Those who need GLP-1 drugs don't take them, others do: Dr Anoop Misra

At the India Today HealthWealth Summit 2026, doctors raised concerns about the inappropriate use of GLP-1 medicines and stressed the importance of medical supervision when using these drugs to manage diabetes and obesity.

Obesity is a growing health concern in India, as excess body fat can increase the risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes and kidney disorders. With cardiovascular disease increasingly affecting younger people, doctors have emphasised the need for better awareness of weight management, early screening and lifestyle changes to prevent serious complications.

Speaking at the summit during a session titled Bimariyon ka Baap Motapa, Dr Anoop Misra, executive chairman and director at Fortis C-DOC, and Dr Ashok Seth, chairman of Fortis Escorts Heart Institute, discussed the link between obesity and cardiovascular disease. They highlighted the importance of looking beyond body weight to assess health risks, including hidden fat, waist circumference and other factors that can affect long-term health.GLP-1 DRUGS AND THE CONCERN OVER THEIR USE

The discussion highlighted concerns over the growing use of GLP-1 medicines for diabetes and obesity. Pointing to the gap between medical need and actual use, the observation was: “Those who need them don't take them; those who don't need them take them.”

GLP-1 medicines work by helping regulate blood sugar and appetite. They are used to treat type 2 diabetes, while certain medicines in this category are also approved for chronic weight management. Some have demonstrated cardiovascular benefits in eligible patients, and specific treatments have shown benefits for certain liver conditions.

Although these medicines can benefit suitable patients, they are not appropriate for everyone seeking weight loss. A doctor's assessment is necessary to determine whether treatment is suitable based on a person's medical history, weight, existing conditions and individual risks.

Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea and constipation. Patients may also require monitoring during treatment.

The discussion underlined the importance of using these medicines for the right medical reasons rather than treating them as quick fixes for weight loss. Alongside appropriate medication, balanced nutrition, regular physical activity and long term weight management remain important for reducing obesity related health risks.