The Government of India (GoI) on April 01, 2026, notified regarding the GLP-1 Drugs Use, Risks, and Regulation.
Diabetes is a chronic condition in which the body either does not produce enough insulin or cannot use it effectively, leading to high blood sugar levels. Insulin and glucagon, two hormones produced by the pancreas, work together to regulate blood sugar—insulin lowers it by helping cells absorb glucose, while glucagon raises it when levels fall too low. In type 2 diabetes, this balance is disrupted due to insulin resistance or insufficient insulin production, often accompanied by excess glucagon activity.
Several risk factors contribute to type 2 diabetes, including obesity, physical inactivity, unhealthy diet, and family history. Obesity, especially abdominal fat, significantly increases insulin resistance and is also linked to other non-communicable diseases like heart disease and certain cancers. Type 1 diabetes, on the other hand, is caused by inadequate insulin production and requires lifelong insulin therapy.
Both diabetes and obesity are largely preventable through lifestyle changes. Maintaining a healthy weight, engaging in regular physical activity, eating a balanced diet, and avoiding tobacco can reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes. Similarly, obesity can be prevented or reversed by reducing calorie intake, especially from fats and sugars, and increasing consumption of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
GLP-1 drugs are a newer class of medications used to treat type 2 diabetes and obesity. They work by mimicking a natural hormone that stimulates insulin release, suppresses glucagon, slows digestion, and promotes a feeling of fullness, thereby helping control blood sugar and reduce weight. However, due to potential side effects, their use must be strictly supervised by medical professionals, and regulatory authorities have increased monitoring to prevent misuse.
[Release ID: 2247459]
