New Delhi: American pharmaceutical giant Eli Lilly has officially introduced its groundbreaking drug Mounjaro in India, marking a significant milestone in diabetes and weight-loss treatment. This launch gives the company a head start over its rival Novo Nordisk, as demand for innovative weight-loss medications continues to soar worldwide.
Mounjaro, chemically known as tirzepatide, is a once-weekly injectable treatment approved by India’s drug regulator. The drug, available in two doses, is priced at ₹4,375 ($50.67) for a 5 mg vial and ₹3,500 ($40.54) for a 2.5 mg vial. A patient prescribed a weekly 5 mg dose would spend approximately $200 (around ₹17,500) per month, according to reports.
India’s Growing Diabetes and Obesity Crisis
India has one of the highest diabetes populations globally, with over 101 million people diagnosed with the condition. Shockingly, nearly half of these patients suffer from poor glycemic control due to inadequate treatment. Obesity, a leading risk factor for diabetes, has also reached alarming levels, with an estimated 100 million Indian adults classified as obese as of 2023.
Dr. Ambrish Mithal, Chairman and Head of Endocrinology & Diabetes at Max Healthcare, expressed concern over India’s rising obesity rates. “Obesity is fueling an increase in diabetes, heart disease, hypertension, and fatty liver disease. Managing obesity is becoming a serious challenge, and the ultimate solution lies in prevention and lifestyle modifications,” he stated.
Mounjaro’s Role in Diabetes and Weight Management
Originally developed for diabetes management, tirzepatide later demonstrated remarkable weight-loss effects, making it a promising treatment for obesity as well. The drug functions by targeting GLP-1 and GIP receptors, which regulate appetite and metabolism.
According to Eli Lilly, Mounjaro works by:
- Improving insulin secretion and reducing glucagon levels
- Enhancing insulin sensitivity
- Delaying gastric emptying, leading to reduced food intake
- Promoting fat loss by regulating appetite
Medical Experts Caution Against Misuse
While the availability of Mounjaro in India is a major breakthrough, doctors warn against its misuse. Dr. Mithal emphasized that Mounjaro should only be used under medical supervision.
“My only concern is the potential for misuse. People should not treat this as a cosmetic weight-loss drug or use it casually without a prescription. This drug must be administered strictly under the guidance of an endocrinologist or physician,” he cautioned.
Dr. Ashutosh Goyal, Senior Consultant Endocrinologist at Paras Health Gurugram, echoed similar sentiments. He stressed that while these medications can transform lives, they must be integrated into a holistic treatment plan, including lifestyle modifications, dietary changes, and regular exercise.
“By combining cutting-edge pharmaceuticals with personalized care, we can optimize patient outcomes and reduce the long-term health and economic burden of obesity and metabolic disorders,” Dr. Goyal added.
A More Affordable Option for India?
Previously, Indian patients had to import such medications at exorbitant costs. Now, with Mounjaro’s availability at a relatively lower price, a large segment of the urban middle class can access this treatment. However, affordability remains a concern for many, as a full treatment course still costs several thousand rupees per month.
The Future of Weight-Loss Medications in India
The launch of Mounjaro could pave the way for more advanced weight-loss and diabetes treatments in India. As awareness grows and more research is conducted, experts believe pharmaceutical innovation combined with preventive healthcare measures will be key to tackling the nation’s rising metabolic health crisis.
