Eli Lilly has secured approval to launch its drug tirzepatide, branded as Mounjaro, in Hong Kong. The approval covers the use of Mounjaro for both long-term weight management and the treatment of type 2 diabetes. The company anticipates making the drug available to patients as early as the end of this year.
Mounjaro will be administered via a Kwikpen device. This launch is particularly significant as it potentially positions Mounjaro as the first weight loss drug of its kind to be available in the China region, according to Bloomberg News.
The approval represents a notable expansion of Mounjaro's market reach, addressing two critical health concerns: diabetes and obesity. Type 2 diabetes is a growing global health issue, with significant prevalence in Asia. Similarly, the need for effective weight management solutions is increasing worldwide, driven by rising obesity rates and associated health risks.
Tirzepatide is a once-weekly injectable medication that works by activating both the GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) and GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide) receptors. These receptors play key roles in regulating blood sugar levels and appetite. Clinical trials have demonstrated tirzepatide's efficacy in improving glycemic control and promoting weight loss in individuals with type 2 diabetes and/or obesity.
