A New Option for Diabetes and Obesity Management
US pharmaceutical giant Eli Lilly has launched its highly anticipated diabetes and obesity treatment drug, Mounjaro (tirzepatide), in India. The drug, which has been a strong competitor to Ozempic globally, is priced at ₹3,500 for a 2.5 mg vial and ₹4,375 for a 5 mg vial. Patients typically take the medication once a week, translating to a monthly expense of ₹14,000 to ₹17,500, depending on the prescribed dosage.
Mounjaro has already gained significant traction in the US market, where its price ranges between $1,000 and $1,200 (approximately ₹86,000 to ₹1 lakh) per month. The drug has been introduced in India as a single-dose vial following marketing authorization from the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO). According to Eli Lilly, Mounjaro is the first treatment of its kind that activates both GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide) and GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) hormone receptors, offering a novel approach to metabolic health management. The company emphasized that its India-specific pricing reflects its commitment to expanding access to innovative therapies in the country.
Growing Demand for Anti-Obesity Medications
The launch of Mounjaro comes amid a surge in demand for GLP-1 receptor agonists, a class of drugs used for diabetes and obesity management. This market has seen exponential growth, with the total value of anti-obesity medications in India increasing from ₹137 crore in November 2020 to ₹535 crore in November 2024, according to Pharmatrac. The upcoming expiration of semaglutide’s patent in March next year has also prompted Indian pharmaceutical companies such as Mankind Pharma, Alkem Labs, and Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories to develop generic versions of the drug.
Mounjaro has demonstrated significant weight-loss benefits in clinical trials. Patients who followed a controlled diet and exercise regimen while taking the highest dose (15 mg) of the drug lost an average of 21.8 kg over 72 weeks, while those on the lowest dose (5 mg) lost 15.4 kg. Given India’s growing obesity and diabetes burden, experts believe Mounjaro could play a crucial role in addressing these public health challenges.
“The dual burden of obesity and type 2 diabetes is rapidly emerging as a major health concern in India,” said Winselow Tucker, president and general manager of Lilly India. “We are committed to working with the government and industry to enhance awareness, prevention, and treatment of these diseases.”
Rising Health Concerns and the Need for Effective Treatment
India currently has an estimated 101 million people living with diabetes, nearly half of whom struggle with inadequate glycemic control. Obesity, which affects around 6.5% of the adult population, is a major contributor to diabetes and is linked to over 200 health complications, including hypertension, coronary heart disease, and sleep apnea.
Novo Nordisk, which launched its oral semaglutide tablet Rybelsus in India in 2022, has already captured nearly 65% of the anti-obesity drug market. Industry experts believe the introduction of more treatment options, such as Mounjaro, will provide patients with better access to effective therapies.
“Mounjaro offers a promising new approach to treating obesity and diabetes,” said Dr. Manish Mistry, senior medical director at Lilly India. “By activating both GIP and GLP-1 receptors, the drug helps regulate appetite, reduce food intake, and enhance insulin sensitivity. This could be a game-changer in managing metabolic health disorders.”
With the growing prevalence of diabetes and obesity in India, Mounjaro’s entry into the market is expected to provide healthcare professionals with an additional tool to combat these conditions. The drug’s innovative mechanism and competitive pricing could make it a preferred choice for many patients seeking long-term treatment solutions.
