American pharmaceutical giant Eli Lilly and Company has introduced its weight-loss injectable drug, Mounjaro, in India. This marks the first time a multinational pharma company has brought a widely used obesity treatment to the Indian market, where obesity and type-2 diabetes pose significant health challenges.
Mounjaro, a once-weekly injection, is priced at Rs 24,375 for a 5 mg vial and Rs 23,500 for a 2.5 mg vial. The drug received approval from India’s Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) on June 16, 2024, for import and sales. Prior to its official launch, Indian patients had been importing the drug for personal use. A monthly course of four 2.5 mg shots costs approximately Rs 14,000 in India, significantly lower than the Rs 23,000–25,000 cost in the UK.
Mounjaro, known chemically as tirzepatide, has demonstrated significant weight-loss benefits. Clinical trials showed that adults lost an average of 21.8 kg at the highest dose and 15.4 kg at the lowest dose over 72 weeks when combined with diet and exercise. The drug has already gained traction in the US, UK, and European markets.
India’s Obesity and Diabetes Crisis
India faces significant public health challenges related to metabolic disorders. According to various estimates cited by the company, India has approximately 101 million people living with diabetes, with nearly half of adult patients receiving inadequate treatment resulting in sub-optimal glycaemic control. Additionally, adult obesity prevalence in India stood at around 6.5% as of 2023, affecting nearly 100 million people.
Obesity is linked to over 200 health complications, including hypertension, dyslipidaemia, coronary heart disease, and obstructive sleep apnoea, and is a major risk factor for diabetes.
While Mounjaro offers promising results, experts emphasize cautious use. Dr. Nikhil Tandon, head of endocrinology at AIIMS Delhi, warns against unsupervised consumption.
“These medications are our best option currently, but they must be taken under strict medical supervision,” Dr. Tandon said. ” There are clear recommendations for who they work and for who they don’t, especially when talking about weight-loss in non-diabetics. Not all patients can tolerate the maximum dosage.”
Commitment to Address India’s Health Challenges
Winselow Tucker, President and General Manager of Lilly India, highlighted the company’s commitment to addressing India’s obesity and diabetes crisis.
“The dual burden of obesity and type-2 diabetes is a major public health challenge in India. Lilly aims to collaborate with the government and industry to raise awareness and enhance prevention and management strategies,” he stated.
