Eli Lilly Launches Weight Loss Drug In India: What You Should Know About Mounjaro

US-based pharmaceutical giant Eli Lilly has launched its diabetes and weight-loss drug, Mounjaro, in India, following approval from the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO).

The pharmaceutical company has launched it in a single-dose vial presentation following the marketing authorisation from CDSCO. This much-anticipated drug is a first-of-its-kind treatment for obesity, overweight, and type 2 diabetes.

For the unversed, Mounjaro, chemically known as tirzepatide, is primarily used for controlling blood sugar levels in individuals with type-2 diabetes. Just like Novo Nordisk's Ozempic, it also helps with effective weight loss.

Tirzepatide works by mimicking two important hormones in the body, GIP and GLP-1.

"Historically, anti-obesity drugs have been plagued by failures, often proving ineffective or unsustainable. However, a new class of medications known as GLP-1 receptor agonists has shown remarkable promise. Originally developed for diabetes management, these drugs were later found to have profound weight-loss effects. Among them, semaglutide (sold as Ozempic and Wegovy) and tirzepatide (sold as Mounjaro) have gained significant attention," says Dr. Ambrish Mithal, Chairman & Head - Endocrinology & Diabetes, Max Healthcare.

How does it work?

"Technically, these are Glucagon-like Peptide (GLP)-1 receptor agonists which stimulate insulin release from the pancreas and also delay emptying of food from the stomach. This causes a feeling of fullness even on eating small quantities of food and suppresses appetite. This results in weight loss and better sugar control," explains Dr. Monica Mahajan, Director - Internal Medicine, Max Healthcare.

By influencing multiple body systems simultaneously, tirzepatide offers a powerful approach to managing both diabetes and weight.

Important safety information

"My only concern-and I have voiced this repeatedly-is the potential for misuse. Those considering these drugs should only take them under the supervision of an endocrinologist or physician."

"Do not make the mistake of using them as a cosmetic drug or casually purchasing and injecting them. Remember, these drugs will be available only by prescription," Dr. Mithal told DoctorNDTV.

Mounjaro in India: Price, dosage and more

Mounjaro is a once-weekly injection available at the starting dose of 2.5 mg. A single-dose vial of 2.5 mg is priced at Rs 3,500, and the the 5 mg injection cost Rs 4,375.

Mounjaro is a prescription-based medicine.

"I think they are a huge advancement, and it's very good that they will now be accessible to the Indian public at a slightly more affordable price. Previously, patients had to obtain them from abroad, where they were very expensive," adds Dr. Mithal.

Obesity rates in India are rising at an alarming pace, fueling an increase in diabetes, heart disease, hypertension, fatty liver disease, and related conditions. "Managing obesity has become a significant challenge, and the ultimate solution lies in prevention. It is important to focus on promoting healthy eating habits from infancy through adulthood," Dr. Mithal advocates.

Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for a qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.