Mankind Pharma Unveils World's First Oral Small-Molecule Anti-Obesity Drug

Mankind Pharma, known for its Manforce condoms and Prega News pregnancy tests, has presented a formulation for anti-obesity medication that represents the first-ever small-molecule anti-fat condition drug. Almost every anti-obesity drug available today is an injectable peptide-type drug, such as semaglutide (Wegovy) from Novo Nordisk and tirzepatide (Mounjaro) from Eli Lilly.

Arjun Juneja, COO of Mankind Pharma said, "We have a pipeline of novel products, one of which is focused on GPR109, an agonist targeting weight management. With the success of semaglutide and other GLP-1 inhibitors, this molecule, which initially started as a diabetes treatment, has now pivoted towards weight management. We have seen very promising Phase 1 results and have recently started Phase 2 trials in Australia".

He added,"The results are expected by the end of this year. If successful, this product could become the first small-molecule drug for obesity treatment, as all existing options are peptides. Moreover, it would be the only orally available product in this category, with no food-related restrictions, unlike other treatments that require injections before meals. If successful, this drug has the potential to become a global blockbuster".

Global demand for obesity treatment has given a platform for Mankind Pharma's drug to possibly redefine weight management therapies. Other Indian pharmaceutical companies are also working on bringing anti-obesity options, either by proprietary formulations or generics.

Sun Pharmaceutical Industries is conducting clinical trials on its own obesity treatment. Dr. Reddy's Laboratories and Cipla are developing generic versions of Novo Nordisk's semaglutide in a more affordable alternative. Glenmark Pharmaceuticals has already launched Lirafit, a biosimilar version of liraglutide. Biocon intends to launch its generic version of liraglutide in the UK by November 2025 and is also seeking regulatory approvals from the EU and the US.

The competitive international scene is getting hotter. Novo Nordisk is aiming for a 2026 Indian launch for Wegovy, while Eli Lilly is expected to launch Mounjaro (tirzepatide) in 2025. Further innovation may help the treatment of obesity gather momentum for growth and transformation.