What they are
GLP-1 and GIP are hormones released by the gut after a meal. They help the pancreas release insulin when sugar is high, slow the emptying of the stomach and signal fullness to the brain.
- GLP-1 medicines copy the action of GLP-1. Examples are semaglutide, liraglutide and dulaglutide.
- Tirzepatide acts on both GIP and GLP-1 receptors (a dual agonist).
Who they are for
- People with type 2 diabetes, especially those who also need to lose weight or have heart or kidney disease
- Adults with obesity, or with overweight and a weight-related condition such as prediabetes, high blood pressure, sleep apnoea or fatty liver
Asian Indians develop weight-related disease at a lower body weight, so assessment is based on your overall health, not weight alone. These medicines are not meant for small, cosmetic weight loss, and they are not a treatment for type 1 diabetes.
How they are given
Most are injections under the skin of the abdomen or thigh, once a week for semaglutide, dulaglutide and tirzepatide, and once a day for liraglutide. Semaglutide is also available as a daily tablet for diabetes. Doses are started low and increased slowly to reduce side effects.
What results to expect
- In large studies, people lost on average about 15% of their body weight with weight-management doses of semaglutide, and about 20% with the highest dose of tirzepatide, over about 16 to 18 months, alongside diet and activity changes
- Results vary widely between people
- In diabetes they lower HbA1c and rarely cause low sugars on their own
- Some have been shown to reduce heart attacks and strokes in people with heart disease, and to protect the kidneys in people with diabetes and kidney disease
Availability and cost
Both semaglutide and tirzepatide are available in India on prescription. Generic versions of semaglutide became available in March 2026, which has lowered the cost. Buy only from a licensed pharmacy with a prescription.
Is it right for me?
That depends on your weight, blood sugar, other conditions, medicines and plans for pregnancy. An endocrinologist can assess whether these medicines suit you and plan treatment alongside food and activity changes.
This guide is general information and is not a substitute for a consultation. These are prescription medicines; start, change or stop them only with your doctor.