Introduction to GLP-1 Therapies in India
GLP-1 injectable medications have created significant buzz globally and quickly gained immense favor in India shortly after their introduction.
With glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) treatments for diabetes and weight management rapidly gaining traction in India, healthcare providers are intensifying their attention on what should precede the initial dose: a comprehensive diagnostic assessment.
The year 2025 saw the introduction of three eagerly awaited weekly GLP-1 injectable options in India—Mounjaro from Eli Lilly, along with Wegovy and Ozempic from Novo Nordisk.
Their availability has significantly transformed the approach to treating obesity and diabetes, leading to remarkable sales growth soon after they hit the market.
Mounjaro, launched in March 2025, became India's leading drug by sales value by October, with Wegovy closely trailing. Ozempic, which joined the scene later, is steadily building its presence.
Mounjaro features tirzepatide, whereas Wegovy and Ozempic utilize semaglutide. Prior to these robust weekly injectables, India had alternatives like liraglutide and low-dose oral semaglutide (Rybelsus), which were less intense.
How GLP-1 Drugs Function
Initially created for type 2 diabetes management, GLP-1 medications emulate gut hormones that control blood sugar levels, curb hunger, and delay stomach emptying.
Their success in aiding weight reduction has broadened their application well past diabetes treatment. Yet, specialists warn that these drugs aren't appropriate for all individuals and must not be prescribed without meticulous medical scrutiny.
Starting with Metabolic Health Evaluation
The diagnostic process usually starts by evaluating metabolic wellness. Endocrinologist Dr. Ambrish Mithal states that initial screenings like hemoglobin A1c and fasting plasma glucose are vital for determining glycemic control.
“These measurements assist in identifying if a person has diabetes, prediabetes, or standard glucose processing, and they act as a benchmark to monitor therapy effectiveness over time,” he elaborated.
Even for those seeking GLP-1 medications mainly for slimming down, these exams are critical due to the drugs' influence on insulin release and blood sugar management.
Kidney Function Screening
Examining kidney performance forms another vital part of pre-treatment checks. Indicators such as serum creatinine, blood urea nitrogen, and estimated glomerular filtration rate offer details on renal condition.
Although GLP-1 receptor agonists are typically safe for mild to moderate kidney issues and can even slow kidney disease advancement, spotting renal problems early helps doctors foresee complications like dehydration, which might intensify due to nausea or vomiting—a frequent initial reaction to GLP-1 treatment.
Liver Function Tests
Liver assessments are also standard. Elevated liver enzymes could indicate ailments like non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, which frequently co-occurs with obesity and diabetes.
While GLP-1 drugs aren't linked to liver damage and might even address fatty liver, unusual baseline findings could require enhanced surveillance or additional investigation.
