New Delhi— India’s drug regulators are increasing scrutiny of a fast-growing class of medicines known as GLP-1 receptor agonists, amid concerns about their safety and potential misuse. These drugs are widely used to manage Type 2 Diabetes and are increasingly პოპულar for weight loss.
The Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission (IPC), under the Ministry of Health, has been tasked with closely monitoring and analysing adverse effects linked to these medications. The aim is to strengthen post-marketing surveillance and ensure that any risks are identified quickly.
This move comes as demand for such treatments rises sharply, especially with the expected arrival of cheaper generic versions. A key factor is the patent expiry of Semaglutide, a widely used ingredient in popular weight-loss and diabetes drugs, which is likely to make these therapies more affordable and accessible.
At the same time, authorities are concerned that easier access could lead to misuse. The Drug Controller General of India (DCGI) has already stepped up enforcement, conducting inspections of online pharmacies, wholesalers, retailers, and weight-loss clinics. These checks have focused on issues such as selling medicines without prescriptions, improper prescribing practices, and misleading advertisements.
Regulators have warned that strict action—including licence cancellations and penalties—will be taken against violators. The government has also clarified that only qualified specialists, such as endocrinologists and cardiologists, should prescribe these drugs.
GLP-1 therapies work by increasing insulin secretion and reducing appetite by slowing down digestion. While effective, health experts caution that they can cause side effects like nausea and vomiting, and in some cases, more serious complications such as pancreatitis, kidney injury, and bowel obstruction.
With usage rising rapidly, officials say tighter regulation is necessary to strike a balance between improving access and ensuring patient safety.
With inputs from IANS