Best Medicines for Obesity in India
Lifestyle change in diet and activity comes first. Medicines may be added, alongside diet and exercise, for a BMI of 30 or more, or 27 or more with a weight-related condition such as diabetes or high BP. People of South Asian origin face health risks at a lower BMI.
Last updated: October 2026
Orlistat
Use: Blocks fat absorption. 30% of dietary fat.
Side effects: Oily stools, gas, oily spotting, urgent or more frequent bowel movements. It can lower absorption of some vitamins, so your doctor may advise a multivitamin taken at least 2 hours apart from it. Rarely, serious liver injury: tell your doctor about yellow skin or eyes, dark urine or pain in the upper right belly. Not used in pregnancy.
Side effects: Oily stools, gas, oily spotting, urgent or more frequent bowel movements. It can lower absorption of some vitamins, so your doctor may advise a multivitamin taken at least 2 hours apart from it. Rarely, serious liver injury: tell your doctor about yellow skin or eyes, dark urine or pain in the upper right belly. Not used in pregnancy. Blocks fat absorption. 30% of dietary fat.
Semaglutide
Use: GLP-1 medicine given once a week as an injection. Reduces appetite and helps you feel full. Used with diet and exercise.
Side effects: Nausea, diarrhoea, vomiting, constipation, stomach pain. Can cause pancreatitis and gallstones. Not for people with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid cancer or MEN 2. Stop at least 2 months before a planned pregnancy.
Side effects: Nausea, diarrhoea, vomiting, constipation, stomach pain. Can cause pancreatitis and gallstones. Not for people with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid cancer or MEN 2. Stop at least 2 months before a planned pregnancy. GLP-1 medicine given once a week as an injection. Reduces appetite and helps you feel full. Used with diet and exercise.
When to See a Doctor
See your doctor if your BMI is 30 or more, or 27 or more with diabetes, high BP or high cholesterol. People of South Asian origin should see a doctor at a lower BMI, because health risks start earlier and a BMI of 27.5 or more counts as obese for them.
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The medicines, Indian brands and advice on this page were checked against these treatment guides and product listings.
Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. The medicines listed may require a prescription. Dosage, suitability, and safety depend on individual health conditions. Always consult a licensed doctor or pharmacist before starting any medication.