GLP-1 Made for US: Medanta Founder Dr. Naresh Trehan Warns Against Unsupervised Use of Weight-Loss Drugs The Indian government has intensified efforts to regulate the unauthorized sale of GLP-1 (Glucagon-like peptide-1) weight-loss drugs, which have surged in popularity following the expiration of key patents. These medications, originally developed in the U.S. for severe obesity and Type 2 diabetes, are now being sold in India through online pharmacies and wellness clinics without valid prescriptions. Renowned cardiovascular surgeon Dr. Naresh Trehan, founder of Medanta, has issued a stern warning against their unsupervised use, emphasizing the risks associated with the widespread availability of low-cost generic versions. Authorities have launched a nationwide crackdown, inspecting 49 warehouses, retail outlets, and wellness centers to address the surge in demand for these drugs. The crackdown follows growing concerns from medical professionals, including Dr. Trehan, who highlighted that the patent expiry has led to a flood of cheap, unregulated generic versions. Social media trends promoting rapid weight loss have further fueled the demand, prompting regulators to ban surrogate advertising and impose stricter controls on who can prescribe the treatment. Dr. Trehan explained that GLP-1 drugs were initially designed for patients with severe obesity and diabetes, working by suppressing chronic hunger and slowing stomach emptying. However, he stressed that these are not over-the-counter lifestyle products. The government’s heightened surveillance stems from the fact that the drugs have gone off-patent, allowing Indian manufacturers to produce cheaper versions. Dr.#dr_naresh_trehan #medanta #indian_medical_association #ima #glp_1_drugs
