December 2025. It continues to be approved only for type 2 diabetes11.

Apr 2026

Price reductions for Ozempic and Wegovy in April 2026, making branded semaglutide more affordable (around ₹5,660 a month at the starter strength)12.

Dec 2025

The launch of Yurpeak on 10 December 2025, another tirzepatide brand manufactured by Eli Lilly and distributed by Cipla, with wider availability across tier-2 and tier-3 cities13.

GLP-1 tools

Educational tools to help you prepare for a conversation with your doctor. None of them prescribe or recommend a medicine.

Frequently asked questions

What are GLP-1 based medicines?

GLP-1 based medicines include GLP-1 RAs and dual receptor agonists, which mimic the action of natural hormones released by your gut after you eat. They help the body release more insulin when blood sugar is high, slow the movement of food through the stomach, and reduce appetite and cravings. In India, they are prescribed to manage type 2 diabetes and, for certain brands, chronic weight management.

Which GLP-1 based medicines are available in India?

As of August 2026, GLP-1 RAs and dual receptor agonists available in India include Mounjaro and Yurpeak (tirzepatide), Ozempic, Wegovy, and Rybelsus (semaglutide), along with more than 35 generic semaglutide brands introduced after the patent expired in March 2026. All of these medicines require a prescription.

Do I need a prescription to buy GLP-1 based medicines?

Yes, all GLP-1 RAs and dual receptor agonists in India are Schedule H prescription medicines. You need a valid prescription from a registered medical practitioner, and every prescription is verified by a pharmacist. These medicines should only be used under medical supervision.

Which GLP-1 based medicine is used for diabetes and which for weight?

Ozempic and Rybelsus are approved only for managing type 2 diabetes in India6. Wegovy is approved for chronic weight management, while Mounjaro and Yurpeak are approved for both type 2 diabetes and chronic weight management. Your doctor will recommend the most appropriate option based on your health condition.

How much do GLP-1 based medicines cost in India?

The cost of GLP-1 RA and dual receptor agonists varies depending on the brand and strength. Generic semaglutide starts at around ₹350 per week, while Rybelsus costs from ₹2,972 per strip. Injectable brands such as Mounjaro, Ozempic, Wegovy, and Yurpeak range from about ₹3,281 to ₹25,781, depending on the dose. Always check the latest price before purchasing.

What is the cheapest GLP-1 based medicine in India?

Generic semaglutide is currently the most affordable GLP-1 option, with prices starting at around ₹350 per week (for example, Natco's Semanat). Prices may vary depending on the brand, strength, and pharmacy. A valid prescription is still required.

Is there a GLP-1 tablet, or are they all injections?

Most GLP-1 RAs and dual receptor agonists, including Mounjaro, Wegovy, Ozempic, and Yurpeak, are once-weekly injections. Rybelsus is the only oral GLP-1 tablet currently available in India and is taken once daily on an empty stomach. Some generic semaglutide brands are also available as tablets.

What is the difference between semaglutide and tirzepatide?

Semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy, and Rybelsus) works by activating the GLP-1 receptor. Tirzepatide (Mounjaro and Yurpeak) acts on both the GLP-1 and GIP receptors7. Most of these medicines are given as once-weekly injections, except Rybelsus, which is taken as a daily tablet. Your doctor will decide which medicine is most suitable for you.

Are GLP-1 medicines safe?

When prescribed and monitored by a doctor, GLP-1 medicines are generally considered safe and have been widely studied. The most common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and other stomach-related symptoms, especially during the first few weeks of treatment. They are not suitable for everyone, so be sure to tell your doctor about your medical history. Seek medical attention immediately if you experience severe or persistent stomach pain.

How do I know a GLP-1 pen is genuine?

Always buy GLP-1 medicines with a valid prescription from a licensed pharmacy like PharmEasy, which dispenses 100% genuine, cold-chain medicines. Counterfeit GLP-1 pens have been reported in India, so carefully check the packaging, seal, and batch number before use. Avoid buying products from unknown sellers or choosing unusually cheap offers, as these may not be genuine.

References

1.Drucker DJ. Mechanisms of Action and Therapeutic Application of Glucagon-like Peptide-1. Cell Metab. 2018;27(4):740-756. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29617641/
2.Novo Nordisk. Ozempic (semaglutide) Prescribing Information. Silver Spring (MD): U.S. Food and Drug Administration; 2025. Available from: https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2025/209637s025lbl.pdf
3.Novo Nordisk. Wegovy (semaglutide) Prescribing Information. [Internet]. Plainsboro (NJ): Novo Nordisk Inc.; 2025 [cited 2026 Jul 27]. Available from: https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2025/215256s024lbl.pdf
4.Collins L, Costello RA. Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonists. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2024 [updated 2024 Feb 29; cited 2026 Jul 27]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK551568/
5.Press Information Bureau, Government of India.GLP -1 Drugs Use, Risks, and Regulation.New Delhi: Press Information Bureau; 2026 Apr. Available from: https://static.pib.gov.in/WriteReadData/specificdocs/documents/2026/apr/doc202641837401.pdf
6.Novo Nordisk Inc. RYBELSUS (semaglutide) tablets, for oral use; OZEMPIC (semaglutide) tablets, for oral use: prescribing information [Internet]. Available from: https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2026/213051s030lbl.pdf
7.Aamir AB, Latif R, Alqoofi JF, Almarzoq FA, Fallatah JO, Hassan GA, et al. Comparative efficacy of tirzepatide vs. semaglutide in reducing body weight in humans: a systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical trials and real-world data. J Clin Med Res. 2025;17(5):285-296. doi:10.14740/jocmr6231. Available from: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12151102/
8.Sadam R. India seizes suspected fake Mounjaro pens, says raw materials sourced from Alibaba. Reuters [Internet]. 2026 Apr 20 [cited 2026 Jul 27]. Available from: https://www.reuters.com/legal/litigation/india-seizes-suspected-fake-mounjaro-pens-says-raw-materials-sourced-alibaba-2026-04-20/
9.Acharya S. The GLP-1 gold rush is over: why India's generic semaglutide market is losing momentum [Internet]. Outlook Business. 2026 Jun 29 [cited 2026 Jul 27]. Available from: https://www.outlookbusiness.com/corporate/the-glp-1-gold-rush-is-over-why-indias-generic-semaglutide-market-is-losing-momentum
10.Trinh D, McDonald M. Formulary management of sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors and glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists: environmental scan [Internet]. Ottawa (ON): Canadian Agency for Drugs and Technologies in Health (CADTH); 2024 Mar [cited 2026 Jul 27]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK602920/table/t03/
11.Shivaraj DR, Nagarjuna D, Meghasri RS, Varshini J, Gowthami L, Bharath Gowda HG. Injectable semaglutide (Ozempic) for type 2 diabetes in India: translating global evidence into real-world practice after recent market entry. Int J Pharm Sci. 2026;4(2):592-605. doi:10.5281/zenodo.18485151. Available from: https://www.ijpsjournal.com/article/Injectable+Semaglutide+Ozempic+For+Type+2+Diabetes+in+India+Traslating+Global+Evidence+into+RealWorld+Practice+After+Recent+Market+Entry
12.Sanjay S. Novo Nordisk's Ozempic India price cut boosts obesity drug sales [Internet]. Bloomberg. 2026 May 8 [cited 2026 Jul 27]. Available from: https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2026-05-08/novo-nordisk-s-ozempic-india-price-cut-boosts-obesity-drug-sales
13.Cipla Ltd. Cipla launches Yurpeak® (tirzepatide) for the treatment of obesity and type 2 diabetes [Internet]. Mumbai: Cipla Ltd.; 2025 Dec 10 [cited 2026 Jul 27]. Available from: https://www.cipla.com/sites/default/files/Press-Release_Cipla-launches-Yurpeak_0.pdf
14.Mathew J. Novo Nordisk withstands stiff generic competition post semaglutide patent expiry in India in March; 26 brands from 13 firms launched. Fortune India [Internet]. 2026 Apr 16 [cited 2026 Aug 11]. Available from: https://www.fortuneindia.com/business-news/novo-nordisk-withstands-stiff-generic-competition-post-semaglutide-patent-expiry-in-india-in-march-26-brands-from-13-firms-launched/132778
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Disclaimer

The information provided in this GLP-1 Library is intended solely to educate and inform users about GLP-1 medicines, their uses, benefits, risks, and other relevant considerations. The purpose of this content is to help users make informed decisions and have meaningful discussions with their healthcare professional. PharmEasy does not intend to promote or recommend any specific medicine, brand or treatment.

The information provided is for general informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and should not be considered a substitute for consultation with a qualified doctor or other healthcare professional. Before starting, stopping, or changing any medication or treatment, please consult your doctor or qualified healthcare professional. Your doctor can assess your individual health needs and determine whether a GLP-1 medicine is appropriate for you.