NEW DELHI: Amid continued violations and the widespread misuse and easy availability of weight loss drugs in the market, the Centre on Wednesday warned that those who break the rules “will face licence cancellation, fines and legal action.”
In a detailed note on GLP 1 drugs, their use, risks and regulation, the Centre said multiple variants of weight loss drugs have recently been introduced in the Indian market, raising concerns over their on demand availability through retail pharmacies, online platforms, wholesalers and wellness clinics.
To prevent unauthorised sale, unsupervised use and other malpractices, the Drug Controller General of India has intensified regulatory surveillance, warning that GLP 1 drugs used to treat diabetes can lead to serious side effects if not taken under strict medical supervision.
The surveillance was tightened after various Indian drug manufacturers launched cheaper generic versions of these drugs, some of which were sold and promoted in an unauthorised manner, prompting the crackdown.
In India, these drugs can be prescribed only by endocrinologists, internal medicine specialists and cardiologists.
To ensure that people do not use GLP 1 drugs without a medical prescription and to curb malpractices, the Drug Controller General of India, in collaboration with State Drug Controllers, has taken several steps.
On March 10, a comprehensive advisory was issued to all drug manufacturers to stop misleading advertisements and any promotion that could encourage use of GLP 1 drugs without a prescription.
In recent weeks, 49 businesses were audited and inspected nationwide, including online pharmacy warehouses, drug wholesalers, retailers and weight loss clinics.
“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. Businesses that break the rules will face licence cancellation, fines and legal action.”
The government also cautioned the public about the side effects of GLP 1 drugs.
The misuse of GLP 1 drugs without clinical oversight can lead to severe health complications.
There are various side effects, both mild and serious, including nausea and dizziness, as well as pancreatitis and medullary thyroid cancer.
The drugs can also lead to rapid fat loss in the face. A person could develop hollowed cheeks, wrinkles, sunken eyes, sagging jowls and changes in the size of the lips, cheeks and chin.
They could also lead to allergic reactions, low blood sugar and developmental abnormalities in the foetus among pregnant women.