Government tightens oversight of GLP-1 drugs, flags risks amid rising demand; key details

NEW DELHI: The Centre has issued a detailed advisory on the use, risks and regulation of GLP-1 receptor agonist drugs, as their popularity grows for treating type 2 diabetes and obesity.According to PIB, these drugs, commonly prescribed to regulate blood sugar and aid weight loss—must be used strictly under medical supervision due to potential side effects. Authorities stressed that GLP-1 medications are not over-the-counter products and can only be prescribed by qualified specialists such as endocrinologists, internal medicine experts and cardiologists.The government also announced that it has stepped up regulatory surveillance. The Drug Controller General of India, along with state drug regulators, is conducting inspections and has warned of strict action, including licence cancellation and fines, against any violations in the sale or prescription of these drugs. The advisory reiterates that diabetes is a chronic condition caused either by insufficient insulin production or the body’s inability to effectively use it, leading to high blood sugar levels. If left untreated, it can result in serious complications such as heart disease, kidney failure, stroke and blindness.Highlighting risk factors, officials noted that obesity, family history and unhealthy diets significantly increase the likelihood of developing type 2 diabetes.