Hyderabad Doctors Raise Alarm Over Cosmetic Misuse of Diabetes and Weight-Loss Drugs
In Hyderabad, a concerning trend has emerged as doctors report a surge in the unsupervised use of popular diabetes and weight-loss medications for cosmetic weight loss rather than genuine medical needs. Social media trends and peer influence are driving many individuals to seek these drugs for quick aesthetic results, bypassing proper medical guidance.
Medications Originally for Diabetes and Obesity
Drugs such as Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro are designed to treat conditions like diabetes and obesity. However, they are increasingly being used off-label for cosmetic weight loss ahead of events like weddings and parties. With cheaper generic versions anticipated to enter the Indian market later this month, health experts fear this misuse could escalate further.
Risks of Unsupervised Use
Doctors highlight that many people are obtaining these injectable GLP-1 drugs over the counter or through online prescriptions without medical supervision. In some cases, gym trainers, beauticians, and acquaintances are casually recommending them, leading to serious health concerns.
Case Studies Illustrate Dangers:
- A 24-year-old woman from Madhapur, with a normal BMI of 24 and weighing 60-62 kg, took the drug for aesthetic purposes without medical advice. She developed gastric issues and other side-effects. Dr. Ravi Shankar Erukulapati, a consultant endocrinologist at Apollo Hospitals, emphasized that these drugs should only be used under strict doctor prescription.
- Another incident involved a 62-year-old patient who self-medicated before surgery and did not stop the drug a week prior. Dr. Shankar warned that this could have led to pulmonary aspiration, a dangerous condition where stomach contents enter the lungs.
How These Drugs Work
Ozempic and Wegovy contain semaglutide, which mimics the natural hormone GLP-1 to regulate blood sugar and reduce appetite. Mounjaro uses tirzepatide to activate both GLP-1 and GIP hormones, improving blood sugar control and aiding weight loss. Treatment typically involves weekly injections.
Impact of Cheaper Generic Versions
Currently, semaglutide therapy costs between ₹10,000 and ₹14,000 per month, with single doses around ₹7,000-₹8,000. With generics expected soon, monthly costs could drop below ₹5,000. While this may benefit patients with genuine needs, such as those with diabetes and obesity, doctors caution it could also encourage more people to misuse the drugs for cosmetic reasons without proper advice.
Benefits and Side-Effects
These newer drugs are more effective and safer than older weight-loss medications, which had limited benefits and serious side-effects. Dr. Srinivas Kandula, a senior endocrinologist at CARE Hospitals, noted that they can lead to 5-15% weight loss and help control blood sugar by increasing insulin secretion. However, unsupervised use can cause nausea, gastric discomfort, diarrhea, and vomiting, especially if higher doses are taken to speed up results.
Additional Health Risks
Dr. Anand Kulkarni, a senior consultant hepatologist, warned that while these drugs aid weight loss, they may also lead to muscle loss if not combined with proper nutrition and exercise. He stressed the importance of adequate protein intake, a balanced diet, and regular strengthening exercises.
Call for Stricter Regulation and Awareness
Doctors advocate for stricter regulation and better public awareness as these drugs become more accessible. They emphasize that while effective for diabetes and obesity, using them as a shortcut for cosmetic weight loss without medical supervision poses serious health risks. The medical community urges individuals to seek professional guidance and avoid falling prey to social media-driven trends.
