The Indian government on Wednesday warned that businesses and individuals involved in the unauthorised sale of weight loss drugs, particularly GLP-1 medications, “will face licence cancellation, fines, and legal action.” The move comes amid widespread misuse and easy availability of these drugs across retail pharmacies, online platforms, wholesalers, and wellness clinics.
GLP-1 drugs, primarily used to treat diabetes, have recently seen the launch of multiple variants, including cheaper generics from Indian manufacturers. The government flagged concerns over these drugs being sold without proper medical oversight, prompting the Drug Controller General of India (DCGI) to intensify regulatory surveillance. In India, only endocrinologists, internal medicine specialists, and cardiologists are authorised to prescribe these medications.
The DCGI, in coordination with State Drug Controllers, has taken multiple steps to curb unauthorised sales. On March 10, authorities issued a detailed advisory to all drug manufacturers, warning against misleading advertisements or promotion that could encourage the use of GLP-1 drugs without a prescription. In addition, inspections were conducted nationwide across 49 businesses, including online pharmacy warehouses, wholesalers, retailers, and weight loss clinics.
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“These inspections spanned multiple regions across India and focused on identifying violations related to unauthorised sale, improper prescription practices, and misleading marketing. Notices have been issued to those found breaking the rules. Stricter inspections and surveillance will continue in the coming weeks,” officials said.
The government also highlighted the potential health risks of GLP-1 drugs when misused or taken without clinical supervision. Side effects range from mild issues such as nausea and dizziness to severe complications including pancreatitis, medullary thyroid cancer, allergic reactions, and low blood sugar. Pregnant women using these drugs risk developmental abnormalities in the foetus.
Experts further cautioned that unsupervised use can lead to rapid fat loss in the face, causing hollowed cheeks, wrinkles, sunken eyes, sagging jowls, and changes in the size of the lips, cheeks, and chin. Authorities urged the public to seek medical guidance and warned businesses that violations will be dealt with strictly under law.
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