Eli Lilly’s Mounjaro (tirzepatide) has recently been introduced in India, offering a new option for weight loss and type 2 diabetes management. This medication represents a significant advancement in metabolic health treatments, combining efficacy with affordability.
What is Mounjaro?
Mounjaro is an injectable prescription medication designed to aid weight loss and manage type 2 diabetes. It functions as a dual-agonist, activating both glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptors. This dual action enhances insulin secretion, regulates blood sugar levels, and reduces appetite more effectively than medications targeting a single receptor. citeturn0search2
Availability and Pricing in India
In India, Mounjaro is available through select pharmacies and hospitals by prescription. The pricing is as follows:
- 2.5 mg vial: ₹3,500
- 5 mg vial: ₹4,375
A month’s therapy, depending on the prescribed dosage, ranges between ₹14,000 and ₹17,500. This pricing is significantly lower than in the United States, where monthly costs can reach ₹86,000 to ₹1,00,000. citeturn0search0
How Does Mounjaro Work?
Mounjaro mimics the effects of GIP and GLP-1 hormones, which play crucial roles in regulating appetite, blood sugar, and insulin secretion. By activating both receptors, Mounjaro offers a comprehensive approach to managing blood sugar levels and promoting weight loss. Clinical trials have demonstrated significant weight loss among users, with participants losing an average of 15.4 kg at the 5 mg dose and 21.8 kg at the 15 mg dose over 72 weeks, alongside diet and exercise. citeturn0search0
Who Should Use Mounjaro?
Mounjaro is prescribed for adults with:
- Obesity (BMI of 30 or more)
- Overweight individuals (BMI of 27 or more) with weight-related health issues
- Type 2 diabetes requiring improved blood sugar control
However, it is not recommended for individuals with a history of thyroid cancer, pancreatitis, pregnant or breastfeeding women, or those with severe gastrointestinal conditions. citeturn0search0
Potential Side Effects
Common side effects include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Loss of appetite
Serious risks may involve pancreatitis, gallbladder disease, kidney problems, vision changes, and thyroid tumors. Patients should consult healthcare providers to weigh the benefits against potential risks before starting the medication. citeturn0search0
Mounjaro vs. Ozempic
Both Mounjaro and Ozempic (semaglutide) are GLP-1 receptor agonists used for managing type 2 diabetes and promoting weight loss. Mounjaro’s dual-action mechanism targets both GIP and GLP-1 receptors, potentially offering greater efficacy in blood sugar control and weight loss compared to Ozempic, which targets only GLP-1 receptors. Clinical studies have shown that Mounjaro leads to more significant reductions in hemoglobin A1C levels and greater weight loss compared to Trulicity (dulaglutide), another GLP-1 receptor agonist. citeturn0news12
Conclusion
Mounjaro’s introduction in India provides an effective and affordable option for individuals struggling with obesity and type 2 diabetes. Its dual-action mechanism offers enhanced efficacy in managing blood sugar levels and promoting weight loss. However, it is essential to consult healthcare professionals to determine suitability, understand potential side effects, and establish appropriate treatment plans tailored to individual health needs.
navlistComparing Mounjaro and Trulicity for Type 2 Diabetes Managementturn0news12