Eli Lilly to Introduce Weight-Loss and Anti-Diabetes Medication in India Next Year

Eli Lilly, the US-based pharmaceutical giant, is gearing up to launch its weight-loss and anti-diabetes drug, Mounjaro (Tirzepatide), in India by 2025. This groundbreaking weekly injectable drug has already gained traction globally for its effectiveness in treating type 2 diabetes and obesity. Mounjaro is set to compete with Ozempic, a similar product manufactured by Novo Nordisk, which has not yet been launched in India.

Mounjaro: The Key Features of the Drug

Mounjaro is designed to be a weekly injectable medication that targets both type 2 diabetes and obesity. This dual-action treatment works by enhancing the body’s insulin response and promoting significant weight loss. In clinical trials, Tirzepatide showed promising results, with patients experiencing an average weight loss of 15% to 20% of their body weight. This makes it an important step forward in treating these chronic conditions, which affect millions in India.

The Competition: Mounjaro vs. Ozempic

Mounjaro’s primary competition in the market is Ozempic (semaglutide), another injectable drug that works similarly by controlling blood sugar levels and assisting with weight loss. However, Ozempic has not yet been approved for use in India. Despite this, Eli Lilly’s Mounjaro is quickly gaining popularity in global markets. In the first quarter of this year, Mounjaro generated $1.8 billion in sales, while Ozempic, approved by the US FDA in 2017, generated $4.3 billion in sales.

Pricing and Regulatory Approvals for India

Eli Lilly’s Mounjaro is anticipated to be priced significantly higher in India than in other markets, where it is sold at $1,000 per shot (over ₹84,000). The company has yet to finalize its pricing strategy for the Indian market, although it plans to align it with the drug’s efficacy and the health and economic burden it aims to reduce for those battling type 2 diabetes and obesity.

According to Vineet Gupta, Associate Vice President and Managing Director of Eli Lilly India, Mounjaro has already received marketing authorization in India as of July 2024. The company is currently pursuing additional approvals, with the drug expected to be available to Indian patients by 2025.

India: A Key Market for Eli Lilly

India, often referred to as the “diabetes capital of the world,” is a significant focus for Eli Lilly. With over 21 crore people suffering from diabetes in India alone, Mounjaro is expected to have a substantial impact on improving the health of the population. Eli Lilly has committed to expanding its portfolio in India, targeting key areas such as cardiometabolic health, oncology, immunology, and neuroscience.

Gupta emphasized that India is a “key strategic market” for the company and that they are dedicated to bringing innovations like Mounjaro to help address the unmet medical needs of the population.

Addressing India’s Obesity Crisis

The India Economic Survey 2024 highlighted that obesity is a growing concern in India, with the obesity rate among adults tripling over recent years. Obesity is closely linked to several other health issues, including type 2 diabetes and heart disease. To combat this, Eli Lilly’s Mounjaro could be a vital treatment option, as it addresses both obesity and type 2 diabetes in a single, effective medication.

According to Gupta, individuals with obesity need access to comprehensive care, including lifestyle changes, medications, and surgical interventions. Stigma surrounding obesity is a significant barrier preventing individuals from seeking the treatment they need, and Mounjaro could help change this narrative by offering a more effective solution.

Expert Opinions: Endocrinologists Optimistic but Cautious

Dr. Anoop Misra, Chairman of Fortis C-Doc Hospital, believes that both Semaglutide and Tirzepatide represent significant advancements in the treatment of obesity and type 2 diabetes. Dr. Misra notes that Tirzepatide may offer slightly better weight loss benefits and more effective blood glucose control compared to Semaglutide.

However, both doctors emphasized the importance of using these medications responsibly. Dr. Ambrish Mithal, Chairman of Max Healthcare, echoed similar sentiments, cautioning that the drug should not be misused as a cosmetic solution for weight loss. He stressed that it should only be used under the supervision of a healthcare professional due to its potential side effects.

The Road Ahead for Mounjaro in India

The launch of Mounjaro in India is expected to open a new chapter in the treatment of type 2 diabetes and obesity. Eli Lilly’s commitment to offering this drug at a reasonable price, combined with its significant investment in manufacturing, aims to address the growing demand for effective treatments in the country.

Mounjaro is likely to be a game-changer for millions in India, providing a long-term solution to two major health issues: diabetes and obesity.