Oral GLP-1 Drugs (Health, Diseases and Biotechnology)
Oral GLP-1 Drugs (Health, Diseases and Biotechnology)
Why In News:
A new oral GLP-1 drug showed encouraging results during clinical trials, and a new monthly obesity drug promises easier weight management. Both developments relate to the fast-evolving class of GLP-1 receptor agonist drugs.
What are GLP-1 Drugs?
GLP-1 stands for Glucagon-Like Peptide-1- a natural incretin hormone secreted in the gut after food intake.
GLP-1 drugs work by: stimulating insulin secretion, suppressing glucagon (raises blood sugar), slowing gastric emptying, and reducing appetite.
Original use: Developed for Type 2 Diabetes management.
Expanded use: Now approved for obesity, cardiovascular risk reduction, and potentially kidney disease.
Current vs New Formulations
Existing injectable GLP-1 drugs:Semaglutide (Ozempic/Wegovy by Novo Nordisk) and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro by Eli Lilly)- administered as weekly injections.
New development:Oral GLP-1 formulations are being developed and tested- these would be far more accessible and patient-friendly than injections.
Monthly drug: A longer-acting formulation to reduce the dosing frequency from weekly to monthly.
Key Facts for Prelims
India has the second largest diabetes population globally.
India's drug regulator is CDSCO (Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation) under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.
CDSCO's head is the Drug Controller General of India (DCGI).
New Drugs and Clinical Trials Rules, 2019: Govern clinical trial regulation in India.
National Health Policy 2017 targets Universal Health Coverage and NCDs (non-communicable diseases like diabetes and obesity) as a priority.