Eli Lilly launches blockbuster anti-obesity drug Mounjaro in India. It has been launched in India after receiving marketing authorization from the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization. With the launch of this product, there are hopes that it will help control obesity and Type 2 diabetes and serve as an alternative to other weight loss drugs like Ozempic. Eli Lilly launches blockbuster anti-obesity drug Mounjaro in India.
What is Mounjaro?
Mounjaro is formulated as an injectable prescription medicine. It is designed to aid in weight loss and is used to manage Type 2 diabetes (T2D). It belongs to a new class of medicines known as GIP and GLP-1 receptor agonists. This makes it a more effective therapeutic drug than traditional weight-loss treatments. Mounjaro is uniquely developed in that it specifically targets two very important hormones in the body—glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1). These hormones help regulate appetite, blood sugar levels, and insulin secretion.
The drug can be administered once a week, which facilitates easier treatment for patients with obesity or diabetes. Unlike other weight-loss drugs, Mounjaro takes a more holistic approach by combining the effects of both hormones which improves the reduction of weight and control of blood sugar.
Availability and Price in India:
Mounjaro is now available across India. But it is available by prescription only. This therapeutic drug is being sold at much lower prices compared to the US which increases the accessibility of the drug for patients in India.
The price of Mounjaro in India is as follows:
- ₹3,500 for a 2.5 mg vial
- ₹4,375 for a 5 mg vial
The treatment cost for a month is between ₹14,000 and ₹17,500, depending on the dosage advised by the physician. In the US, the average monthly cost is approximately $1000-1200 (₹86,000-101,000).
The Mounjaro price in India is generally lower than competing obesity treatment drugs, making Mounjaro a favorable drug for effective weight-loss and diabetes management therapy.
How Does Mounjaro Work?
Mounjaro works by simulating two pivotal gut hormones: GIP and GLP-1, which control hunger, insulin secretion, and blood sugar levels. These two are crucial in weight loss and managing diabetes. Mounjaro works better than traditional therapies because it targets both hormones, while other treatments target one at a time.
Its clinical trial results have shown that in a trial study, adults consuming Mounjaro with a diet and active lifestyle lost on average:
- 21.8 kg with the highest dose (15mg)
- 15.4kg with the lowest dose (5mg)
Because of these results, Mounjaro can be regarded as an effective aid towards achieving long-term weight loss goals, as well as for patients with Type 2 diabetes who are looking to control their blood sugar levels.
Who Can Take Mounjaro?
Mounjaro has usually been prescribed to:
- Obese patients (have a BMI of 30 or more)
- Overweight patients (have a BMI of 27 or more) with relevant health problems
- Patients diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes require better control of their blood sugar levels.
Not everyone can take Mounjaro and these are some reasons why: a history of thyroid cancer and pancreatitis, pregnant and lactating mothers, and individuals with severe dysfunctions of the gastrointestinal tract.
Side Effects and Risks:
Like any medication, Mounjaro may cause side effects. Some common ones include:
- nausea
- vomiting
- diarrhea
- constipation
- loss of appetite
Some serious but rare risks include:
- pancreatitis
- gallbladder disease
- kidney problems
- changes in vision
- thyroid tumors
It is important for patients contemplating Mounjaro to have a discussion with their doctors to understand the pros and cons relating to their personal medical history and health condition.
Obesity in India: A Growing Health Concern:
Obesity has emerged as one of the most prominent health concerns in India. The National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5) conducted between 2019-21 shows that 24% of women and 23% of men in India were found to be overweight or obese. Obesity-related health complications like Type 2 diabetes (T2D), hypertension, and cardiovascular diseases have been increasing at a disturbing pace.
Mounjaro comes as a relief to many struggling with diabetes management and weight loss, especially with the growing obesity trend.
Mounjaro vs. Other Weight-Loss Drugs in India:
In the Indian market, certain other weight-loss therapeutic options are available, such as Rybelsus, an oral tablet from Novo Nordisk (launched in 2022). This medicine has already captured a significant market share.
Though Rybelsus is useful, it is less potent when compared to injectable weight-loss medicines like Ozempic and Wegody. Mounjaro is a useful alternative since Ozempic’s injectable version will not be available in India anytime soon and Wegody is set to launch in 2026 (pending regulatory approval).
Conclusion:
Eli Lilly launches weight-loss drug Mounjaro in India. This approval marks a progressive step in India in terms of tackling obesity and Type 2 diabetes (T2D) as the region now has access to a powerful medicine. Considering its value, cost-effective nature, and ease of use, Mounjaro is expected to change the paradigm of weight-loss therapy in India. If you are dealing with obesity, or have difficulty controlling blood sugar levels, talk to your doctor to see if Mounjaro is right for you.
For additional queries or to buy Mounjaro in India and other countries, reach out to us at Indian Generic Medicines (IGM) via Call/WhatsApp at: +91 8130290915 or TOLL-FREE: 1800-889-1064.
References:
https://uspl.lilly.com/mounjaro/mounjaro.html#pi
https://investor.lilly.com/news-releases/news-release-details/fda-approves-lillys-mounjarotm-tirzepatide-injection-first-and
https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-approves-new-medication-chronic-weight-management
