Eli Lilly launches Weight Loss Drug Mounjaro in India

Following approval from India’s Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO), MNC pharma major Eli Lilly today launched Mounjaro (tirzepatide), a weekly injection for obesity and type 2 diabetes.

After reporting strong demand in the U.S. and Europe, its India launch is Lilly’s broader strategy to give access to innovative treatments in emerging markets.

Mounjaro activates both GIP and GLP-1 hormone receptors, and has demonstrated significant weight loss and blood sugar control in clinical trials. GLP-1, or glucagon-like peptide-1, are hormones in the human body that are responsible for regulating blood sugar levels and appetite.

“The dual burden of obesity and type 2 diabetes is rapidly emerging as a major public health challenge in India,” said Winselow Tucker, President and General Manager, Lilly India, adding that the company is “committed to collaborating with the government and industry to improve prevention and management.”

As per a US study of tirzepatide in participants with obesity, Mounjaro contributed to an average weight loss of 21.8 kg at the highest dose (15mg) and 15.4 kg at the lowest dose (5mg) over 72 weeks. Additionally, one in three patients lost over 25% of their body weight, a significantly higher percentage than the 1.5% seen in the placebo group.

Dr. Manish Mistry, Senior Medical Director, Lilly India said, Mounjaro in India will be “offering a new approach to metabolic health management,”