With the increasing popularity of weight-loss and diabetes medications worldwide, US pharmaceutical giant Eli Lilly has introduced its breakthrough drug in India. As the country battles high obesity and diabetes rates, this launch marks a significant development in the healthcare sector.Drugs designed to treat type 2 diabetes are gaining rapid traction, primarily due to their weight-loss benefits. These medications belong to the class of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists, which replicate the effects of naturally occurring gut hormones-glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) and GLP-1.These hormones help regulate blood sugar levels by affecting insulin and glucagon secretion while also promoting satiety and reducing food cravings. This mechanism makes GLP-1 receptor agonists effective for weight management, contributing to their soaring demand across the globe.Mounjaro enters the Indian marketEli Lilly launched (tirzepatide) in India on March 20, 2024. The drug is administered via a weekly injection under the skin and is recommended alongside a structured diet and exercise regimen.As per Reuters, is priced at Rs 3,500 for a 2.5 mg vial and Rs 4,375 for a 5 mg vial, making it a costly but potentially transformative treatment. Depending on dosage, a patient may spend up to Rs 17,500 per month.In the United States, tirzepatide is marketed under the brand name for obesity treatment, while in Europe and the UK, it is available as for both diabetes and weight management.Mounjaro vs. Ozempic – Which One is Better?Another popular diabetes and weight-loss drug, Ozempic (semaglutide), manufactured by Novo Nordisk, has already established a strong presence in India. Unlike Mounjaro, which activates both GLP-1 and GIP receptors, Ozempic targets only GLP-1 receptors.According to Dr. Jagadish Hiremath, a public health expert, Mounjaro offers superior glucose regulation and metabolic benefits due to its dual action. This makes it more effective for weight loss compared to Ozempic.Comparing their effectivenessMounjaro has shown superior weight-loss results, with clinical trials indicating up to 20% body weight reduction, as reported by Scientific American.Ozempic has demonstrated a weight loss of around 15% in a 68-week trial, published in the New England Journal of Medicine.Doctors often prescribe Ozempic to reduce cardiovascular risks, including heart attacks and strokes, making it the preferred option for patients with heart conditions.Social media buzzBoth drugs have gained viral popularity on social media platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube, where influencers and celebrities promote them as weight-loss breakthroughs. Many doctors are now prescribing Mounjaro off-label for non-diabetic patients seeking rapid weight loss.Choosing between Mounjaro and Ozempic depends on individual health goals. While Mounjaro appears more effective for weight loss and blood sugar control, Ozempic offers additional cardiovascular benefits. As these drugs become more accessible, patients should consult healthcare providers to determine the best option for their needs.