- Semaglutide advisory warns against misuse and self medication
- Telangana DCA flags safety risks and online drug sales
Hyderabad: The Telangana Drugs Control Administration has issued a Semaglutide advisory warning the public about the safe use of Semaglutide based drugs. The advisory follows a surge in availability after the patent expiry of the drug.
The Telangana DCA said several Indian pharmaceutical companies, including major manufacturers from Hyderabad, have launched affordable versions of the drug. As a result, demand has increased sharply. However, officials raised concerns about misuse and unsafe consumption.
Meanwhile, the Semaglutide advisory clearly stated that these drugs are prescription only. Authorities warned that they should not be treated as over the counter lifestyle supplements. The DCA said, “The public is strongly advised not to self-medicate with Semaglutide for weight loss or any other purpose. The treatment must be conducted under the direct medical supervision of a Registered Medical Practitioner (RMP),”.
The advisory explained that Semaglutide is used for Type 2 Diabetes and obesity management. It belongs to the GLP 1 receptor agonist class and affects metabolic functions. Therefore, improper use without proper medical guidance can be risky.
The DCA further warned that misuse could lead to serious health problems. These include acute pancreatitis, kidney injury, severe gastrointestinal reactions, and acute gallbladder disease. Hence, doctors must evaluate a patient’s medical history and dosage before prescribing the drug.
In addition, the Semaglutide advisory cautioned people against buying medicines from unregulated online platforms. The DCA said such products are often substandard, spurious, or unsafe. It advised consumers to purchase the drug only with a valid prescription.
“The public is cautioned against buying from unregulated online platforms. Such products are frequently substandard, spurious, or unsafe. They should buy this medicine by producing a valid prescription,” DCA said.
Furthermore, the DCA warned pharmaceutical companies against surrogate advertising or indirect promotion. Officials said such practices may mislead consumers and encourage off label use.
The Telangana DCA has also asked the public to report illegal sale or promotion of Semaglutide formulations. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation to ensure safe use and prevent misuse of the drug.
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