India has now entered a new chapter in obesity care that global weight loss drugs have entered the market. Danish pharmaceutical giant, Novo Nordisk launched a once-weekly injectable weight-lamp medicine vegovi, a blockbuster drug on 24 June.

The initial treatment phase at a price of Rs 4,336 per weekly dose, the vegovi contains semaglutide, a compound that mimics an intestine hormone to help control hunger and calorie intake. This is shown to help people lose more than 20% of their body weight in clinical trials.

To remain competitive with his opponent, the vegovi is launched in a convenient, ready-to-use injector, Flexipen format rather than traditional vials. The move is seen as a strategic response for the first launch of Maunjaro (Tirzepatide) by the US -based Eli Lily, which has been available in India since March.

But as it seems that Vagovi, all the drugs, are urging caution and clarity like all the drugs. These drugs are powerful tools, but not quick improvement.

‘Weight loss is a trip, not only one tablet’

Dr. and Head of Endocrinology and Diabetes at Max Healthcare. Embrish Mythl was highlighted that no drug alone can cause permanent weight loss.

Dr. Mithhal said in a special interview with indiahiatoday.in, “Weight loss is a trip. You cannot depend on just one medicine to reach there.

This includes a calorie-diet, exercise, emotional support and sometimes, drug. The process is individual, gradual, and involves close monitoring.

Food, fitness and psychology first

Dr. Mithhal states that the foundation of any weight loss program should begin with nutritional improvement.

“The diet should suit your lifestyle. It should have enough fiber, protein and water. You need to cut sophisticated carbs and high -fat foods,” they say.

Exercise, especially power training, are also important to prevent muscle damage, a natural part of rapid weight loss, whether it is obtained through drug, dieting or surgery.

Psychological readiness also matters. Many patients struggle with emotional food, denial or low motivation.

A mental health can play an important role in helping professional people commit to long -term changes.

When is a medicine like Wegovy prescribed?

Current guidelines suggest that people with more than 30 BMIs prescribe drugs such as semaglutides or tirzepetides, or between 27 to 30 if they have conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, or heart disease.

But Dr. Mithhal says that these numbers are only part of the story.

“BMI is a crude tool. Now we look at the structure of the body, especially the fat stored around the limbs. Even those who do not look fat can carry harmful internal fat and face high risks,” they say.

Which medicine works for what?

The selection between semaglutide and turzeptide depends on several factors, in which the patient’s body reacts, the presence of diabetes and tolerance to side effects.

“We have used oral semaglutide for diabetes over the years and have seen good results. Some patients were already reaching Vagovi from abroad. But we are still learning how the best work in every Indian population does,” Dr. Mithil explains.

Side Effects: What to expect

One of the most common side effects of GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy is the gastrointestinal discomfort, including nausea, swelling, constipation, and diarrhea.

“We ask patients not to panic. It usually gets better over time. You need to eat small food, include fiber, drink a lot of water, and after eating. Stay straight. Just do not lie down. A short walk will help,” Dr. Mithal says.

As the dose increases, some side effects may come back, but with monitoring and care, they can be managed, he says.

What about muscle loss?

Dr. Mithhal explains that muscle loss is part of any significant weight loss, no matter how it is received.

“The body is not so good to reduce fat only during weight loss. When you lose weight, you lose fat and some muscles. To limit it, you require strength training and adequate protein,” they explain.

Are these drugs safe for Indians?

Dr. Mithhal says that with proper screening and medical supervision, Vagovi is safe for Indian patients.

“We keep an eye on rare risks such as pancreatitis, but this is unusual. If you have its history, we avoid these drugs. Otherwise, they are quite safe when determined correctly,” he believes.

A significant turn in obesity crisis

There are now accessible with both Vegovi and Maunjaro, there are two state -of -the -art medical options in India finally in the fight against obesity.

“Obesity is not just a personal health concern. It is an chronic disease and a national epidemic that India cannot ignore. Honoring it, we are proud to declare that we are bringing Vagovi to Indians as a world-class and evidence-based medical solution with a world-class, state-art pen device facility,” on Tuesday.

But Dr. Mithhal is clear: “These drugs are designed for long -term use. They are filling a big interval in obesity care. But this does not mean that lifestyle takes a back seat. These drugs work with lifestyle, not instead.”