The Indian launch of Eli Lilly's weight-loss medication Mounjaro has created a tidal wave of patient interest, with some clinics and physicians reporting scores of enquiries within days. As the country braces for an expected increase in obesity levels, the arrival of Mounjaro is transforming India's weight-loss treatment scenario.

Key Highlights

Massive Rise in Public Enquiries

• Delhi-based clinic Elevate Now logged more than 200 calls related to Mounjaro in a week.

• Manipal Hospitals, Bengaluru, witnessed a 20% increase in inquiries on availability of weight-loss drugs.

Patients Shun Black Market

• Availability of Mounjaro locally brings succour to patients who had been obtaining from Dubai or black market dealers earlier.

• Patients now shell out less than half the black market rate, claims Dr. Muffazal Lakdawala of Sir H.N. Reliance Foundation Hospital.

Mounjaro's Competitive Pricing Takes Edge

• Mounjaro vials that cost ₹3,500–₹4,375 for 2.5–5 mg doses.

• The U.S. price is more than $1,000/month (₹86,000+).

• An average Indian patient pays about ₹17,200 ($200) every month.

Impact on Competing Drugs and Competition in the Market

• Novo Nordisk can push forward the launch of Wegovy in India in the wake of Mounjaro momentum.

• Generic Indian manufacturers are in a race to produce low-cost Wegovy generics.

• Analysts foresee India's weight-loss medicine market to considerably expand in the next few years.

Doctors Urge Caution

• Some doctors have received over 100 calls in two days post-launch announcement.

• Bariatric surgeon Amar Vennapusa cautions patients to seek proper medical advice before usage.

• Patient Keerthi Reddy said, “My friends abroad had great results. I’ve been waiting for this in India.”

Mounjaro's Indian debut is redefining the obesity treatment discourse, ushering in a regulated, cost-effective option to the masses. While its affordability and accessibility have raised hope for millions, experts call for enhanced awareness and medical oversight. With the heat in the race intensifying, India's burgeoning weight-loss medication market is set to usher in a new age of access and innovation.