The Drugs Controller of India has intensified regulatory surveillance against unauthorised sale and promotion of GLP-1 based Weight Loss Drugs. The move comes amid growing concerns over the increasing availability of multiple generic variants of these drugs in the Indian market, through retail pharmacies, online platforms, wholesalers, and wellness clinics.

 

The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said that these drugs, when used without proper medical supervision, may lead to serious adverse effects and related health risks. Taking cognisance of the situation, India’s Drugs Controller, in collaboration with State Regulators, has initiated a series of targeted actions to curb possible malpractices across the pharmaceutical supply chain and prevent unauthorised sales and use.

 

The Ministry noted that an advisory was issued on the 10th of this month, directing manufacturers to avoid surrogate advertisements and any form of indirect promotion that could mislead consumers or encourage off-label usage. It added that regulatory surveillance will continue to be intensified in the coming weeks, and non-compliances will be dealt with strictly, with actions including cancellation of licences, penalties, and prosecution under applicable laws.

 

The Health Ministry advised the citizens to use such medications only under the guidance of qualified medical practitioners. The Ministry said the drug has been approved in the country with the condition of a prescription by Endocrinologists and Internal Medicine Specialists, and for some indications, by Cardiologists only.