Mounjaro is now available in a single-dose vial that activates two key hormones, GIP and GLP-1
US-based pharmaceutical giant Eli Lily has launched the popular anti-diabetes and obesity drug Mounjaro in India, after receiving marketing authorization from the drug regulator, the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO). The drug is used for type 2 diabetes and keeping weight under control.
Mounjaro is now available in a single-dose vial that activates two key hormones—GIP and GLP-1—that control both your blood sugar levels and appetite, leading to weight loss. However, it is meant to be used alongside a healthy diet and regular workouts.
Available as a 2.5 mg vial, Mounjaro will be priced at Rs. 3,500, and the 5 mg vial will be available at Rs 4,375. "This India-specific pricing reflects Lilly’s commitment to expanding access to innovative treatments in the country," the company spokesperson said.
How does Mounjaro work?
According to experts, Mounjaro works to help keep your blood sugar levels from getting too high, in the following ways:
- It increases the amount of insulin in your body when your blood sugar levels are getting higher.
- It prevents your liver from releasing stored sugar
- It slows the absorption of things you eat and drink.
The drug selectively binds and activates the hormone receptors, improving insulin secretion, reducing glucagon levels, enhancing insulin sensitivity, and delaying gastric emptying. It also influences appetite regulation, fat mass reduction, and lipid utilisation.
In a US study of tripeptide in those with obesity, known as the SURMOUNT-1 clinical trial, Mounjaro led to an average weight loss of 21.8 kg at the highest dose (15 mg) and 15.4 kg at the lowest dose (5mg) over 72 weeks. Additionally, one in three patients lost over 25 per cent of their body weight, a significantly higher percentage than the 1.5 per cent seen in the placebo group.
Side effects
What are the common side effects of Mounjaro?
According to experts, the most common side effects of Mounjaro include:
- Nausea
- Diarrhoea
- Decreased appetite
- Vomiting
- Constipation
- Upset stomach or stomach pain
Serious side effects of Mounjaro
While less common, the most serious side effects of Mounjaro are:
Mounjaro may cause a severe allergy. Doctors advise you to stop using it and get help right away if you have a serious allergic reaction, like:
- Breathing problems or wheezing
- Racing heart
- Fever or general ill feeling
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Swelling on the face, lips, mouth, tongue, or throat
- Trouble swallowing
- Itching and skin rash
- Nausea or vomiting
- Dizziness
- Stomach cramps
- Joint pain
Experts say Mounjaro may lead to thyroid tumours, a few of which can be cancerous. It may also lead to inflammation of the pancreas, known as pancreatitis. Stop taking Mounjaro and call your healthcare provider right away if you have symptoms of pancreatitis, including vomiting or severe pain in the upper part of your belly that travels to your back.
Repeated usage of Mounjaro can also lead to kidney damage, especially if you are dehydrated (as doctors say it can happen if you are not drinking enough water or with severe vomiting or diarrhoea). Call your doctor right away if you have any of the following symptoms of kidney damage:
- Reduced need to pee
- Swelling in your feet, ankles, or legs
- Weakness or unusual tiredness
- Difficulty catching your breath or chest pain/pressure
- Confusion
- Nausea
- Seizures
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