Eli Lilly is planning to launch its blockbuster type 2 diabetes drug Mounjaro (tirzepatide) in India as early as next year, according to e Reuters. Mounjaro is currently under review by Indian health authorities, with Lilly having submitted data from its global clinical trials that included Indian patients.
Tirzepatide, the active ingredient in Mounjaro, is a dual GLP-1 and GIP receptor agonist that helps improve glycemic control in diabetes by mimicking the GLP-1 hormone to promote insulin secretion and slow gastric emptying. It also suppresses appetite, leading to weight loss. First approved in May 2022 for diabetes, tirzepatide gained FDA approval in November 2023 for obesity under the brand name Zepbound.
By entering India, Lilly aims to tap into a massive patient population – the country officially has over 77 million adults with type 2 diabetes and another 25 million at high risk according to data from the World Health Organization. At Amritt our research has shown that the official numbers understate the problem and the real incidence may be twice that.
Obesity is also an increasing issue, with a 2023 Lancet study showing 40% of Indian women have abdominal obesity compared to 12% of men.
In an interview, Lilly CEO David Ricks called India “a promising market for anti-obesity drugs” and said the company is “open to collaborations” to expand patient access, provided it aligns with Lilly’s interests and ability to meet demand.
The news comes shortly after Novo Nordisk announced plans to launch its own weight-loss drug Wegovy (semaglutide) in India by 2026. It also follows Indian pharma giants such as Sun Pharma, Cipla, Dr Reddy’s and Lupin indicating interest in the weight-loss market. Sun is developing a novel therapy while others plan to pursue generic versions of drugs such as Wegovy.
