Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi
New Delhi, Jun 12: India has officially approved and launched Mounjaro (tirzepatide), a groundbreaking injectable medication for the treatment of Type 2 diabetes and obesity. Developed by Eli Lilly and Company, the drug has received clearance from the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) and is now available in the Indian market.
Mounjaro is the first drug of its kind to target both GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide) and GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) receptors. This dual-action mechanism offers a new approach to managing metabolic health, especially as India faces a growing crisis of obesity and related non-communicable diseases. According to a government health survey from 2019–2021, 24% of Indian women and nearly 23% of men between 15 and 49 years of age were found to be overweight or obese—an alarming rise from earlier data.
Winselow Tucker, President and GM of Lilly India, stated that the dual burden of obesity and diabetes is becoming a major health concern and emphasized the company’s commitment to collaborating with the Indian government and healthcare sector to raise awareness and improve disease management.
Mounjaro is available in six dosage strengths ranging from 2.5 mg to 15 mg per 0.5 mL injection. The starting dose of 2.5 mg is priced at ?3,500 per vial, while the 5 mg vial costs Rs 4,375. Depending on the dosage, the monthly cost ranges from Rs 14,000 to Rs 17,500. This makes it significantly more affordable compared to its U.S. counterpart, where a single fill costs over $1,000.
Experts have welcomed the drug’s availability in India but cautioned against potential misuse. Dr. Ambrish Mithal, Chairman and Head of Endocrinology at Max Healthcare, hailed the drug as a significant advancement in diabetes and obesity treatment. He noted that similar GLP-1 receptor agonists like semaglutide (marketed as Ozempic and Wegovy) have also shown profound effects in weight loss and metabolic regulation. However, he warned that these drugs must only be used under medical supervision and should not be seen as cosmetic quick-fix solutions.
Eli Lilly has issued specific warnings regarding the drug's use. Individuals with a history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2) should not use Mounjaro. The company also advises against its use in people who have experienced allergic reactions to tirzepatide or any of its ingredients. Symptoms such as lumps in the neck, hoarseness, difficulty swallowing, or shortness of breath should prompt immediate medical consultation.
Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, stomach pain, decreased appetite, and indigestion. Mounjaro is not recommended for children under 18 years of age, and its safety in this group has not been established.
With its launch in India, Mounjaro brings renewed hope to millions managing Type 2 diabetes and obesity. However, healthcare professionals and the public alike are being urged to prioritize medical guidance and avoid unsupervised use.