New Delhi, Mar 24: India’s drug regulator has intensified surveillance across the supply chain of GLP-1-based weight-loss medicines amid rising concerns over their unauthorised sale and misuse, officials said on Tuesday. The Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO), under the Drugs Controller of India, has launched targeted enforcement actions following the recent entry of multiple generic GLP-1 drug variants into the market.
Authorities flagged growing availability of these drugs through retail pharmacies, online platforms, wholesalers and wellness clinics, raising concerns about unsupervised consumption and associated health risks. Experts warn that improper use of GLP-1 drugs, commonly prescribed for diabetes and weight management, can lead to serious adverse effects if not monitored by specialists.
On March 10, the regulator issued a comprehensive advisory to manufacturers, banning surrogate advertisements and any indirect promotional practices that could mislead consumers or encourage off-label use. In recent weeks, enforcement efforts have been significantly scaled up. Inspections and audits were carried out at 49 entities across the country, including online pharmacy warehouses, drug wholesalers, retailers, and wellness or slimming clinics. The inspections focused on identifying violations such as unauthorised sales, improper prescription practices, and misleading marketing. Notices have been issued to entities found in breach of norms.
Officials reiterated that GLP-1 drugs are approved in India strictly under prescription, and only by qualified specialists such as endocrinologists and internal medicine experts, with certain indications also permitting cardiologists to prescribe them. The regulator emphasised that patient safety remains paramount, cautioning that misuse of such drugs without clinical supervision can lead to severe complications.
Authorities have warned that surveillance will be further intensified in the coming weeks, with strict action, including licence cancellations, penalties and prosecution, against violators under applicable laws. Citizens have been advised to use weight-loss medications only under the guidance of qualified medical practitioners.
