Mounjaro launched in India as a weight-loss option

Eli Lilly has launched Mounjaro, a new drug for diabetes and weight loss, in India. The medication is priced at Rs 3,500 for a 2.5 mg vial. Features like its ability to treat obesity and diabetes make it a significant addition to India's healthcare options. Mounjaro is part of a growing group of drugs known as glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists. These drugs help control blood sugar and assist with weight loss in obese patients. The entry of Mounjaro into India adds to existing treatments like Ozempic, which have already gained popularity. Mounjaro works by activating both GLP-1 and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) hormones, which help regulate blood sugar. Ozempic, on the other hand, only activates GLP-1. This difference might give Mounjaro an advantage in both diabetes management and weight loss. Both medications are administered once a week via injection. People can expect monthly costs of up to Rs 17,500, depending on their doctor's prescriptions. The launch is seen as a way to improve access to innovative treatments in India. Clinical trials suggest that Mounjaro may help patients lose over 20% of their body weight, while Ozempic can lead to a reduction of nearly 15%. However, doctors often recommend Ozempic for its benefits in reducing the risk of heart problems. Despite their differences, both drugs have side effects like nausea and diarrhea. Social media has also popularized Mounjaro as a weight-loss solution, with reports of public figures using the drug for rapid results.