Eli Lilly Launches Mounjaro Drug in India for Weight Loss and Type 2 Diabetes

Eli Lilly has introduced Mounjaro (tirzepatide), a once-weekly injectable drug approved by the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO), for the treatment of type 2 diabetes and weight loss in India. The drug is expected to be available in pharmacies across the country in the coming weeks with a valid prescription.

Dual Receptor Mechanism

Mounjaro is the first drug in its class to activate both GIP and GLP-1 receptors. This dual-action mechanism helps regulate blood sugar levels, promote insulin secretion, reduce glucagon, slow digestion, and influence appetite and fat metabolism. It is not insulin but a receptor agonist that increases the body’s sensitivity to insulin.

The 2.5 mg vial of Mounjaro has been priced at ₹3,500, while the 5 mg vial is set at ₹4,375. These prices are specific to the Indian market.

Clinical Trial Data

In the SURMOUNT-1 clinical trial conducted in the United States, participants with obesity taking tirzepatide recorded an average weight loss of 21.8 kg at the highest dose (15 mg) and 15.4 kg at the lowest dose (5 mg) over 72 weeks. Additionally, 1 in 3 participants lost over 25% of their body weight, compared to 1.5% in the placebo group.

Comparison with Other Drugs

Mounjaro and Ozempic (semaglutide) are both used for type 2 diabetes, but only Mounjaro has dual GIP and GLP-1 action. Ozempic targets GLP-1 alone. Both drugs are also prescribed off-label for weight loss, though Mounjaro’s clinical trials have shown greater average weight loss figures.

Conclusion 

The company stated that the previous shortage of tirzepatide has been resolved. Since 2020, Eli Lilly has invested over $50 billion to scale up manufacturing operations globally.

Eli Lilly is coordinating with healthcare providers, insurers, and policymakers in India to support distribution and access for patients managing type 2 diabetes and obesity.

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