
Healthify shifts gears to incorporate weight-loss drugs, cash in on anti-obesity boom
The company is increasing its offerings to incorporate GLP-1 drugs such as Ozempic and Mounjaro – used to treat type 2 diabetes and, in some cases, obesity – and expects revenue from its GLP-1 companion programmes to exceed Healthify's main revenue in three to four years, Tushar Vashisht, co-founder and CEO, told
Mint
in an interview.
The healthtech firm, which started out as a calorie and nutrition-tracking app, expects demand for weight-loss drugs to surge in India.
'Adoption of the drugs will happen very rapidly as prices come down. What we are hopeful to do is to pioneer the companion solution," said Vashisht, acknowledging that immediate adoption may be slow. 'Eventually, I see a world where every hospital will have a medical weight-loss programme, but one thing common is that everybody will need lifestyle support."
The company has rolled out offerings that combine GLP-1 drugs (glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists) with lifestyle coaching as well as lifestyle coaching for those who are already taking the medicines. It has tied up with online pharmacy Tata 1mg, which will offer the medicines and diagnostic services.
Healthify's three-month programme includes 12 doses of Mounjaro as well as a nutritionist, trainer and dietician, and a GI kit, and costs
₹
65,000. This includes tracking key metrics on the Healthify app. The six-month programme costs
₹
80,000 and for a year, it is
₹
1 lakh, according to the platform's website.
The startup recorded its first profitable quarter in India in January-March and hopes to maintain the momentum this year.
'The idea is to continue to stay profitable. We're excited about this fiscal year in India being our first which is going to be profitable," Vashisht said, adding that the company is aiming for a 20% year-on-year revenue growth. 'GLP-1 is one of the levers to get that."
Healthify wants to address two key issues with weight-loss drugs: the side-effects that affect one's gastrointestinal system when taking GLP-1 medicines and the tendency of a majority of Ozempic or Mounjaro users to regain weight once they stop the drugs, requiring lifestyle interventions to maintain the weight loss.
Healthify entered the US market last year and plans to scale up its presence there this year.
'We've had good exposure to what's happening in the US… what we saw is that 20% of North American adults have tried [GLP-1s] already. And it has made a very significant shift in the way weight management is carried out," Vashisht said.
Indeed, dialogue around weight loss has shifted significantly in countries such as the US, where these drugs have been available for some years.
Traditional weight-loss players like gyms, calorie-tracking apps and wellness supplements need to revamp and adapt to the changing conversation or risk becoming obsolete,
Mint
reported earlier.
US wellness giant WeightWatchers, which was reportedly gearing up to file for bankruptcy, announced a partnership with Eli Lilly on Tuesday to provide easier access to Lilly's weight loss drug Zepbound.
'At the platform level, apps may need to integrate GLP-1 drug tracking. New KPIs (key performance indicators) will come over now," Kiran Mahasuar, assistant professor of strategy, innovation and entrepreneurship area at IMT Ghaziabad, told
Mint
. 'You will have to look at lean mass retention, satiety scores… now the dominant focus is on calorie deficit, which will shift to nutrient density tracking."
Awareness and demand for weight loss solutions are also shifting in India, the country with the world's third-largest obese population. Eli Lilly launched its weight-loss drug Mounjaro in India in March, priced at
₹
17,500 monthly for a 5 mg dose. Novo Nordisk will start selling its weight-loss drug Wegovy in India this year at competitive pricing, the company said.
Indian generic drugmakers Cipla Ltd, Dr Reddy's Laboratories Ltd, Lupin Ltd, Natco Pharma Ltd, Mankind Pharma Ltd, and Biocon Ltd are gearing up to introduce copies of semaglutide – an anti-diabetic and anti-obesity medication – in the market. Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd, India's largest drugmaker, is working on its own GLP-1 drug.
Globally, the GLP-1 market is expected to grow to $100 billion by 2030. In India, patients started using drugs like Mounjaro even before they were launched in the country, procuring them from overseas through the grey market. This market reportedly doubled in size to $3.6 billion in 2024 for patients with diabetes, according to a July 2024 report in the
British Medical Journal
.
The current pricing of the drugs, as well as allied programmes, makes them inaccessible for a large section of India's population. However, the drug prices are expected to come down, which will also lower prices for platforms like Healthify, Vashisht said.
The startup, which has boosted its AI play in the past few quarters, will start integrating more AI functions into the GLP-1 tracking and companion offerings.
The buzz around these drugs is also driving more awareness around weight loss for those who aren't eligible to be prescribed drugs or can't afford them.
'There is a clear trend shift there towards better engagement and usage," Vashisht said. 'Even the non-GLP-1 usage of tools like nutrition tracking is going to go up significantly."
The platform plans to launch its GLP-1 companion programme in the US in the next few months and scale it up there. Healthify is exploring partnerships with top hospital chains in India for a B2B2C setup. Other startups such as Elevate Now also offer doctor-led weight-management services, which combine GLP-1s with nutrition and coaching.
'The competition here will also go up in the next few months," Vashisht said.
However, Healthify is banking on its talent offerings – including coaches from the US, its doctor-led platform and brand value to hold its position, said Vashisht.
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The Hindu
3 hours ago
- The Hindu
Weight regain begins 8 weeks after stopping anti-obesity drugs, says study
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News18
8 hours ago
- News18
Just Started Mounjaro What Indian Patients Should Expect in the First 4 Weeks
Last Updated: Starting a new medication like Mounjaro (tirzepatide) for type 2 diabetes can bring hope, questions, and a few unexpected turns. For Indian patients newly diagnosed with diabetes and who have just been prescribed Mounjaro, this article will help understand what lies ahead over the next four weeks, both the positive progress and the typical hurdles. This human-centred guide gives a week-by-week breakdown of what you might feel physically and emotionally. We also address Mounjaro start effects, common Mounjaro side effects, and when to seek help from your doctor. Week 1: Getting Used to the Injection The first week with Mounjaro is largely about adjustment. For many patients, especially those who've never taken injectable medications before, the thought of using a needle can be daunting. But rest assured, Mounjaro is a once-weekly injection with an ultra-fine, pre-filled pen designed for ease. 1. What to Expect? • Minimal pain: Most patients report a slight pinch or no pain at all. • Injection sites: Common areas include the stomach (abdomen), upper thigh, or the back of the arm. Rotate the site weekly to avoid skin irritation. • First-day symptoms: Some patients report feeling unusually tired, a bit light-headed, or mildly nauseated within a few hours of their first dose. This is your body adjusting to how the medicine slows down digestion and begins regulating blood sugar. 2. Emotional Adjustment • There may be emotional anxiety about taking a long-term injection therapy. But many Indian patients find reassurance in the structure it provides. One injection a week means fewer daily reminders of the illness. • You might also feel hopeful, especially if your doctor shared promising data on Mounjaro's dual benefits for sugar control and weight loss. Tip: Track how you feel in a diary or on your phone. It can help during your follow-up visits. Week 2: Sugar Changes By the second week, Mounjaro start effects begin to kick in noticeably. The medication mimics two key hormones, GLP-1 and GIP, which work together to help your body release insulin when needed, lower the amount of sugar released by the liver, and slow gastric emptying. This leads to more stable blood sugar levels. 1. What to Expect? • Reduced post-meal spikes: You may notice that your blood sugar levels don't shoot up as dramatically after meals. This is especially noticeable after high-carb Indian foods like rice, parathas, or sweets. • Mild hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar): Though rare in the first few weeks, if you're on other diabetic medications like insulin or sulfonylureas, you could feel symptoms like shakiness, sweating, or confusion. Always carry a quick sugar source, like glucose tablets or a small banana. 2. Emotional Response • Many patients feel encouraged seeing better sugar readings, sometimes for the first time since their diagnosis. • However, some might feel frustrated if they haven't seen drastic changes yet. This is completely normal. Mounjaro works gradually and sustainably. Tip: Make sure you're checking your blood sugar at the times recommended by your doctor. Sharing this data helps guide future dose decisions. Week 3: Noticing Weight Shifts One of the most talked-about Mounjaro start effects is its role in supporting weight loss. By Week 3, subtle changes in weight may begin to emerge. 1. What to Expect? • Decreased appetite: You may feel full with smaller meals. Mounjaro slows down how quickly food moves through your stomach, which can keep hunger at bay longer. • Food aversions: Some patients begin to find oily or fried foods less appealing. This is common and often considered a benefit. • Initial weight loss: Many Indian patients notice a 1–3 kg drop in the first three weeks, especially if they've made dietary changes alongside the medication. 2. Emotional Impact • Feeling lighter, physically and emotionally, can boost self-esteem. • But be wary of pushing your body too hard. Some individuals may try to over-exercise or under-eat to speed up results. Always focus on sustainable lifestyle changes, not extreme shifts. Tip: Add a simple 20-minute walk post-dinner. It enhances Mounjaro's glucose-lowering and weight-loss effects. Common Side Effects Timeline Understanding Mounjaro side effects can help you prepare, manage, and stay on course with your treatment plan. While not everyone experiences side effects, here's a timeline based on typical patient experiences in India. 1. Week 1 to 2: Digestive Discomfort • Nausea: The most common early side effect. Eating smaller meals, avoiding spicy or fried foods, and staying hydrated can help. • Constipation: Due to slower digestion. Add fibre-rich Indian foods like sabudana, fruits, or soaked raisins. • Bloating or gas: Especially after eating starchy or fried items. 2. Week 2 to 3: Appetite & Taste Changes • Some patients find themselves repelled by previously enjoyed foods. This is temporary and part of the body adjusting to new hunger signals. • A metallic taste in the mouth or altered sense of flavour can occur but usually resolves within a month. 3. Week 3 to 4: Mood and Energy • As sugar levels stabilise, many people feel more energised. • But some might feel fatigued due to lower calorie intake. Ensure balanced nutrition, even with reduced appetite. 4. Rare but Serious Side Effects (at any point) • Severe stomach pain, especially if persistent or accompanied by vomiting, may signal pancreatitis. • Allergic reaction: Swelling, rash, or breathing difficulty needs urgent medical attention. Note: Consult your doctor immediately if side effects persist or become severe. Mounjaro is available in 2 sizes: Mounjaro 2.5 mg and Mounjaro 5 mg. Please check with your doctor for your needs. When to Contact Your Doctor? Starting Mounjaro is a commitment, not just to a medication, but to ongoing care. Here's when you should absolutely reach out to your doctor: 1. Persistent Side Effects If nausea, vomiting, or diarrhoea lasts more than 3 days or severely affects your food intake, speak with your doctor. They may adjust your dose or suggest dietary tweaks. 2. Unexplained Hypoglycaemia Even if you're not on insulin, notify your doctor if your sugar readings consistently fall below 70 mg/dL, or if you feel faint, dizzy, or confused. 3. Injection Site Reactions A little redness or mild swelling is normal. But if the area becomes very painful, warm, or starts to ooze, seek advice. 4. Emotional Changes Diabetes medications can indirectly affect your mood and energy. If you're feeling unusually low, anxious, or overwhelmed, talk to your healthcare provider. Mental wellness is just as important. 5. Missed Doses If you miss a dose and it's within 4 days of the scheduled time, take it as soon as possible. If more than 4 days have passed, skip it and continue with the next scheduled dose. But inform your doctor for further guidance, especially in the early weeks. top videos View all Conclusion: Embracing the First Month with Realistic Expectations Mounjaro isn't a magic cure; it's a powerful tool. Indian patients starting this journey should remember that the first few weeks are about listening to their body. Improvements in blood sugar and weight loss will come, but everyone's pace is different. Emotional fluctuations are just as common as physical ones, and both deserve attention. In a healthcare landscape where type 2 diabetes is increasingly common, medications like Mounjaro offer much-needed hope, especially when introduced early. If you approach the first four weeks with patience, awareness, and the right support system, you're setting yourself up for long-term success, not just in managing diabetes but in improving overall health. Always partner with your doctor for dose adjustments, side effect management, and lifestyle tips. And remember: you're not alone in this. Millions of patients across India are walking the same path, with the same questions, hopes, and courage. (Disclaimer: The above press release comes to you under an arrangement with NRDPL and PTI takes no editorial responsibility for the same.). PTI PWR PWR (This story has not been edited by News18 staff and is published from a syndicated news agency feed - PTI) view comments First Published: July 22, 2025, 17:45 IST News agency-feeds Just Started Mounjaro What Indian Patients Should Expect in the First 4 Weeks Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.


The Hindu
11 hours ago
- The Hindu
Survey of urban Indians finds few understand how GLP-1 weight loss drugs work
A survey conducted by the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine (PCRM), a non-profit organisation, has found that while many adults have heard of injectable weight loss drugs, most are unclear about how they actually work. The survey was carried online out with 1,087 respondents from Chennai, Bangalore, Delhi, and Mumbai. GLP-1 receptor drugs for weight loss have been getting a lot of attention recently, as more people turn to them for quick results despite concerns about side effects and long-term effectiveness. Only 18% correctly said that these drugs reduce appetite, the survey found. 26% wrongly thought they burn fat directly, and 20% believed they speed up metabolism. Another 18% said they don't know, and 18% said they had never heard of these drugs at all. 'Access to weight loss resources is a concern. In Chennai, only 43% felt they had access to effective options. Despite this, 93% had tried to lose weight at least once in their life. However, only 19% of those individuals were able to maintain that weight loss over the long term. This shows the lack of sustainable solutions,' said Zeeshan Ali, research program specialist at PCRM. As per the survey, many people have heard about the side effects of injectable weight loss drugs, but their understanding varies. Around 30% said they have specifically heard about negative side effects while taking these drugs, while 45% said they had heard something negative, but not in detail. Most felt that media conversations around weight loss focus too heavily on these medications, and 81% believe the media exaggerates their effectiveness. 'There's strong interest in plant-based diets as a safer alternative,' said Mr. Ali. As much as 87% of people in Chennai said they would prefer trying a plant-based diet, despite a majority of respondents from the city being meat-eaters, rather than injectable drugs for weight loss. If research showed that this approach could cause significant weight loss, 83% said they would seriously consider it. Cost and sustainability are also major concerns. At ₹15,000 per month, these drugs are out of reach for many. Research shows that after initial weight loss, the effects plateau around 60 weeks, and weight often returns once the drugs are stopped, according to Mr. Ali. 'When asked why they would consider switching to a plant-based diet, people cited reasons such as no side effects, scientific evidence of effectiveness, and long-term sustainability. Despite only 1% of India currently following a plant-based lifestyle, there's a strong need to spread awareness about its benefits,' said Mr. Ali.