Ozempic-like weight loss drug Mounjaro launched in India - all you know to know

Global pharmaceutical company Eli Lilly has launched Mounjaro (tirzepatide) in India. The drug, a single-molecule drug designed to bind to and activate both GIP and GLP-1 receptors, helps in regulating regulate blood sugar and metabolism. Approved by the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO), the once-weekly injectable drug offers a novel approach to metabolic health management, targeting both glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptors.
Mounjaro is indicated for adults with type 2 diabetes as an adjunct to diet and exercise to improve blood sugar control. It is also prescribed for chronic weight management in individuals with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 kg/m2 or greater (obesity) or 27 kg/m2 or greater (overweight) with at least one weight-related condition.
Winselow Tucker, President and General Manager of Eli Lilly India, described the dual burden of obesity and type 2 diabetes as a pressing public health challenge in India. "Lilly is committed to working with the government and industry to increase awareness and improve disease management," he said, as reported by news agency PTI.
In the SURMOUNT-1 trial, participants taking the highest dose (15 mg) lost an average of 21.8 kg over 72 weeks, while those on the lowest dose (5 mg) lost 15.4 kg, ANI reported. The placebo group, in comparison, lost just 3.2 kg. Similarly, the SURPASS program showed a reduction in A1C levels by up to 2.4%, making it a promising treatment option for diabetes management.
Mounjaro is available in India in single-dose vials, with pricing starting at Rs 3,500 for a 2.5 mg vial and Rs 4,375 for a 5 mg vial. Monthly treatment costs range between Rs 14,000 and Rs 17,500, depending on the dosage.
Mounjaro’s launch follows the success of other GLP-1 receptor agonists, such as Ozempic (semaglutide), which has gained global recognition for its effectiveness in diabetes and weight management. Ozempic, marketed by Novo Nordisk, works similarly by mimicking hormones that regulate appetite and glucose levels.
Recent studies have also suggested that semaglutide may reduce alcohol cravings, a finding that has sparked interest in its potential use beyond weight loss and diabetes treatment. Researchers found that people taking semaglutide consumed nearly 30% less alcohol compared to those on a placebo, reinforcing the idea that GLP-1-based drugs may help manage addiction-related behaviors.
Rising obesity and diabetes rates in India
India is facing a growing epidemic of diabetes and obesity. Around 101 million Indians live with diabetes, and nearly half struggle with inadequate glycemic control. Meanwhile, obesity affects approximately 100 million adults and is linked to over 200 health complications, including heart disease, hypertension, and sleep apnea.
PM Modi flags rising obesity in India
In February, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during his Mann Ki Baat address, highlighted the growing obesity issue in India, adding that one in every eight people is affected.
He urged citizens to reduce their edible oil consumption by 10% monthly to combat obesity, a message he reinforced during his radio address on Sunday.
He also shared inspiring messages from Olympic medallist Neeraj Chopra, boxer Nikhat Zareen, and renowned cardiac surgeon Dr Devi Shetty, who supported the initiative by sharing personal experiences.
Additionally, the Prime Minister nominated several public figures, including business tycoons and celebrities, to spread awareness and extend the challenge to others.