Regulatory surveillance will continue to intensify, with strict penalties, including license cancellations and prosecution

New Delhi: The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has clarified that GLP-1-based weight loss drugs, recently introduced in India, are approved strictly for use under medical prescription. The ministry has warned of strict action, including license cancellation, against any violations.

In an official release on Tuesday, the ministry stated that the Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) has intensified regulatory surveillance to ensure ethical practices in the supply and promotion of these drugs. The move comes amid growing concerns over the easy, “on-demand” availability of multiple generic variants across retail pharmacies, online platforms, wholesalers, and wellness clinics.

The ministry cautioned that the use of GLP-1 drugs without proper medical supervision can lead to serious health risks and adverse effects.

Taking note of the situation, the DCGI, in collaboration with state regulators, has launched targeted enforcement actions to curb unauthorized sales and misuse. On March 10, 2026, an advisory was issued to all manufacturers prohibiting surrogate advertisements and any indirect promotion that could mislead consumers or encourage off-label use, according to the ministry. 

In recent weeks, it said, enforcement activities have been significantly scaled up. Authorities conducted audits and inspections at 49 entities, including online pharmacy warehouses, drug wholesalers, retailers, and wellness or slimming clinics across multiple regions. These inspections focused on identifying violations related to unauthorized sales, improper prescription practices, and misleading marketing. Notices have been issued to entities found in default.

Emphasizing patient safety, the ministry reiterated that these drugs must only be used under the supervision of qualified medical practitioners. It specified that GLP-1 drugs are to be prescribed primarily by endocrinologists and internal medicine specialists, and for certain indications, by cardiologists.

The ministry further stated that regulatory surveillance will continue to intensify, with strict penalties, including license cancellations and prosecution, for non-compliance.

(For more news apart from “Govt Cracks Down on Unauthorized Sale of GLP-1 Weight Loss Drugs; Strict Prescription Rules Enforced,” stay tuned to Rozana Spokesman.)