Eli Lilly's Mounjaro Launches in India, Targeting Obesity and Diabetes
The groundbreaking dual-purpose drug offers significant weight loss and diabetes management benefits but raises concerns over affordability and side effects.
- Mounjaro (tirzepatide), a dual GLP-1 and GIP receptor agonist, has officially launched in India for type 2 diabetes treatment and obesity management under medical supervision.
- The drug has shown remarkable weight loss efficacy, with clinical studies reporting reductions of 15–25% in body weight depending on patient profiles.
- Affordability remains a key challenge, as the drug costs ₹3,500–₹4,375 per dose, making it expensive for many in India's price-sensitive market.
- Reported side effects include gastrointestinal issues, and there are potential risks such as thyroid cancer, pancreatitis, and gallstones, necessitating medical oversight.
- Competition with Novo Nordisk's Ozempic intensifies, as Mounjaro demonstrates superior weight loss results but with higher gastrointestinal side effects.