ELI LILLY is the first major weight loss and diabetes drug that officially started Mounjaro (Tirzepatide) in India. This movement is ahead of the rival Novo Nordisk, and weight loss drug Wegovy has not yet debuted in the Indian market. As India faces a double infectious disease of obesity and diabetes, the possibility of MOUNJARO can have a significant impact on millions of patients.
- For 5mg vials, ₹ 4,375 ($ 50.67)
- 2.5 mg vials ₹ 3,500 ($ 40.54)
Patients in India can spend about $ 16,000 a month ($ 200) a month by prescribing 5mg dosage. For comparison, Mounjaro’s list price is $ 1,086.37 a month, but the actual cost depends on the insurance plan.
Despite the cost, Mounjaro’s demand is expected to increase rapidly given effective blood sugar control and significant weight loss.
India is the home of more than 1.4 billion people, and this country has a rapid increase in obesity and diabetes (Photo: Getty Images/ThinkStock)
How does Mounjaro work?
According to Dr. Manisha Arora, director of the Medical Department of Mounjaro’s CK Birla Hospital Medicine, Mounjaro imitates two main hormones.
- Glucagon-similar peptide-1 (GLP-1)
- Gastric inhibitory polypeptide (GIP)
This hormone controls blood sugar, controls appetite, and slows down, making the patient full for a long time. The double action of Mounjaro for GLP-1 and GIP receptors is differentiated from Ozempic (Semaglutide), which is only a target of GLP-1.
Like other drugs, Mounjaro has a potential risk.
Dr. Arora said, “Common side effects are gastrointestinal issues such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and acid reflux.
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She added that fast weight loss could contribute to the gallbladder -related state, such as gallstones (gallbladder) and gallbladder inflammation (cholecystitis).
Who can take Mounjaro?
Dr. Arora explains that Mounjaro is suitable next.
✅ Adults with better blood sugar control with 2 diabetes.
✅ Obesity or overweight individuals who are struggling with weight loss.
✅ Insulin resistance patients who did not respond well to other treatments.
These people should avoid drugs depending on Dr. Arora.
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❌ Pregnant women and children.
❌ Type 1 diabetes patient.
Individuals with pancreatitis or thyroid cancer (MEN2 syndrome).
❌ People with gastrointestinal disorders.
She added that MOUNJARO is a strict taboo for an individual with a troop of bone marrow thyroid carcinoma or multiple endocrine biodet 2 (men2) syndrome.
The global weight loss drug market is expected to cost $ 150 billion over the next 10 years. (Source: File Photo)
Mounjaro vs. Ozempic: Which is more effective?
| characteristic | MOUNJARO (Tirzepatide) | Ozempic (Semaglutide) |
|---|---|---|
| Targeted receptor | GLP-1 + GIP | GLP-10 |
| Weight loss | 20-25% of weight | Up to 15% |
| Diabetes control | Reduction of excellent blood sugar | It is more effective than Mounjaro, but less powerful |
Studies have shown that Mounjaro has led to a decrease in weight of up to 20 kg over 72 weeks, which is used as one of the most effective weight loss treatments today.
Lilly vs Novo Nordisk: Battle for the Indian Market
Lilly took the lead with Mounjaro, but Novo Nordisk was not far away. The company confirmed that Wegovy was already approved in India, but the launch timeline is not clear. According to the report, NOVO’s Indian team is promoting its launch in 2025 ahead of 2026 of 2026.
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Wegovy and Ozempic (Semaglutide) belong to the GLP-1 receptor agonist-based drugs that control blood sugar and help weight loss. However, Mounjaro’s additional GIP measures advantage in weight management.
The global weight loss drug market is expected to cost $ 150 billion over the next 10 years. By 2026, Semaglutide (active ingredient of Wegovy and Ozempic) will be shifted from India to radio waves, allowing local companies to introduce cheaper alternatives.
Diabetes and Obesity: India’s health crisis is growing.
There are more than 1.4 billion people in India, and this country is rapidly increasing in both obesity and diabetes.
According to the International Diabetes Federation, diabetes cases are expected to increase from 74.2 million in 2021 to 20.4 million. From 2019 to 2021, government surveys found that 24% of women and 23% (15-49 years) of men were overweight or obese. 2015-2016 level (20.6%for women, 19%for men).
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Given these amazing figures, the entry of drugs such as MOUNJARO and Wegovy can be a game changer in solving India’s public health crisis.
disclaimer: This article is based on the information of the public domain and/or the experts we mentioned. Always contact your health manager before you start your daily life.
