India's First Weight-Loss Drug Arrives: Eli Lilly Launches Mounjaro; Know How Much It Will Cost You

India has taken a major step in the fight against obesity and diabetes with the launch of Mounjaro, a groundbreaking drug from American pharmaceutical giant Eli Lilly and Co. The company announced the rollout of the tripeptide, sold under the brand name Mounjaro, following marketing approval from the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO).

This launch positions Eli Lilly ahead of competitors in a country that ranks third globally in obesity prevalence. India is home to approximately 100 million people affected by both obesity and diabetes, highlighting the urgent need for effective treatments.

How much will it cost?

Mounjaro will be available in single-dose vials, with a 2.5 mg dose priced at Rs 3,500 ($40.5) and a 5 mg dose costing Rs 4,375. This pricing is significantly lower than in the U.S., where a 2.5 mg vial costs around $568—nearly 14 times more.

"This India-specific pricing reflects Lilly’s commitment to expanding access to innovative treatments in the country," said a company spokesperson in a statement.

What it means to Eli Lilly

With the growing demand for weight-loss solutions, many individuals in India have resorted to purchasing obesity drugs from unregulated sources. Mounjaro’s official entry into the market grants Eli Lilly an early lead, as its main competitor, Novo Nordisk, has yet to confirm a launch date for its obesity drug, Wegovy, as reported by Bloomberg.

"The dual burden of obesity and type 2 diabetes is rapidly emerging as a major public health challenge in India," said Winselow Tucker, President of Lilly India. "Lilly is committed to collaborating with the government and industry to promote awareness and improve the prevention and management of these diseases."