Key points
- GLP-1 medicines are prescription-only in India.
- A registered doctor can consult and prescribe by video, following the telemedicine rules.
- Medicine should come from a licensed pharmacy, kept cold.
- Avoid sellers without prescriptions and anything sold as a GLP-1 tablet or drop.
GLP-1 medicines need a prescription
Mounjaro, Wegovy, Ozempic, Poviztra and generic semaglutide are prescription-only medicines in India. A registered doctor has to assess you and decide they're right for you before a pharmacy can supply them.
The steps
- 1
Step 1
Assessment
A doctor reviews your weight, health, medicines and goals, in person or by video.
- 2
Step 2
Tests
Usually blood tests such as HbA1c, kidney, liver, lipids and thyroid.
- 3
Step 3
Prescription
If suitable, a written prescription with your starting dose.
- 4
Step 4
Licensed pharmacy
Your medicine is dispensed by a licensed pharmacy, kept cold.
- 5
Step 5
Follow-ups
Regular reviews to step up the dose safely and track progress.
Can it be done online?
Yes. India's Telemedicine Practice Guidelines (2020) allow registered doctors to consult by video and prescribe. The guidelines group medicines into lists: some can be prescribed at a first video consultation, some only at follow-up, and some not at all by teleconsultation. Your doctor follows these rules and may ask for tests or an in-person review first.
Red flags to avoid
- Anyone selling GLP-1 injections without a prescription, including on social media, WhatsApp groups, gyms or salons.
- “Mounjaro tablets”, drops or powders: there is no such thing.
- Prices far below MRP, unsealed packs, missing batch numbers or expiry dates.
- Pens delivered warm, without cold packaging.
- Promises of guaranteed weight loss or no side effects.
Getting genuine medicine
- Use a licensed pharmacy, in person or online, that asks for your prescription.
- Check the pack: brand, strength, batch number, expiry date and MRP.
- Store pens in the fridge (2°C to 8°C) and follow the in-use storage instructions.
Questions
Can I buy Mounjaro without a prescription in India?
No. It's a prescription-only medicine. Buying without one is unsafe and risks fake products.
Can a doctor prescribe GLP-1 medicines online?
Yes, within India's telemedicine rules, after a video consultation. They may ask for tests first.
How do I know my medicine is genuine?
Buy from a licensed pharmacy with your prescription, and check the seal, batch number, expiry and MRP.
