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New Delhi, June 12 — India has officially approved and launched Mounjaro (tirzepatide), a groundbreaking injectable medication developed by Eli Lilly and Company for the treatment of Type 2 diabetes and obesity. The drug has received clearance from the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) and is now available in the Indian market.
Mounjaro represents a significant advancement in metabolic health management. It is the first drug in India to target both GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide) and GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) receptors, offering a novel dual-action approach to combat the dual burden of diabetes and obesity. This is particularly relevant given the rising prevalence of these conditions: a government survey from 2019–2021 found that 24% of women and nearly 23% of men between 15 and 49 years of age were overweight or obese—a notable increase from previous years.
Winselow Tucker, President and General Manager of Lilly India, emphasized the growing public health challenge posed by obesity and diabetes. He highlighted the company’s commitment to working with the Indian government and healthcare sector to enhance awareness and improve disease management.
Availability and Pricing
Mounjaro is available in six dosage strengths, from 2.5 mg to 15 mg per 0.5 mL injection. The starting dose of 2.5 mg is priced at ₹3,500 per vial, while the 5 mg vial costs ₹4,375. Depending on the required dosage, the monthly cost ranges from ₹14,000 to ₹17,500—significantly lower than in the United States, where a single fill can exceed $1,000.
Expert Opinions and Warnings
Endocrinologists have welcomed Mounjaro’s introduction but cautioned against misuse. Dr. Ambrish Mithal, Chairman and Head of Endocrinology at Max Healthcare, described the drug as a major step forward in diabetes and obesity treatment. He noted that similar GLP-1 receptor agonists, such as semaglutide (marketed as Ozempic and Wegovy), have also demonstrated strong effects in weight loss and metabolic regulation. However, Dr. Mithal stressed that these medications should be used only under medical supervision and not as cosmetic quick fixes.
Eli Lilly has issued specific warnings: Mounjaro is contraindicated for individuals with a history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2). It should also be avoided by those with a history of allergic reactions to tirzepatide or any of its components. Patients are advised to seek immediate medical attention if they experience symptoms such as lumps in the neck, hoarseness, difficulty swallowing, or shortness of breath.
Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, stomach pain, decreased appetite, and indigestion. The drug is not recommended for children under 18, as its safety in this group has not been established.
Conclusion
Mounjaro’s launch in India brings renewed hope for millions managing Type 2 diabetes and obesity. However, healthcare professionals and the public are urged to prioritize medical guidance and avoid unsupervised use.
Disclaimer:
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting any new medication or treatment. The information provided is based on available data as of June 2025 and may be subject to change. Eli Lilly and Company and other pharmaceutical brands are trademarks of their respective owners. The author and publisher are not responsible for any decisions made based on the content of this article.
