Government Has Approved These Drugs For Obesity Or Weight Management
The Government of India has approved Orlistat, Tirzepatide, and Semaglutide for obesity and weight management, according to Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, Anupriya Patel. Responding to a query in the Rajya Sabha, Patel stated that these drugs were sanctioned by the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) and must be sold and used as per the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940 & Rules 1945.
Obesity is becoming a significant public health crisis in India. A 2021 nationwide study titled “Prevalence of Obesity in India and Its Neurological Implications” found that 40.3% of Indian adults are obese. The research, which analysed data from over 1,00,531 adults, highlighted regional, gender, and lifestyle-based variations:
– South India had the highest obesity rate (46.51%), while the East had the lowest (32.96%).
– Women (41.88%) had a slightly higher prevalence than men (38.67%).
– Urban residents (44.17%) were more likely to be obese compared to rural dwellers (36.08%).
– Those over 40 years old (45.81%) had significantly higher obesity rates than younger adults (34.58%).
– Higher education and lower physical activity were also linked to increased obesity rates.
The study further warned of obesity’s severe health implications, including a three-fold increase in the risk of Alzheimer’s disease (AD), with some researchers categorising AD as “type 3 diabetes” due to its link with insulin resistance. Obesity is also a leading contributor to type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and certain cancers.
In light of this obesity surge, the State Licensing Authorities (SLAs) have been tasked with monitoring the sale and distribution of Orlistat, Tirzepatide, and Semaglutide. The government has assured that SLAs will take strict action against any violations of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act.
While experts acknowledge that weight-loss drugs can be aiding medical interventions, they caution that reliance on pharmaceuticals cannot replace the need for lifestyle changes. With obesity levels rising rapidly, urgent public health measures are necessary, focusing on preventive care, physical activity, and awareness campaigns to curb the epidemic.
