India is witnessing a significant rise in the use of weight loss injections, such as Mounjaro and Wegovy, leading to growing concerns among medical professionals. While these drugs offer new avenues for managing obesity and diabetes, their widespread and often unsupervised use poses potential health risks.
Rapid Adoption of Weight Loss Injections
Since their introduction into the Indian market, appetite-suppressing drugs like Mounjaro and Wegovy have seen unprecedented demand. Mounjaro, for instance, became India’s highest-selling drug by value within eight months of its approval, surpassing even antibiotics. This surge reflects the country’s escalating obesity and diabetes rates, with approximately 212 million adults affected by diabetes, accounting for over a quarter of the global total.
Medical Community’s Concerns
Leading healthcare professionals are raising alarms about the unregulated proliferation of these weight loss injections. Dr. Mohit Bhandari, a prominent bariatric surgeon, emphasized the necessity for stringent government oversight, warning that improper use could lead to severe complications such as muscle loss, pancreatitis, gallstones, and even blindness in certain patients.
Similarly, Dr. Ashok Seth, Chairman of Cardiac Science at Fortis Okhla, highlighted the dangers of unsupervised consumption, noting that thousands are using GLP-1 drugs without medical guidance. He stressed that these medications should not be viewed as quick fixes and are not suitable for cosmetic weight loss.
Legal and Ethical Implications
The promotion of prescription weight loss drugs on social media platforms has also come under scrutiny. Legal experts point out that advertising such medications is prohibited under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940, and the Drugs and Cosmetics Rules, 1945. Despite this, numerous posts by individuals claiming to be doctors have been found promoting these drugs, potentially leading to self-medication and misuse.
Economic Factors and Market Dynamics
The high cost of these medications remains a significant barrier for many Indians. Mounjaro is priced between ₹14,000 and ₹25,000 per month, making it inaccessible to a large segment of the population. However, with patents on drugs like semaglutide set to expire in March 2026, the market is expected to see an influx of more affordable generic alternatives, potentially increasing accessibility but also raising concerns about quality control and regulation.
Potential Health Risks and Side Effects
Medical experts caution that while these drugs can aid in weight loss, they are not without risks. Side effects such as nausea, vomiting, and muscle loss have been reported. Moreover, discontinuation of GLP-1 drugs often leads to weight regain, underscoring the need for comprehensive lifestyle changes alongside medication.
The burgeoning availability and use of weight loss injections in India present a complex scenario. While they offer promising solutions to the country’s obesity and diabetes challenges, the medical community urges caution. Emphasizing the importance of medical supervision, legal compliance, and lifestyle modifications, experts advocate for a balanced approach to weight management that prioritizes patient safety and long-term health outcomes.
