US pharma giant Eli Lilly & Co. has launched its much-anticipated anti-obesity drug, Mounjaro (tirzepatide), in India. Priced significantly lower than its US counterpart, the drug is India’s first-of-its-kind treatment for obesity, targeting both weight loss and type-2 diabetes management.

Key Highlights
Drug Launch Details

• Mounjaro is now available in India in two vial strengths:

• 2.5 mg vial priced at ₹3,500

• 5 mg vial priced at ₹4,375

• Recommended dosage: Once-weekly injection.

• Monthly cost for patients: ₹14,000 to ₹17,500.

Mechanism & Benefits

• Mounjaro (tirzepatide) works by activating GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide) and GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) hormone receptors.

• The drug improves blood sugar management, reduces hunger, slows digestion, and enhances satiety.

• Authorized for weight loss in patients with and without type-2 diabetes.

Market Potential & Competition

• Global demand for GLP-1 drugs is booming; Goldman Sachs projects the market will hit $100 billion by 2030.

• Although Eli Lilly enjoys a first-mover advantage, competition is heating up:

Rival Novo Nordisk plans to introduce Ozempic (semaglutide) in India.
Cipla, Dr Reddy’s, Lupin, Mankind Pharma, Natco Pharma, and Biocon are preparing to launch cheaper generics of semaglutide by 2026.
Sun Pharmaceutical Industries is developing its own GLP-1 therapy.

• Experts predict generic versions of semaglutide will be priced 95% lower than Eli Lilly’s Mounjaro.

Statements from Leaders or Officials
Eli Lilly India Statement:
 “This India-specific pricing reflects Lilly’s commitment to expanding access to innovative treatments in the country.”
Dr. Rajiv Kovil, Senior Diabetologist:
 “At least 50% of our type-2 diabetes patients are overweight. We expect Mounjaro's usage among diabetes patients to see a 15-20% pickup initially.”
Vishal Manchanda, Senior VP, Systematix Group:
 “Semaglutide generics will be priced almost 95% lower than Eli Lilly’s current price. With such price drops, GLP-1 drug volumes will surge.”Eli Lilly's launch of Mounjaro marks a significant milestone in India’s obesity and diabetes treatment landscape. However, with impending generic competition and price cuts expected by 2026, the GLP-1 drug market in India is set for rapid expansion, promising broader access to these life-altering therapies.