India took a much-needed step in the fight against obesity and diabetes with the introduction of Mounjaro (tirzepatide), a drug developed by American pharmaceutical giant Eli Lilly and Co. Approved by the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO), Mounjaro is now available in the country, bringing hope to millions struggling with weight management. But can this medication truly address India’s growing weight loss crisis? And what are the potential risks involved? Keep reading to know.
Growing need for effective obesity treatment in India
With nearly 100 million Indians affected by both obesity and diabetes, the demand for effective treatments has never been more critical. Obesity significantly increases the risk of severe health conditions, including diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and cancer. While lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise remain the essential standard for weight loss, pharmaceutical interventions like Mounjaro have developed important interest due to their promising clinical trial results.
Mounjaro, a GLP-1 receptor agonist, works by slowing digestion and suppressing appetite, leading to reduced caloric intake and subsequent weight loss. Clinical studies have shown that individuals using the medication can lose between 16% to 23% of their body weight throughout 65 to 72 weeks.
Benefits and side effects of Mounjaro
Dr. Vanita Rahman, an internal medicine physician and weight-loss expert with the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine (PCRM), sheds light on both the benefits and limitations of Mounjaro.
She explains, “GLP-1 agonists medications work by slowing digestion and suppressing the appetite, thereby lowering caloric intake and leading to weight loss. However, after stopping the medications, most individuals regain the lost weight. This occurs because the drugs do not address the underlying drivers of obesity, such as the nutrient and caloric density of food, binge and emotional eating, and dietary habits. Instead, they primarily function by suppressing the appetite and once discontinued, appetite levels return to baseline and weight regain occurs.”
Dr. Rahman further highlights the possible side effects associated with Mounjaro. “Additionally, these medications are associated with significant side effects, including gastrointestinal discomfort such as nausea, constipation, and abdominal pain due to delayed gastric emptying. Some studies have also raised concerns about potential vision problems, suggesting a seven-fold increase in the risk of a serious eye condition that can lead to blindness. Furthermore, some patients may develop gallbladder disease, which could require medical intervention. Since these medications are relatively new, their long-term safety remains unclear,” the expert explains.
She further adds, “The high cost—Rs 14,000-17,000 per month—also makes them inaccessible for many individuals. Research has shown that nearly 2 out of 3 users discontinue the medications after 12 months due to a combination of side effects, cost, and limited effectiveness.”
A holistic approach to weight management
India’s obesity crisis is often linked with other metabolic conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. This makes it essential to focus on sustainable, long-term weight management solutions.
Dr. Rahman emphasises the importance of dietary changes over pharmaceutical interventions: “A whole-food, plant-based diet enhances insulin sensitivity, supports heart health, and promotes sustainable weight loss—without the risks and costs associated with medication. Lifestyle interventions, though gradual, offer the most effective long-term solution for weight management.”
Interestingly, the BROAD study found that participants following a plant-based diet lost an average of 12 kg in six months and maintained the weight loss at 12 months. Unlike medications, dietary changes address the root causes of obesity, including nutritional quality, food environments, and emotional eating patterns.
Dr. Rahman also warns against relying solely on medication without considering lifestyle modifications. She says, “Given the risks and limitations of GLP-1 agonists, patient well-being must remain the priority. Before starting these medications, it is crucial for patients to discuss potential risks and benefits with their healthcare providers.”
“More importantly, individuals struggling with weight management should be educated about the challenges and limitations of these treatments. While weight-loss drugs may seem like a quick fix, the evidence strongly supports lifestyle-based interventions as the safest, most effective, and sustainable solution to combat obesity and its associated health risks in India,” the health expert concludes.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor for any concerns or questions regarding your health or medical condition.
Thursday, March 20th
