Eli Lilly launches popular weight loss drug Mounjaro in India to tackle obesity and diabetes

Mounjaro

MNC pharma major Eli Lilly has launched Mounjaro (tirzepatide), a weekly injection for obesity and type 2 diabetes, after obtaining approval from India’s Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO).

The company told Moneycontrol that the 2.5 mg vial is priced at Rs. 3,500  and the 5 mg vial is priced at Rs 4,375.

"This India-specific pricing reflects Lilly’s commitment to expanding access to innovative treatments in the country," the company spokesperson said.

Mounjaro will be available upon obtaining a valid prescription, in registered pharmacies in the coming weeks, the company.

Lilly spokesperson said the tirzepatide shortage has been resolved. Since 2020, Lilly has invested over $50 billion to increase production capacity.

The drug has seen strong demand in the US and Europe, and its India launch is part of Lilly’s broader strategy to expand access to innovative treatments in emerging markets. The company is working with healthcare providers, insurers, and policymakers to ensure affordable access to the drug.

Mounjaro activates both GIP and GLP-1 hormone receptors, has demonstrated significant weight loss and blood sugar control in clinical trials. GLP-1, or glucagon-like peptide-1, are hormones produced in human body that are crucial in regulating blood sugar levels and appetite.

“The dual burden of obesity and type 2 diabetes is rapidly emerging as a major public health challenge in India,” said Winselow Tucker, President and General Manager, Lilly India, adding that the company is “committed to collaborating with the government and industry to improve prevention and management.”

In a US study of tirzepatide in participants with obesity, known as SURMOUNT-1 clinical trial, Mounjaro led to an average weight loss of 21.8 kg at the highest dose (15mg) and 15.4 kg at the lowest dose (5mg) over 72 weeks. Additionally, one in three patients lost over 25% of their body weight, a significantly higher percentage than the 1.5% seen in the placebo group.

Mounjaro in India will be “offering a new approach to metabolic health management,” said Dr. Manish Mistry, Senior Medical Director, Lilly India.

Mounjaro works by selectively binding and activating GIP and GLP-1 receptors, improving insulin secretion, reducing glucagon levels, enhancing insulin sensitivity, and delaying gastric emptying. It also influences appetite regulation, fat mass reduction, and lipid utilization.