Weight-loss injections deliver in real life: 4 in 10 Indians shed 10% body weight | India News

New Delhi: A new generation of weight-loss injections – already popular worldwide – is now showing strong results in Indian patients as well A new study from a Delhi hospital found that more than 4 in 10 people lose at least 10% of their body weight, a level doctors say can significantly improve overall health.The study, led by doctors at Max Super Specialty Hospital, led by endocrinologist Dr. Ombrish Mittal, and published in the Indian Journal of Endocrinology and Metabolism, tracked 150 overweight and obese adults on this therapy in routine clinical practice.On average, patients lose about 8% of their body weight in six months – about 6 to 10 kilos for many. About three-quarters lose at least 5%, considered minimal for health benefits such as better sugar control and reduced heart risk. Experts say the findings are based on a short-term follow-up of about six months. “This is not the ultimate weight loss. With longer follow-up, especially one year, the loss is likely to be significantly greater,” says Dr. Ombrish Mithal.But the results were not the same for everyone.People without diabetes responded much better, losing about twice as much weight as people with diabetes. Research suggests that this may be due to profound metabolic changes and insulin resistance in diabetics.The type of medication is also important. Patients on tirzepatide — a new dual-action injection — saw greater and faster weight loss than patients on semaglutide. Many reach the 10% mark within 9 to 10 months, though doctors caution that the process is gradual, not instantaneous.The study offers a reality check. Younger patients and those trying these drugs for the first time saw faster results, while those who had used similar drugs before lost weight more slowly.Side effects such as nausea, bloating, and constipation were common, especially in the early stages, but were manageable and did not force patients to discontinue treatment.Unlike clinical trials, which are tightly controlled, this research reflects what happens in everyday life — where people may miss doses, change their diet or have other health conditions. Even then, the results held up, giving doctors confidence that these drugs work outside of ideal settings.With obesity and diabetes on the rise in India, the findings mark a shift in how weight loss is being achieved — from diet and exercise alone to medical support that can make a measurable difference.Experts say the message is simple: These injections aren’t magic fixes, but when used consistently and alongside lifestyle changes, they can lead to steady, meaningful weight loss over time.