In Hyderabad, India, soon-to-be brides and grooms are increasingly turning to weight-loss injections as a quick solution to shed pounds before their weddings. Wellness clinics in New Delhi, such as Klarity Skin Clinic, have introduced specialized packages like the “Mounjaro bride” plan, incorporating weight-loss injections alongside skin treatments and hairstyle makeovers. A promotional video from Klarity highlights a combination of guided nutrition, Mounjaro medication, and targeted workouts to prepare brides for their big day.
Several doctors have noted a surge in inquiries from brides—and some grooms—interested in weight-loss drugs prior to their nuptials. Many are specifically requesting Eli Lilly’s Mounjaro, the first GLP-1 medication approved in India for both diabetes and weight loss, which has surpassed Novo Nordisk’s Wegovy in popularity. Rajat Goel, a bariatric surgeon at Hindivine Healthcare in New Delhi, revealed that over 20% of recent obesity injection consultations come from brides who openly share their wedding timelines. However, he emphasizes that prescriptions are only given when medically appropriate, not for cosmetic reasons.
Weddings in India are traditionally elaborate events, often arranged by families with strong expectations regarding physical appearance and financial standing. This cultural backdrop exerts significant pressure on individuals to meet certain standards. Aditi, a 26-year-old finance professional from Mumbai, sought medical help in November after diet and exercise failed to achieve her weight-loss goals. She lost 10 kilograms (22 pounds) using Mounjaro before her February wedding, stating that feeling happy with her appearance was crucial to her confidence on the big day. Several other brides and one groom shared similar experiences but requested anonymity due to social stigma. Most discontinued the injections shortly after their weddings.
Both Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly launched their obesity drugs in India last year, with the market projected to reach 80 billion rupees ($851.79 million) by 2030. Mounjaro sales doubled soon after its introduction, becoming the top-selling drug in India. The recent expiration of the semaglutide patent has allowed Indian manufacturers to offer more affordable versions of Novo’s medication, increasing accessibility. These drugs are intended for adults classified as obese or overweight with related medical conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, or sleep apnea. Lilly stresses that Mounjaro is approved for specific medical uses and should only be administered under professional supervision.
In India, the monthly cost of Mounjaro ranges from 13,125 rupees ($139.50) for the lowest dose to 25,781 rupees for the highest. Novo Nordisk recently reduced prices for Ozempic and Wegovy, with Wegovy’s monthly cost varying from 5,660 rupees ($60.90) to 16,400 rupees. The company discourages self-medication or off-label use of semaglutide.
India faces a growing obesity challenge, with projections estimating over 440 million overweight or obese individuals by 2050, one of the highest numbers globally. Akshitha, who married in Hyderabad last year, lost 15 kilograms (33 pounds) with the help of weight-loss injections after her family doctor recommended them. She cited the hectic nature of wedding preparations as a reason for choosing medication over traditional diet and exercise, and she may consider using the drugs again after pregnancy.
With the influx of cheaper weight-loss drugs from local manufacturers, Indian regulators have expressed concerns about misuse and are increasing oversight of unauthorized sales and promotions. Dr. Swati Pradhan, founder of the Live Light obesity and metabolic wellness clinic, acknowledges the curiosity surrounding these drugs but warns against viewing them as quick fixes. She prescribes injections only to medically eligible brides who also commit to lifestyle changes for lasting results.
For 27-year-old Priya, a tech professional from Bengaluru, weight-loss drugs have been a response to body-shaming by prospective grooms’ families. She experienced rejection due to her weight and initially used Novo’s oral semaglutide off-label, losing over 12 kilograms before switching to injectable Mounjaro. Despite her weight loss, she continues her search for a suitable groom.
