Namita Thapar, the Emcure Pharma Executive Director and one of the judges on Shark Tank India, recently voiced her concerns over the rising trend of using GLP-1 weight loss medications, which have become popular despite being intended for diabetic patients. During an episode of Shark Tank India Season 4, Thapar highlighted how these medications are being used illegally at parties, spas, and other social gatherings, sparking safety concerns.
The Rising Craze for GLP-1 Medications
The episode saw a pitch from siblings Shreyansh Chauhan and Anousha Chauhan, founders of Beautywise, a Delhi-based company that markets supplements for skin, hair, and body health. The duo revealed their plan to venture into the slimming solutions market, seeking an investment of ₹1 crore in exchange for 1.5% equity in their company, valued at over ₹66 crore.
However, the pitch took a sharp turn when Namita Thapar addressed the weight loss claims made by Beautywise. Referring to the increasing popularity of GLP-1 (Glucagon-Like Peptide-1), a hormone known for regulating blood sugar and suppressing appetite, Thapar expressed her discomfort. “There is a huge craze for GLP-1,” she said. “People are getting it from the black market. It is actually meant for diabetics, but now at kitty parties, weddings, spas, and parties, it is being injected into people just like that. And it has side effects on those who don’t need it.”
Thapar also emphasized the need for more responsible marketing in the weight loss industry. “Weight loss has become such a craze in this country. So when you claim to give your consumers weight loss with your product, I don’t think you can do that. Weight management is a more truthful and authentic approach,” she added.
The Dangers of Unsupervised Use of Weight Loss Medications
GLP-1 medications, such as Ozempic and Wegovy, have gained significant attention for their effectiveness in weight loss, particularly for people with obesity. However, experts caution that these medications should only be prescribed and administered under medical supervision, especially for individuals who do not have diabetes. The unauthorized use of such medications—whether through black market sources or social gatherings—can lead to severe side effects, including nausea, dehydration, and potentially more serious complications.
While many celebrities have openly discussed using GLP-1 medications as part of their weight loss journey, Thapar’s comments serve as a reminder that such treatments should be approached with caution and used in conjunction with a balanced diet and regular exercise for sustainable results.
Shreyansh Chauhan Responds to Criticism
Despite the concerns raised by Thapar, Shreyansh Chauhan defended his company’s product, claiming that it had been tested in multiple trials and shown to be effective not only for weight loss but also for reducing belly fat. However, Thapar, drawing from her extensive experience running the derma division at Emcure, pointed out that the high cost of the slimming product—which retails for ₹3000, with ₹1800 going to clinics as an incentive—would likely result in unsustainable sales if the margin were reduced.
The Need for Responsible Weight Loss Solutions
Thapar’s intervention underscores the need for a more cautious approach to the booming weight loss market in India. While slimming solutions can be effective when used properly, the rising popularity of unregulated treatments, including the black market use of GLP-1, poses significant risks to public health. As Thapar aptly put it, “Weight management, not drastic weight loss claims, is the way forward.”
Related Topics:
Al Roker Opens Up About His Views on Weight Loss Medications
Study Finds No Added Benefit of Taking Semaglutide Before Bariatric Surgery
