Ozempic, a drug developed to treat type 2 diabetes but incidentally found to aid in weight loss, has swept most of the world’s health headlines in recent months. Its profound impact on significant weight reduction has captured global attention. With celebrities and influencers endorsing its use off-label, it has many people, now more than ever, asking what this drug could do for the average person. However, for Indian women, who contend with a distinct metabolic challenge, this is a trend that merits a closer, more nuanced look.
We spoke to , who explained the impact of Ozempic on the metabolism of Indian women.
“Ozempic is a GLP-1 receptor agonist and contains semaglutide. It works by copying a gut hormone that increases insulin production, slows gastric emptying, and sends feelings of fullness to the brain. For women with insulin resistance and related obesity and metabolic problems, I call these potentially validating mechanisms,” said Dr Agarwal.
Clinical trials (STEP 1 and STEP 5) show dramatic, sustained weight reduction, on average 15% over 68–104 weeks, with strong cardiometabolic benefits.
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What works in the West does not always translate seamlessly here. Dr Agarwal points out that Indian women, genetically and hormonally, have a different metabolic baseline. We often see abdominal fat gain, insulin resistance, and early onset of type 2 diabetes, even at lower BMIs. Asian populations lost slightly less (~7.3%); this may reflect baseline BMI differences and dosing responses, as per a 2024 study.
Common health conditions, such as PCOS exist, which make weight loss and hormones a tricky issue. According to a 2023 study, Indian and South Asian women show strong insulin resistance even at lower BMIs, and PCOS is widespread, a major driver of metabolic issues. Lifestyle plus insulin sensitisers are standard care.
Ozempic is backed by science, but it won’t work for everyone. “The drug is currently available in India for diabetes and for weight loss specifically. When used off-label without medical supervision, risks can range from gastrointestinal problems to pancreatitis and gallbladder issues. It is also one in which medication-induced weight loss is rarely maintained independently of changes in diet, physical activity, and behaviour,” explained Dr Agarwal.
The other considerations are cost and accessibility. Currently, Ozempic is expensive, and not many people have access to it. That raises questions about the equity of care: who can afford it, and who needs it.
For Indian women, the conversation about metabolism needs to shift away from quick-fix solutions. A comprehensive plan is essential for long-term management, including a diet that incorporates regional food preferences, an exercise routine that fits into a busy schedule, and regular checks for metabolic or hormonal imbalances.
Dr Agarwal concluded, "Ozempic may sound promising for certain categories of Indian women based on the increased weight and high BMI, such as women with diabetes associated with obesity or significant insulin resistance. The drug should be used with caution and under medical guidance. It's a tool, not a miracle."
Indian women should consult their physicians before embarking on such interventions, finding out if they fit into their health profile and long-term plans. Meaningful change is not just the product of trends, but also of care that is tailored and informed.
[ This article contains information provided by an expert and is for informational purposes only. Hence, we advise you to consult your professional if you are dealing with any health issue to avoid complications.]
