US pharmaceutical company Eli Lilly has launched its popular anti-diabetes and weight-loss drug, Mounjaro, in India. The drug was approved by India’s drug regulator, the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO).
Mounjaro is used to treat type 2 diabetes and help with weight management. It comes in a single-dose vial and works by activating two hormones, GIP and GLP-1, which help regulate blood sugar levels and reduce appetite.
Mounjaro is meant to be used along with a healthy diet and regular exercise. It is prescribed for adults with obesity (BMI of 30 or higher), overweight adults (BMI of 27 or higher) who have weight-related health issues, and adults with type 2 diabetes to help control blood sugar levels.
Obesity and type 2 diabetes are increasing rapidly in India, becoming a major health concern. Winslow Tucker, President of Lilly India, said the company is collaborating with the government and healthcare sector to raise awareness and improve treatment options.
“We aim to help people with obesity and diabetes lead healthier lives. The launch of Mounjaro reflects our commitment to bringing innovative medicines to India,” he said.
In July 2024, India’s top drug regulator approved Lilly’s tripeptide, the key ingredient in Mounjaro and Zepbound, following a recommendation from a subject expert committee. Mounjaro is a prescription drug, and its treatment plan varies based on a doctor’s recommendation. The starting dose of 2.5 mg costs ₹3,500 per vial, while the 5 mg injection is priced at ₹4,375. A full month of treatment at the 2.5 mg dose is estimated to cost around ₹14,000.
Mounjaro has shown promising results in global studies. In the SURMOUNT-1 study on 2,539 adults with obesity or excess weight, those who combined Mounjaro with diet and exercise saw significant weight loss over 72 weeks. Participants on the highest 15 mg dose lost an average of 21.8 kg, while those on the 5 mg dose lost 15.4 kg. In comparison, the placebo group lost only 3.2 kg. The SURPASS study, which tested Mounjaro alongside other diabetes medications, found that it helped lower blood sugar (A1C) levels by up to 2.4% in 40 weeks.
Mounjaro is a once-a-week prescription drug that regulates blood sugar, insulin, and appetite by enhancing insulin release, lowering glucagon levels, improving insulin sensitivity, slowing digestion to keep people full longer, and reducing food intake and fat storage.
With diabetes and obesity rising rapidly in India-101 million Indians currently live with diabetes, and nearly 100 million were affected by obesity in 2023, effective treatments are needed.
Dr. Manish Mistry, Senior Medical Director at Eli Lilly India, highlighted the urgency of addressing these health issues, stating that Mounjaro offers a new and effective way to manage obesity and diabetes. With its launch in India, the drug provides a new option for those seeking better weight management and blood sugar control.
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