GLP-1 should not be used as a quick fix for weight loss and diabetes management, warn experts
New Delhi [India], March 30 (HBTV): Top medical experts have raised concerns over the misuse of GLP-1 receptor agonists as lifestyle enhancers, warning that such practices could lead to shortages for high-risk patients.
GLP-1 receptor agonists such as Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro are prescription medicines intended for the long-term management of chronic conditions like obesity and type 2 diabetes. Experts emphasised that these drugs are not a quick fix for weight loss and should not replace healthy lifestyle changes.
Following the expiry of the Semaglutide patent in India, several domestic pharmaceutical companies have launched generic versions. However, experts noted that aggressive promotion of the drug has created risks for patients who genuinely require it.
Speaking to ANI, Dr Saptarshi Bhattacharya, Senior Consultant in Endocrinology at Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, said, 'Recently, the Government of India and the DCGI (Drugs Controller General of India) have issued a warning over the use of GLP-1. E-medicines have been available in India for the past 1–1.5 years, but the Semaglutide molecule has recently gone off-patent. GLP-1 is being massively promoted these days as a quick fix for everything. The government’s stand is clear—GLP-1 should not be used as a one-off quick fix for weight loss and diabetes management. These treatments have proven scientific safety and efficacy but must be used under medical supervision. A doctor’s opinion and advice are essential, and the drug should be prescribed either by an endocrinologist or an internal medicine specialist.'
He further added, 'If a doctor is prescribing GLP-1, they should have at least an MD in Medicine; otherwise, they are not eligible to prescribe it. This is important because these drugs have side effects that need to be monitored by specialist doctors.'
Regulators have also intensified action against the unauthorised sale of weight loss drugs.
Dr Monika Sharma, Senior Consultant in Endocrinology at Aakash Healthcare, said, 'This is an essential step to ensure the drug is used by the right patients. Excessive and improper use carries real risks, including gall bladder stones, dehydration, and protein malnutrition. Restricting availability through prescriptions by qualified medical professionals will help safeguard public health.'
Highlighting the long-term nature of treatment, Dr Anil Arora, Chairperson at the Institute of Liver Gastroenterology and Pancreatico Biliary Sciences, said, 'These drugs offer significant benefits, but they must be taken continuously, similar to medicines for diabetes or hypertension. Stopping them often leads to weight regain, with about a 70 per cent chance of relapse. While they were once priced between INR 16,000 and INR 20,000, the entry of generics after patent expiry has reduced costs to around INR 1,000, with multiple companies now offering them.'
Experts underscored that obesity is a complex medical condition requiring sustained supervision. GLP-1 drugs are most effective when combined with proper diet and exercise. Potential side effects include muscle loss, malnutrition, gastrointestinal issues, pancreatitis, and kidney injury. They should only be used under a doctor’s consultation. (ANI)