Global Anti-obesity Drugs Market Overview
The Anti-obesity Drugs Market was valued at USD 12.27 billion in 2024. The Anti-obesity Drugs Market industry is projected to grow from USD 13.33 billion in 2025 to USD 30.81 billion by 2035, exhibiting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.0% during the forecast period (2025-2035).
The rising prevalence of obesity and increasing government initiatives and support are driving the growth of the Anti-obesity Drugs Market.
As per the Analyst at MRFR, the growing levels of obesity drive the market of anti-obesity drugs across the world mainly through the higher instances of individuals afflicted with obesity along with their increased health-related risk factors. Estimated as of 2022, approximately 16% of all adults 18 years and older globally are said to be obese, constituting a very remarkable increase over preceding decades.
This increasing obesity rate is caused by a number of factors such as sedentary lifestyles, inappropriate diet, and environmental causes that lead to weight gain. The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that as of 2016, approximately 800 million people globally were affected by obesity, including more than 670 million adults and at least 120 million children and adolescents. This figure has continued to rise over the years.
FIGURE 1: ANTI-OBESITY DRUGS MARKET VALUE (2019-2035) USD BILLION
Source: Secondary Research, Primary Research, MRFR Database, and Analyst Review
Anti-obesity Drugs Market Opportunity
FOCUS ON NON-SURGICAL OBESITY TREATMENTS
Non-surgical obesity therapy has become increasingly popular as a substitute for invasive treatments, providing patients with effective weight control measures with fewer risks and increased accessibility. The treatment mainly consists of pharmacological therapies, lifestyle changes, and medical devices, addressing patients who are inclined towards non-invasive therapies. Among pharmacological therapies, GLP-1 receptor agonists have been a revolutionary development, drastically changing the dynamics of obesity treatment. Eli Lilly and Novo Nordisk, the two top drugmakers, have led the charge in creating cutting-edge anti-obesity medications that are revolutionizing treatment approaches.
Novo Nordisk's Wegovy (semaglutide), initially intended for type 2 diabetes, has shown considerable weight loss benefits and has become popular because it has been able to achieve weight loss of 15% or more in clinical trials. Likewise, Eli Lilly's Mounjaro (tirzepatide) has demonstrated even higher weight loss efficacy by acting on both GLP-1 and GIP receptors, making it one of the most promising agents in the industry. These drugs regulate hunger and enhance metabolic health, offering a long-term solution to weight loss without the need for surgery. In addition, non-surgical methods involve behavioral therapy, medically supervised dieting, and endoscopic treatments like intragastric balloons, which decrease stomach capacity temporarily to facilitate weight loss.
As obesity rates increase and concerns regarding the risks of bariatric surgery grow, non-surgical treatments are becoming increasingly accepted, backed by research, regulatory approvals, and the pharmaceutical industry's ongoing investment in obesity therapeutics. The efficacy of drugs created by Eli Lilly and Novo Nordisk has again supported the viability and effectiveness of non-surgical obesity therapy, fueled industry growth and enhanced treatment possibilities for millions of patients globally.
Anti-obesity Drugs Market Segment Insights
Anti-Obesity Drugs by Treatment Type Insights
Based on Treatment Type, this segment includes Appetite Suppressants (Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors, Selective Serotonin 2C Receptor Agonists, Norepinephrine-Dopamine Reuptake Inhibitors (NDRIs)), Lipase Inhibitors, GLP-1 Receptor Agonists, Combination Drugs, Others. The GLP-1 Receptor Agonists segment dominated the global market in 2024, while the Combination Drugs segment is projected to be the fastest–growing segment during the forecast period. GLP-1 Receptor Agonists have become a cornerstone in the development of anti-obesity drugs, offering a highly effective solution for weight management. Initially designed to treat type 2 diabetes, these medications, including semaglutide (Wegovy) and liraglutide (Saxenda), work by mimicking the natural hormone GLP-1 to regulate appetite, food intake, and glucose metabolism.
Through mechanisms such as appetite suppression, increased satiety, and improved insulin sensitivity, GLP-1 receptor agonists have demonstrated significant efficacy in promoting sustained weight loss, with clinical trials showing reductions of up to 15-20% of body weight in patients. Their dual benefit of managing obesity and enhancing metabolic health makes them particularly attractive for individuals with obesity-related conditions like type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular risk factors. However, despite their promising outcomes, these medications require careful medical oversight due to potential side effects, making it crucial for healthcare providers to assess patient suitability for optimal results.
FIGURE 2: ANTI-OBESITY DRUGS MARKET SHARE BY 2024 AND 2035 (USD BILLION)
Source: Secondary Research, Primary Research, MRFR Database and Analyst Review
Anti-Obesity Drugs by Drug Type Insights
Based on Drug Type, this segment includes Prescription Drugs and Over the Counter Drugs. The Prescription Drugs segment dominated the global market in 2024, while the Over the Counter Drugs segment is projected to be the fastest–growing segment during the forecast period. Prescription anti-obesity drugs are a key component in the treatment of obesity, particularly for individuals who have been unable to achieve significant weight loss through lifestyle changes alone.
These medications are typically prescribed for patients with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher, or 27 or higher with obesity-related health issues, such as diabetes or hypertension. Among the most prescribed options are appetite suppressants like Phentermine, fat absorption inhibitors such as Orlistat, and GLP-1 receptor agonists like Semaglutide and Liraglutide. These drugs work by reducing hunger, enhancing feelings of fullness, or blocking fat absorption, helping patients achieve and maintain weight loss.
Anti-Obesity Drugs by Mechanism of Action Insights
Based on Mechanism of Action, this segment includes Centrally Acting Anti-Obesity Drugs and Peripherally Acting Anti-Obesity Drugs. The Centrally Acting Anti-Obesity Drugs segment dominated the global market in 2024, while the Peripherally Acting Anti-Obesity Drugs segment is projected to be the fastest–growing segment during the forecast period. Centrally acting anti-obesity medications are an important option in the treatment of obesity, targeting the brain's appetite-control centers to help manage hunger and food intake. By affecting key neurotransmitters like norepinephrine, serotonin, and dopamine, these drugs work to reduce appetite, minimize cravings, and support weight loss.
Prominent examples include Phentermine, a short-term appetite suppressant, and Phentermine-Topiramate (Qsymia), a combination treatment that boosts appetite control and energy expenditure. Bupropion-Naltrexone (Contrave), a combination of an antidepressant and opioid antagonist, works on the brain's reward system to help curb emotional eating and cravings. While these drugs are effective, they require careful prescribing due to possible side effects, such as cardiovascular and mood-related issues. They are most effective when combined with lifestyle changes and behavioral interventions for sustained weight management.
Anti-Obesity Drugs by Route of Administration Insights
Based on Route of Administration, this segment includes Oral and Subcutaneous. The Subcutaneous segment dominated the global market in 2024, while it is projected to be the fastest–growing segment during the forecast period. The subcutaneous route of administration is emerging as a key player in the anti-obesity drugs market, driven by its ability to offer sustained and controlled drug release. Subcutaneous injections, such as those used with GLP-1 receptor agonists like Semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy) and Liraglutide (Saxenda), provide more consistent blood levels and enhanced efficacy in weight loss and metabolic control.
These injectable drugs reduce appetite, increase satiety, and regulate glucose, offering a significant advantage over oral medications, particularly for patients with more severe obesity or comorbidities like type 2 diabetes. The subcutaneous route ensures better bioavailability and allows for less frequent dosing, improving patient adherence. While the method may present challenges in patient comfort and acceptance, the growing adoption of subcutaneous therapies reflects their strong position in the market, catering to patients seeking a more targeted and effective solution for weight management.
Anti-Obesity Drugs by Distribution Channel Insights
Based on Distribution Channel, this segment includes Hospital Pharmacies, Retail Pharmacies, and Online Pharmacies. The Hospital Pharmacies segment dominated the global market in 2024, while the Online Pharmacies segment is projected to be the fastest–growing segment during the forecast period. Hospital pharmacies play a crucial role as a distribution channel in the anti-obesity drug market, particularly for patients who require more specialized care or treatment regimens.
These pharmacies are integral in the distribution of prescription-based anti-obesity medications, including GLP-1 receptor agonists, centrally acting drugs, and combination therapies, often prescribed for individuals with severe obesity or obesity-related comorbidities, such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, or cardiovascular disease. Hospital pharmacies offer a highly controlled environment where patients can receive personalized counselling, precise dosing instructions, and tailored medication plans. They also facilitate the monitoring of treatment progress, providing a high level of clinical support that ensures patient safety and adherence to prescribed weight management protocols.
Anti-Obesity Drugs System Regional Insights
Based on the Region, the global Anti-obesity Drugs are segmented into North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, South America and Middle East & Africa. The North America dominated the global market in 2024, while the Asia-Pacific is projected to be the fastest–growing segment during the forecast period. Major demand factors driving the North America market are the rising prevalence of obesity and increasing government initiatives and support.
Government support and favorable policies also play a pivotal role in the market's expansion. Initiatives like Medicare’s proposal to cover anti-obesity drugs have opened doors for wider access to treatments, making these drugs more affordable and accessible to millions of Americans. Additionally, the Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) approval of new anti-obesity medications, including GLP-1 receptor agonists like semaglutide (Wegovy), has driven significant growth, with these treatments demonstrating considerable effectiveness in weight reduction.
FIGURE 3: ANTI-OBESITY DRUGS MARKET VALUE BY REGION 2024 AND 2035 (USD BILLION)
Source: Secondary Research, Primary Research, MRFR Database, and Analyst Review
Further, the countries considered in the scope of the Application Tracking System Market are the US, Canada, Germany, France, UK, Spain, Italy, Russia, China, India, Japan, South Korea, Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, Brazil, Mexico, Argentina, GCC Countries, South Africa and others.
Global Anti-obesity Drugs Key Market Players & Competitive Insights
Many global, regional, and local vendors characterize the Anti-obesity Drugs Market. The market is highly competitive, with all the players competing to gain market share. Intense competition, rapid advances in technology, frequent changes in government policies, and environmental regulations are key factors that confront market growth. The vendors compete based on cost, product quality, reliability, and government regulations. Vendors must provide cost-efficient, high-quality products to survive and succeed in an intensely competitive market.
The major competitors in the market are Eli Lilly and Company, AstraZeneca, GSK Plc, Gelesis, CHEPLAPHARM Arzneimittel GmbH, Novo Nordisk A/S, Rhythm Pharmaceuticals, Inc., KVK Tech, Inc., Currax Pharmaceuticals LLC, VIVUS LLC are among others. The Anti-obesity Drugs Market is a consolidated market due to increasing competition, acquisitions, mergers and other strategic market developments and decisions to improve operational effectiveness.
Key Companies in the Anti-obesity Drugs Market include
- Eli Lilly and Company
- AstraZeneca
- GSK Plc
- Gelesis
- CHEPLAPHARM Arzneimittel GmbH
- Novo Nordisk A/S
- Rhythm Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
- KVK Tech, Inc.
- Currax Pharmaceuticals LLC
- VIVUS LLC
Anti-obesity Drugs Market Industry Developments
January 2024: Rhythm Pharmaceuticals announced its plans to acquire LG Chem's rare genetic obesity drug, LB-54640, for up to $305 million. This acquisition is set to strengthen Rhythm's MC4R pipeline, which already includes Imcivree (setmelanotide), a U.S. FDA-approved treatment for genetic obesity disorders.
March 2024: Cook Medical and Bentley have announced a distribution agreement for the BeBack Catheter in the United States. In the coming months, Cook Medical will take over the commercial responsibilities for this Bentley product.
July 2024: Currax Pharmaceuticals LLC announced the approval of an additional manufacturing site for CONTRAVE/MYSIMBA in the European Union (EU) and European Economic Area (EEA). This new site doubles the current production capacity of CONTRAVE/MYSIMBA, ensuring continuity of supply and the ability to scale production as needed. An application for approval of this additional site by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) is planned for Q3 2024.
November 2023: The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Eli Lilly and Company's Zepbound (tirzepatide) injection, the first and only obesity treatment that activates both GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide) and GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) hormone receptor.
Anti-obesity Drugs Market Segmentation
Anti-obesity Drugs by Treatment Type Outlook
- Appetite Suppressants
- Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors
- Selective Serotonin 2C Receptor Agonists
- Norepinephrine-Dopamine Reuptake Inhibitors (NDRIs)
- Lipase Inhibitors
- GLP-1 Receptor Agonists
- Combination Drugs
Anti-obesity Drugs by Drug Type Outlook
- Prescription Drugs
- Over the Counter Drugs
Anti-obesity Drugs by Mechanism of Action Outlook
- Centrally Acting Anti-Obesity Drugs
- Peripherally Acting Anti-Obesity Drugs
Anti-obesity Drugs by Route of Administration Outlook
Anti-obesity Drugs by Distribution Channel Outlook
- Hospital Pharmacies
- Retail Pharmacies
- Online Pharmacies
Anti-obesity Drugs Regional Outlook
- North America
- Europe
- Germany
- France
- UK
- Spain
- Italy
- Russia
- Rest of Europe
- Asia-Pacific
- China
- India
- Japan
- South Korea
- Malaysia
- Thailand
- Indonesia
- Rest of Asia-Pacific
- South America
- Brazil
- Mexico
- Argentina
- Rest of South America
- Middle East & Africa
- GCC Countries
- South Africa
- Rest of MEA
| Report Attribute/Metric |
Details |
| Market Size 2024 |
USD 27.16 Billion |
| Market Size 2025 |
USD 32.89 Billion |
| Market Size 2035 |
USD 326.90 Billion |
| Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) |
25.82% (2025-2035) |
| Base Year |
2024 |
| Forecast Period |
2025-2035 |
| Historical Data |
2019-2023 |
| Forecast Units |
Value (USD Billion) |
| Report Coverage |
Revenue Forecast, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors, and Trends |
| Segments Covered |
By Treatment Type, By Drug Type, By Mechanism of Action, By Route of Administration, By Distribution Channel |
| Geographies Covered |
North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, South America, Middle East & Africa |
| Countries Covered |
The US, Canada, Germany, France, UK, Spain, Italy, Russia, China, India, Japan, South Korea, Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, Brazil, Mexico, Argentina, GCC Countries, South Africa |
| Key Companies Profiled |
Eli Lilly and Company, AstraZeneca, GSK Plc, Gelesis, CHEPLAPHARM Arzneimittel GmbH, Novo Nordisk A/S, Rhythm Pharmaceuticals, Inc., KVK Tech, Inc., Currax Pharmaceuticals LLC, VIVUS LLC |
| Key Market Opportunities |
·        Focus on non-surgical obesity treatments |
| Key Market Dynamics |
·        Rising prevalence of obesity ·        Increasing government initiative and support |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) :
USD 27.16 Billion is the Anti-obesity Drugs Market in 2024
The Prescription Drugs segment by Drug Type holds the largest market share and grows at a CAGR of 25.67 % during the forecast period.
North America holds the largest market share in the Anti-obesity Drugs Market.
Eli Lilly and Company, AstraZeneca, GSK Plc, Gelesis, CHEPLAPHARM Arzneimittel GmbH, Novo Nordisk A/S, Rhythm Pharmaceuticals, Inc., KVK Tech, Inc., Currax Pharmaceuticals LLC, VIVUS LLC are prominent players in the Anti-obesity Drugs Market.
The GLP-1 Receptor Agonists segment dominated the market in 2024.
