An expert decodes the truth behind GLP-1 drugs

Up until the launch of his book, Dr Ambrish Mithal was an endocrinologist. Once he turned author, however, his focus shifted from being a “diabetes doctor” to an expert on weight loss.

- Kumkum Chadha

His new book, The Weight Loss Revolution, touches on what GLP-1 drugs such as Ozempic and Mounjaro are, the red flags and benefits and who should keep away.

We caught up with Dr Mithal to decode these questions and more for those looking to lead a healthier life. Excerpts:

Q: Ozempic, Mounjaro - are these drugs for weight loss or diabetes control? Do they prevent diabetes?

GLP-1 were developed for diabetes - Semaglutide can reduce the risk by 60%. But one of their other functions is to tell us when to stop eating. As 15% weight loss can be achieved with GLP-1, as against 4-5% that resulted from previously available drugs like Metformin. So, this dramatic effect caught the public imagination.

Q: Are these injectable or the pop-a-pill variety?