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GLP-1 Drugs: The Weight Loss Revolution
Danish pharma giant Novo Nordisk recently launched semaglutide in India, following Eli Lilly’s tirzepatide. These injectables, popular in the US since 2021, are transforming diabetes and obesity treatment. Here’s what you need to know:

How GLP-1 Drugs Work
These drugs mimic gut hormones called incretins (like GLP-1) to:
Boost insulin secretion, helping cells absorb blood glucose.
Suppress glucagon, a hormone that releases stored glucose.
Slow stomach emptying to prevent blood sugar spikes.
Reduce appetite by signaling fullness to the brain.

Key Players & Developments
Semaglutide & Tirzepatide: Reduce body weight by 15-20% (equivalent to bariatric surgery).
Tirzepatide’s Edge: Targets both GLP-1 and GIP hormones for enhanced results.
Future Oral Versions: Orforglipron and Danulipron (under development).
New Drugs in Trial: Survodutide and Mazdutide (dual-targeting GLP-1 + glucagon).

Diabetes & Obesity: Critical Facts
Type 1 Diabetes: Pancreas fails to produce insulin (starts in childhood).
Type 2 Diabetes: Body cells resist insulin (linked to obesity).
WHO Obesity Definition: Abnormal fat accumulation with BMI ≥30.
India’s Challenge: 77+ million diabetics; rising obesity due to sedentary lifestyles.

Historical Context
Incretins were discovered in 1906 but overshadowed by insulin (1921). Today, GLP-1 drugs mark a paradigm shift in metabolic disease management.

Why This Matters for Exams
Prelims: High-probability current affairs topic (national/international importance).
Mains: General Studies III (Science & Technology applications).
Key Themes: Healthcare innovations, diabetes epidemic, and public health policies.
Exams Covered: SSC, PSC, UPSC, NIFT, NID, and state-level tests.


Sample Q&A for Exam Practice
Q: What mechanism makes GLP-1 drugs effective for weight loss?
A: They suppress appetite by signaling brain satiety and slow stomach emptying.
Q: Name two drugs recently launched for obesity management in India.
A: Semaglutide (Novo Nordisk) and Tirzepatide (Eli Lilly).
Q: How does tirzepatide differ from semaglutide?
A: Tirzepatide targets both GLP-1 and GIP hormones for superior weight loss.
Q: Define obesity as per WHO standards.
A: Abnormal fat accumulation with BMI ≥30, posing health risks.
Q: Why is India called the ‘diabetes capital’?
A: With 77+ million cases, it has the world’s second-highest diabetic population.


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