India's drug regulator, the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO), has issued an advisory warning against the use of injectable products for cosmetic procedures without proper approval. The advisory specifically highlights concerns over the increasing use of GLP-1 receptor agonists, such as semaglutide, for aesthetic purposes like weight loss, which are not approved for such uses in India.
The CDSCO stated that these products, when used without medical supervision, can lead to serious side effects including pancreatitis, kidney injury, and allergic reactions. The regulator emphasized that any injectable used for cosmetic enhancement must be approved by the CDSCO and administered by a qualified medical professional.
This advisory comes amid a global trend where GLP-1 drugs, originally developed for diabetes and obesity, are being misused for rapid weight loss in cosmetic settings. The CDSCO has urged the public to avoid unlicensed practitioners and to report any adverse events to the nearest health authority.
