Argus News - India Targets Misuse of Popular Diabetes & Weight-Loss Drugs

New Delhi, Apr 4: India’s drug regulators are intensifying scrutiny of GLP-1 receptor agonists, a fast-growing class of therapies for diabetes and weight loss, as demand surges and cheaper generics prepare to enter the market. The Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission (IPC), under the Ministry of Health, has been tasked with systematically collecting and analyzing adverse event reports linked to these drugs, strengthening post-marketing surveillance to quickly identify and address safety concerns.

The move comes as semaglutide, a key ingredient in popular weight-loss treatments, approaches patent expiry, paving the way for low-cost alternatives. While this could expand access, authorities warn it also raises risks of misuse. Recent enforcement actions by the Drug Controller General of India (DCGI) have already intensified inspections to curb unauthorized sales and misleading promotions. In recent weeks, regulators audited 49 entities nationwide, including online pharmacies, wholesalers, retailers, and weight-loss clinics. Violations such as sale without prescription, improper prescribing, and deceptive marketing were flagged, with notices issued and warnings of licence cancellations, financial penalties, and legal action for continued non-compliance.

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The Centre has emphasized that only qualified specialists-endocrinologists, internal medicine experts, and cardiologists are authorized to prescribe GLP-1 drugs. On March 10, manufacturers were directed to halt misleading advertisements that could encourage unsupervised use. GLP-1 receptor agonists work by stimulating insulin secretion and reducing appetite through delayed gastric emptying. While effective, health authorities caution about side effects ranging from nausea and vomiting to serious risks such as pancreatitis, kidney injury, and bowel obstruction.

India’s regulatory tightening reflects a broader effort to balance accessibility with patient safety as these therapies gain popularity. With generics set to reshape the market, officials are determined to ensure responsible use and safeguard public health.