Global Anti-obesity Drugs Market Growth, Share, Size, Trends and Forecast (2025 - 2031)

• November 2023: Lilly announced the approval of Zepbound by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for managing chronic weight in adults with obesity.

• October 2022: Lilly received Fast Track Designation from USFDA for tirzepatide. The product is being studied for the treatment of obesity, or overweight in adults.

The Global Anti-Obesity Drugs Market is segmented by drugs into several categories, primarily orlistat, phentermine, liraglutide, and naltrexone-bupropion. Orlistat is a popular over-the-counter drug that works by inhibiting the absorption of fats in the intestines, thus reducing overall calorie intake. Phentermine is an appetite suppressant that is often prescribed for short-term weight loss, while liraglutide, initially developed for type 2 diabetes, has shown effectiveness in weight management by regulating hunger signals. Naltrexone-bupropion is a combination drug that targets the central nervous system to reduce appetite and food cravings. The market for these drugs is expanding as obesity rates rise globally, particularly in regions like North America, where lifestyle factors and high-calorie diets contribute to increased demand for anti-obesity medications.

Segmentation by product includes prescription drugs and over-the-counter (OTC) medications. Prescription drugs dominate the market, as they are typically recommended for individuals with higher degrees of obesity or those who have failed to achieve weight loss through lifestyle modifications alone. These medications are prescribed under medical supervision to ensure proper usage and minimize side effects. OTC products, on the other hand, are widely available and include medications like orlistat and dietary supplements that claim to aid in weight loss by promoting fat burning or suppressing appetite. The increasing availability of OTC options, combined with rising awareness about obesity and weight management, is expanding the reach of anti-obesity drugs to a broader consumer base, including those with mild obesity or individuals looking to manage their weight.

In terms of action pathway, the global anti-obesity drugs market is segmented into lipase inhibitors, appetite suppressants, and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) agonists. Lipase inhibitors such as orlistat work by blocking the absorption of dietary fats, thereby reducing calorie intake. Appetite suppressants, like phentermine, target the central nervous system to reduce hunger and help control food intake. GLP-1 agonists like liraglutide mimic the action of a natural hormone that regulates blood sugar and reduces hunger, making them effective for long-term weight management. The use of GLP-1 agonists is expected to increase due to their dual effect of improving glycemic control and promoting weight loss, making them particularly attractive for individuals with obesity-related comorbidities like type 2 diabetes. Geographically, North America holds the largest market share due to the high prevalence of obesity and the availability of advanced healthcare systems that support the use of these drugs. However, regions like Asia-Pacific are witnessing rapid growth in demand due to increasing obesity rates, urbanization, and rising health awareness.

Global Anti-obesity Drugs Segment Analysis

In this report, the global anti-obesity drugs market has been segmented by Drugs, Product, Action Pathway and Geography.

Global Anti-obesity Drugs Market, Segmentation by Drugs

The Global Anti-obesity Drugs Market has been segmented by Drugs into Class I Anti-Obesity Drugs, Class II Anti-Obesity Drugs and Class III Anti-Obesity Drugs.

The global anti-obesity drugs market is segmented into distinct categories based on the therapeutic classes of medications designed to address obesity, a complex and widespread health concern affecting populations worldwide. These segments, namely Class I, Class II, and Class III anti-obesity drugs, represent different approaches and mechanisms of action aimed at achieving weight loss and improving metabolic health.

Class I anti-obesity drugs typically include medications that act centrally to suppress appetite or enhance satiety through effects on neurotransmitter systems in the brain. These drugs are designed to reduce food intake by targeting pathways involved in hunger and appetite regulation. They are often prescribed for individuals with moderate to severe obesity who have not achieved adequate weight loss through lifestyle modifications alone.

Class II anti-obesity drugs encompass medications that primarily affect nutrient absorption in the gastrointestinal tract. These drugs may inhibit enzymes responsible for digesting dietary fats or carbohydrates, thereby reducing the amount of calories absorbed from food. By limiting calorie absorption, Class II drugs aim to support weight loss efforts and improve metabolic parameters in obese individuals.

Class III anti-obesity drugs represent a more diverse category that includes medications targeting metabolic pathways, such as those involved in energy expenditure, fat metabolism, or hormonal regulation of appetite and weight. These drugs may act on specific receptors or enzymes to modulate metabolic processes, enhance thermogenesis, or regulate hormonal signals that influence appetite and satiety. Class III drugs are often developed to provide alternative treatment options for patients who do not respond adequately to other anti-obesity therapies.

Each class of anti-obesity drugs has distinct mechanisms of action, efficacy profiles, and potential side effects, influencing their suitability for different patient populations and treatment goals. The segmentation of the global anti-obesity drugs market by drug classes reflects ongoing advancements in pharmacotherapy aimed at addressing the multifaceted nature of obesity and improving outcomes for individuals struggling with this chronic condition.

The classification of anti-obesity drugs into Class I, Class II, and Class III underscores the diversity of therapeutic approaches available to healthcare providers and patients in managing obesity. As research and development efforts continue to evolve, these segmented categories contribute to expanding treatment options and advancing personalized approaches to obesity management on a global scale.

Global Anti-obesity Drugs Market, Segmentation by Product

In this report, the Global Anti-obesity Drugs Market has been segmented by Product into Prescription and OTC.

The Global Anti-Obesity Drugs Market is segmented by product into prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) categories. Prescription anti-obesity drugs dominate the market, particularly among individuals with moderate to severe obesity, often defined by a BMI of 30 or higher. These medications are prescribed under medical supervision, and include drugs such as orlistat, liraglutide, and phentermine. Prescription medications are typically recommended for patients who have not been successful in losing weight through diet and exercise alone, or for those who are at risk of developing obesity-related comorbidities such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease. These drugs are more potent, have well-documented efficacy, and are typically intended for longer-term use to help individuals maintain weight loss over time. With increasing awareness of obesity-related health risks, demand for prescription anti-obesity drugs is growing, particularly in regions with high obesity rates like North America and Europe.

On the other hand, the OTC anti-obesity drug segment is expanding as well, driven by consumer demand for easily accessible weight loss options. OTC products, such as orlistat (sold under brands like Alli), are available without a prescription and are often marketed for individuals seeking to manage their weight through less aggressive, short-term interventions. These medications generally work by reducing fat absorption or acting as appetite suppressants and are seen as more affordable and convenient for people with mild obesity or those who are looking for a supplement to support their weight management journey. The availability of OTC weight loss medications also reflects broader trends in self-care and health management, where consumers prefer products they can purchase directly from pharmacies or online stores without the need for medical consultation. However, these products are typically less potent than prescription drugs and may be used for a more extended period, though they come with lower efficacy rates for substantial weight loss.

Both prescription and OTC anti-obesity drugs are seeing an increase in market penetration, but the types of patients they serve differ. Prescription drugs are prescribed for individuals with higher levels of obesity or those with obesity-related health issues, and these medications often come with more detailed medical guidance and monitoring. OTC products cater more to the general population, especially individuals with mild to moderate obesity who are looking to avoid the medical costs or oversight associated with prescription medications. Regionally, North America leads the prescription market due to its high obesity prevalence and healthcare infrastructure, whereas the OTC segment is growing in regions like Asia-Pacific, where rising health awareness and urbanization are increasing the adoption of self-care and weight management solutions. The global market for anti-obesity drugs is expected to continue evolving as consumers and healthcare professionals seek more effective, convenient, and affordable treatments for obesity.

Global Anti-obesity Drugs Market, Segmentation by Action Pathway

In this report, the Global Anti-obesity Drugs Market has been segmented by Action Pathway into Peripherally Acting and Centrally Acting.

The Global Anti-Obesity Drugs Market is segmented by action pathway into peripherally acting and centrally acting drugs, which work through different mechanisms to promote weight loss. Peripherally acting drugs primarily target the digestive system or the peripheral nervous system to reduce weight. A notable example is orlistat, which works by inhibiting pancreatic lipase, an enzyme responsible for the breakdown of dietary fats in the intestines. By blocking fat absorption, orlistat helps reduce calorie intake, leading to weight loss. These drugs generally act locally in the gastrointestinal tract and do not have significant effects on the brain or central nervous system. They are often considered less risky than centrally acting drugs due to their lower potential for causing systemic side effects, making them a popular choice for patients who prefer non-invasive weight loss solutions. However, their efficacy is generally limited compared to centrally acting drugs, as they primarily target fat absorption without addressing appetite control.

Centrally acting drugs work by influencing the central nervous system, particularly areas of the brain involved in regulating hunger and satiety. Phentermine, liraglutide, and naltrexone-bupropion are examples of centrally acting drugs that act on neurotransmitters in the brain to suppress appetite and reduce food intake. Phentermine is an appetite suppressant that stimulates the release of norepinephrine, a neurotransmitter that reduces hunger. Liraglutide, a GLP-1 receptor agonist, mimics the natural hormone involved in regulating blood sugar and hunger, helping to reduce appetite and promote weight loss. Naltrexone-bupropion, a combination of two drugs, works by altering the brain's reward pathways to reduce cravings and control appetite. These drugs generally offer more significant weight loss results but come with a higher risk of side effects, such as increased heart rate, anxiety, and gastrointestinal disturbances. As a result, centrally acting drugs are typically prescribed for individuals with higher levels of obesity or those with obesity-related health conditions.

Both peripherally acting and centrally acting drugs play vital roles in the global anti-obesity drugs market, serving different patient needs based on the severity of obesity and the desired approach to weight loss. Peripherally acting drugs are preferred for those seeking a more straightforward, lower-risk solution, while centrally acting drugs are often recommended for patients with more severe obesity or comorbid conditions, where stronger appetite suppression and significant weight loss are needed. The choice between these drugs depends on factors such as individual health conditions, side effects, and personal preferences. As the global obesity epidemic continues to rise, the demand for both types of anti-obesity drugs is expected to grow, with innovations in drug development aiming to improve the efficacy and safety profiles of these treatments. Geographically, centrally acting drugs are particularly popular in regions like North America and Europe, where the prevalence of obesity is high, and there is greater access to healthcare and prescription medications. Peripherally acting drugs, however, are gaining traction in regions with increasing health awareness and growing obesity concerns, such as Asia-Pacific and Latin America.

Global Anti-obesity Drugs Market, Segmentation by Geography

In this report, the Global Anti-obesity Drugs Market has been segmented by Geography into five regions; North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa and Latin America.

Global Anti-obesity Drugs Market Share (%), by Geographical Region, 2024

The global anti-obesity drugs market is segmented based on the mechanism of action (MOA), categorizing medications according to their specific biological targets and therapeutic effects in addressing obesity. This segmentation is essential for understanding how different drugs interact with the body to achieve weight loss and improve metabolic health in individuals struggling with obesity.

One significant category within this segmentation includes drugs that act centrally to regulate appetite and satiety. These medications target neurotransmitter systems in the brain, such as serotonin and norepinephrine pathways, to suppress appetite or enhance feelings of fullness. By modifying neural signals related to hunger and food intake, centrally acting drugs help individuals achieve caloric restriction and support sustainable weight loss efforts.

Another important segment comprises drugs that influence nutrient absorption in the gastrointestinal tract. These medications typically inhibit enzymes responsible for breaking down dietary fats or carbohydrates, thereby reducing the amount of calories absorbed from food. By limiting calorie absorption, gastrointestinal agents contribute to weight management by lowering overall energy intake and improving metabolic outcomes in obese patients.

The market includes drugs that affect metabolic processes related to energy expenditure and fat metabolism. These drugs may target specific receptors or enzymes involved in regulating metabolic rate, thermogenesis, or lipid metabolism. By enhancing energy expenditure or promoting fat breakdown, metabolic agents aim to shift the body's energy balance towards weight loss and metabolic health improvement.

The segmentation by mechanism of action encompasses hormonal therapies that modulate appetite-regulating hormones such as leptin, ghrelin, and insulin. Hormonal drugs may mimic or antagonize these hormones' effects to regulate appetite, energy balance, and fat storage. This approach addresses the hormonal imbalances often observed in obese individuals and offers potential therapeutic avenues for managing obesity-related metabolic dysregulation.

The segmentation of the global anti-obesity drugs market by mechanism of action highlights the diversity of therapeutic approaches available to healthcare providers and patients. By targeting specific biological pathways underlying obesity, these medications aim to address the complex interplay of genetic, environmental, and behavioral factors contributing to weight gain and metabolic dysfunction. Continued research and development in each MOA category contribute to advancing treatment options and optimizing outcomes for individuals affected by obesity worldwide.

This report provides an in depth analysis of various factors that impact the dynamics of Global Anti-obesity Drugs Market. These factors include; Market Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities Analysis.

Drivers, Restraints and Opportunity Analysis

Drivers

• Increasing prevalence of obesity worldwide
• Technological advancements in drug development
• Rising awareness about obesity-related health risks

• Growing healthcare expenditure - Growing healthcare expenditure is a significant driver influencing the global anti-obesity drugs market. As healthcare spending continues to increase globally, there is a corresponding rise in investments allocated towards addressing chronic diseases, including obesity. The economic burden of obesity-related healthcare costs, such as the management of comorbidities like diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and certain cancers, underscores the need for effective pharmaceutical interventions.

  Governments and healthcare systems worldwide are increasingly prioritizing initiatives aimed at curbing the rising prevalence of obesity and its associated complications. This includes funding for research and development in innovative treatments, healthcare infrastructure improvements to support obesity management programs, and public health campaigns to promote healthy lifestyles and weight management.

  Indirect costs related to lost productivity and absenteeism due to obesity-related illnesses further emphasize the economic impact of the disease. Pharmaceutical companies and healthcare providers are responding to these challenges by investing in the development of new anti-obesity drugs that offer improved efficacy, safety, and patient adherence compared to traditional treatments.

Restraints

• High development costs and lengthy approval processes
• Limited long-term efficacy and safety data for new drugs
• Challenges in patient adherence to treatment regimens

• Regulatory concerns over potential side effects - Regulatory concerns over potential side effects pose significant challenges to the global anti-obesity drugs market, influencing both drug development and market access. As regulatory agencies prioritize patient safety, they require robust evidence of efficacy and safety from pharmaceutical companies seeking approval for anti-obesity medications.

  One of the primary concerns revolves around the potential adverse effects associated with anti-obesity drugs. Given the complexity of obesity as a chronic condition and the diverse physiological responses to medications, regulatory bodies scrutinize clinical trial data extensively to assess the risk-benefit profile of new drugs. Concerns may arise regarding cardiovascular risks, psychiatric effects, or other unexpected adverse reactions that could outweigh the benefits of weight loss.

  Regulatory agencies such as the FDA in the United States and the EMA in Europe impose stringent requirements for post-marketing surveillance and risk management plans for approved anti-obesity drugs. These measures aim to monitor and mitigate potential side effects that may emerge once medications are used in broader patient populations and real-world settings.

  The stringent regulatory environment contributes to lengthy and costly drug development processes for anti-obesity drugs. Pharmaceutical companies must conduct extensive preclinical and clinical studies to demonstrate safety and efficacy, often resulting in delays in market entry and increased development costs. Moreover, regulatory uncertainties or rejections can lead to setbacks and discourage investment in anti-obesity drug research and development.

  To address these challenges, pharmaceutical companies are increasingly focusing on innovative approaches such as developing drugs with improved safety profiles, conducting rigorous pharmacovigilance studies post-approval, and engaging in proactive communication with regulatory authorities to address concerns early in the development process.

Opportunity

• Development of novel mechanisms of action for obesity treatment
• Expansion in emerging markets with high obesity rates
• Personalized medicine approaches in obesity management

• Strategic partnerships and collaborations - Strategic partnerships and collaborations play a pivotal role in shaping the landscape of the global anti-obesity drugs market, fostering innovation, expanding market reach, and addressing complex challenges in drug development and commercialization.

  One significant benefit of strategic partnerships is the pooling of resources and expertise among pharmaceutical companies, academic institutions, and research organizations. These collaborations enable shared investments in research and development (R&D) efforts, accelerating the discovery of novel anti-obesity therapies. By leveraging complementary strengths and capabilities, partners can conduct more extensive preclinical and clinical studies, explore new therapeutic targets, and optimize drug formulation and delivery systems.

  Strategic partnerships facilitate access to diverse pipelines of potential drug candidates. For pharmaceutical companies specializing in specific therapeutic areas or technologies, collaborations provide opportunities to broaden their portfolio with promising anti-obesity drugs. This diversification strategy reduces dependency on internal R&D efforts alone and enhances the likelihood of bringing innovative treatments to market more efficiently.

  Partnerships also play a crucial role in navigating regulatory pathways and market access challenges. Collaborating entities can share insights into regulatory requirements across different regions, coordinate submissions, and develop comprehensive market access strategies. This collaborative approach helps streamline the approval process for new anti-obesity drugs, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards while accelerating time-to-market.

  Strategic partnerships enable access to global markets by leveraging partners' established distribution networks, market expertise, and local market knowledge. This is particularly advantageous for expanding into emerging markets where obesity rates are rising, but access to healthcare and regulatory landscapes may present barriers without local expertise.

  Partnerships and collaborations contribute to fostering innovation in patient-centric solutions. By integrating diverse perspectives and expertise, stakeholders can develop comprehensive obesity management programs that combine pharmacotherapy with lifestyle interventions, digital health technologies, and personalized medicine approaches. These integrated solutions aim to improve patient outcomes, enhance treatment adherence, and address the multifaceted nature of obesity as a chronic disease.

Key players in Global Anti-obesity Drugs Market include :

• Vendors covered
• Vendor classification
• Market positioning of vendors
• Eisai
• Novo Nordisk
• Vivus
• Pfizer
• Celgene

In this report, the profile of each market player provides following information:

• Company Overview and Product Portfolio
• Key Developments
• Financial Overview
• Strategies
• Company SWOT Analysis