Novo Nordisk, Emcure Pharma partner to expand access to obesity drug Poviztra® in India

Global healthcare leader Novo Nordisk India has announced a strategic partnership with Emcure Pharmaceuticals Ltd. to commercialise Poviztra® (semaglutide injection 2.4 mg) in India. The new brand, a second version of Novo Nordisk’s Wegovy®, aims to make advanced obesity treatment more widely accessible across the country.

Under this collaboration, Emcure Pharma becomes the first Indian company to receive exclusive rights to distribute and market Poviztra® for chronic weight management. The move is part of Novo Nordisk’s broader effort to expand access to its innovative semaglutide-based therapy, which has shown significant success in aiding weight loss and improving cardiovascular outcomes globally.

Wegovy®, launched in India in June 2025, is indicated as an adjunct to a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity. In global clinical trials, one in three participants achieved over 20% body weight reduction while using the drug.

“Obesity is a chronic disease affecting millions of Indians. Our partnership with Emcure will help ensure that more people have access to safe and effective obesity treatments,” said Jay Thyagarajan, Senior Vice President, Region APAC, Novo Nordisk. “This collaboration combines Novo Nordisk’s GLP-1 innovation with Emcure’s strong distribution and marketing expertise.”

Expressing optimism about the partnership, Satish Mehta, CEO and Managing Director of Emcure Pharmaceuticals, said,

“We are proud to introduce Poviztra® in India and bring one of the world’s most trusted GLP-1–based weight loss molecules to patients. With our deep local understanding and strong marketing network, we aim to make this treatment available to those who need it the most.”

The semaglutide molecule, available in once-weekly injections, has been used for nearly a decade and is supported by extensive global evidence — with over 38 million patient years of usage. Poviztra® will be marketed in five dosage strengths ranging from 0.25 mg to 2.4 mg in an advanced pen device for easy administration.

According to The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology (2023), India currently has nearly 254 million people living with general obesity and 351 million with abdominal obesity, underscoring the need for accessible and long-term treatment options.