Mounjaro Price? Where to Buy Mounjaro? Top FAQs Answered!
1. Mounjaro Prices: Branded-drug comparison across countries
Mounjaro (generic name: Tirzepatide) was approved by the U.S. FDA for weight management in November 2023, sparking a global weight-loss trend. Many celebrities (such as Tesla CEO Elon Musk, actor Whoopi Goldberg, and singer-songwriter Meghan Trainor) have publicly acknowledged using Mounjaro for weight control.
These celebrity mentions have driven strong consumer interest in Mounjaro. This article shows the reference retail prices in major markets and helps you choose legal and more affordable purchase channels.
Below are the monthly self-pay reference prices for branded Mounjaro across markets.
Self-pay Mounjaro prices (all converted to USD)
| Dose (mg) | United States 🇺🇸 | China 🇨🇳 | Taiwan 🇹🇼 | Australia 🇦🇺 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2.5 | $1,080 | $240 | $410 | $260 |
| 5 | $1,080 | $390 | $450 | $300 |
| 7.5 | $1,080 | $540 | $490 | $390 |
| 10 | $1,080 | $680 | $530 | $390 |
| 12.5 | $1,080 | $810 | $570 | $480 |
| 15 | $1,080 | $940 | $610 | $480 |
Self-pay Mounjaro prices (all converted to TWD)
| Dose (mg) | United States 🇺🇸 | China 🇨🇳 | Taiwan 🇹🇼 | Australia 🇦🇺 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2.5 | $32,000 | $7,000 | $12,000 | $8,000 |
| 5 | $32,000 | $12,000 | $14,000 | $9,000 |
| 7.5 | $32,000 | $16,000 | $15,000 | $12,000 |
| 10 | $32,000 | $20,000 | $16,000 | $12,000 |
| 12.5 | $32,000 | $24,000 | $17,000 | $14,000 |
| 15 | $32,000 | $28,000 | $18,000 | $14,000 |
Self-pay Mounjaro prices (all converted to CNY)
| Dose (mg) | United States 🇺🇸 | China 🇨🇳 | Taiwan 🇹🇼 | Australia 🇦🇺 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0.25 | ¥3590 | ¥1010 | ¥1730 | ¥1870 |
| 0.5 | ¥3590 | ¥1150 | ¥1940 | ¥2090 |
| 1.0 | ¥3590 | ¥1150 | ¥2160 | ¥2300 |
| 1.7 | ¥3590 | ¥1730 | ¥2810 | ¥2810 |
| 2.4 | ¥3590 | ¥1730 | ¥3460 | ¥3530 |
As shown, U.S. Mounjaro prices are the highest, often exceeding $1,000 per month. However, Eli Lilly’s direct channel, Lilly Direct, offers single-dose vials of Mounjaro with monthly costs reduced to $399–$499.
Across the Asia-Pacific region (Taiwan, China, Australia, etc.), prices are generally lower than in the U.S., but since weight-loss use is typically not reimbursed, out-of-pocket spending remains high, which burdens long-term users.
2. Mounjaro Prices: Insurance coverage by country
Given the high cost of Mounjaro, the U.S., U.K., and Japan provide some coverage for weight-loss indications, but eligibility criteria are strict.
🇺🇸 United States: Some private plans cover it, but criteria are strict
Some private insurers cover Mounjaro for weight loss if BMI criteria are met and prior authorization is obtained. Patient out-of-pocket costs can be as low as $25 per month. However, commercial coverage is often restrictive and limited to 1–3 months, which is challenging for long-term therapy.
🇬🇧 United Kingdom: National Health Service (NHS) rolling out in phases
The NHS began a large-scale rollout in 2025 following approval by its watchdog. Severely obese patients (BMI ≥ 40, or ≥ 35 with comorbidities) can be referred by GPs to receive Mounjaro at no cost. The program targets 220,000 people over three years.
🇯🇵 Japan: Some patients covered under National Health Insurance (NHI)
Since February 2024, Japan has included Mounjaro in NHI for obesity treatment, but coverage requires strict criteria (BMI ≥ 27 with ≥ 2 obesity-related conditions, or BMI ≥ 35 with ≥ 1 condition).
3. Mounjaro vs. Wegovy: Efficacy and price comparison
The two most popular weight-loss injections are Mounjaro (active ingredient: Tirzepatide) and Wegovy (active ingredient: Semaglutide). Both are GLP-1–based therapies, but Mounjaro shows greater efficacy, especially for weight reduction.
According to the latest SURMOUNT-5 trial data:
- Mounjaro users lost about 20.2% body weight on average (~22.8 kg).
- Wegovy users lost about 13.7% on average (~15.0 kg).
- In other words, Mounjaro achieved ~6.5% more average weight loss.
Why does Mounjaro work better?
It uses a dual-target strategy, mimicking not only GLP-1 but also another incretin, GIP. This dual agonism enhances insulin secretion, prolongs satiety, reduces intake, and increases fat metabolism, producing stronger overall effects than GLP-1–only drugs.
Key differences between the two GLP-1 products
| Item | Mounjaro | Wegovy |
|---|---|---|
| Active ingredient | Tirzepatide | Semaglutide |
| Target receptors | GIP + GLP-1 dual receptors | GLP-1 single receptor |
| Manufacturer | Eli Lilly | Novo Nordisk |
| Dosing frequency | Once weekly, subcutaneous | Once weekly, subcutaneous |
| Weight loss at 68 weeks | ~20.2% | ~13.7% |
| Monthly cost without insurance (U.S.) | ~$1,080 | ~$1,350 |
| Self-pay discount (U.S.) | $399–$499 (Lilly Direct) | $499 (NovoCare) |
Trial data indicate better weight loss with Mounjaro than Wegovy, while prices are similar.
According to figures released by Lilly in August 2025, Mounjaro has reached a 57% U.S. market share, surpassing Wegovy (across weight-loss and diabetes indications), showing consumer preference for stronger efficacy at comparable prices.
4. What is compounded Mounjaro, and why you should not use it now
Between 2023 and 2024, supply shortages from Eli Lilly caused severe stockouts of Mounjaro. During that period, the U.S. market saw the rise of compounded Mounjaro (compounded Tirzepatide), prepared by compounding pharmacies using similar bulk ingredients. These versions were much cheaper than the brand and highly attractive to consumers. When a drug appears on the FDA drug shortage list, the FDA may temporarily allow qualified pharmacies (e.g., 503A pharmacies or 503B outsourcing facilities) to compound it to bridge supply gaps. Several telehealth platforms and pharmacies offered compounded Mounjaro for self-pay use.
However, compounded products are not produced under the brand’s authorization and do not undergo the FDA’s full approval process. They lack confirmed quality, dosage consistency, and aseptic assurances. The FDA has also warned that some compounded products may not contain the correct ingredients and could include impurities or be counterfeit.
By 2025, as Lilly’s supply stabilized, the FDA removed Mounjaro from the shortage list and formally prohibited pharmacies from compounding or selling compounded Mounjaro. Pharmacies and clinics that sold such products were required to withdraw them, with violations subject to enforcement and civil actions.
For consumers, the message is clear: there is no longer any legal compounded Mounjaro on the market. If you see Mounjaro being sold far below market price from unknown sources, it is likely illegal and may be harmful.
5. Where to buy safe and affordable Mounjaro? Consider generics from Bangladesh
What is a generic drug, and why is it cheaper?
A generic drug contains the same active ingredient, strength, route, and therapeutic effect as the brand, but is not produced by the originator. Generics are usually cheaper and help reduce healthcare costs for patients and health systems.
In principle, there should be no Mounjaro generics before 2036
Under U.S. exclusivity rules, new drugs enjoy at least 12 years of market protection to safeguard the originator’s R&D investment. Mounjaro’s key patents are expected to expire around 2036, so other companies cannot produce it before then.
However, Bangladeshi manufacturers are permitted to produce Mounjaro generics
Bangladesh is one of the world’s largest generic producers. Under WTO TRIPS flexibilities, its manufacturers may legally produce generics even while patents remain in force elsewhere.
Leading Bangladeshi generics maintain rigorous quality:
- WHO-recognized certifications (e.g., WHO-PQ, GMP)
- Formal approval by the Directorate General of Drug Administration (DGDA)
- Bioequivalence studies show efficacy equivalent to the brand
Further reading: Comprehensive look at Bangladesh’s pharma strength｜Why many new generics come from Bangladesh
Bangladesh-made Mounjaro costs about one-third of the brand, sometimes even less.
These generics often ship directly from the manufacturer without multiple intermediaries, making prices transparent and reasonable for self-pay patients.
The world’s first Mounjaro generic was launched by Bangladeshi manufacturer Ziska Pharma under the brand name Tizaro. Ziska has produced over 100,000 doses, mainly serving patients in Bangladesh and nearby Asian countries.
6. Where to buy Mounjaro? Channels for the branded drug
1) Hospitals and clinics
Mounjaro is prescription-only. Endocrinology, metabolism, or weight-management clinics can evaluate eligibility and prescribe. For weight loss, physicians assess BMI and comorbidities and monitor therapy over time.
2) Telehealth platforms
In some telehealth-advanced countries, patients can obtain a weight-loss prescription for Mounjaro via telemedicine and receive home delivery through the platform.
🇺🇸 United States: LilyDirect
Eli Lilly operates LilyDirect in the U.S., offering home delivery of Mounjaro. Note that LilyDirect itself does not provide consultations; patients need a prescription from a partner telehealth provider before delivery.
🇨🇳 China: Taobao and JD
Patients can obtain online prescriptions through the health services on these e-commerce platforms and have medications dispensed by partner pharmacies. Note that Taobao and JD do not support cross-border shipping; recipients must be located in China.
Note: In many Asian countries (Japan, Korea, Taiwan, etc.), regulations do not allow telehealth prescriptions for weight-loss use of Mounjaro.
7. Where to buy Mounjaro? Channels for generics
1) Cross-border purchasing platforms
Legitimate generics can be ordered via cross-border platforms such as Mediva Rx, which place orders directly with Bangladeshi manufacturers for air shipment to your door, typically within one week.
Many Asian jurisdictions (Japan, Taiwan, China, Australia, etc.) allow individuals to import small quantities of prescription drugs for personal use, usually up to a three-month supply, with resale prohibited.
For small-quantity purchases, customs often do not require a prescription or diagnosis letter and typically do not levy duties on personal medicines. Regulations vary by country; see the Cross-border purchasing guide for details.
When buying generics, always confirm that the source is an internationally certified manufacturer and that strengths match the brand to ensure efficacy and safety.
2) Pharmacies in Bangladesh
Some consumers travel to Bangladesh to purchase medicines in person and bring them home. This approach requires more time and money and is not suitable for everyone.
3) Private purchasing agents (not recommended)
Some agents bulk-buy generics from pharmacies in Bangladesh and resell them domestically. This violates local laws and exposes consumers to risks such as expired or counterfeit drugs.
More importantly, Mounjaro must be kept refrigerated. Prolonged room-temperature exposure can reduce potency or spoil the product. Private agents often cannot guarantee proper cold-chain transport and storage. Exercise caution.
Popular FAQ
Q1: How does Mounjaro work?
When we eat, the gut releases GLP-1, an incretin hormone that signals the brain that you are full, stimulates insulin release, and reduces further intake.
Mounjaro (active ingredient: Tirzepatide) is a GLP-1–based weight-loss injection developed by Eli Lilly. It prolongs satiety, suppresses appetite, and stabilizes blood glucose, providing strong medical-grade weight-management support.
Mounjaro is injected once weekly. It was first approved for type 2 diabetes and later for obesity/overweight as its weight-loss effect became evident.
Currently approved in:
- 🇺🇸 United States: Approved for diabetes and chronic weight management
- 🇪🇺 EU / 🇬🇧 U.K.: Approved for diabetes and weight control
- 🇹🇼 Taiwan: Approved for weight loss in June 2025
- 🇯🇵 Japan: Approved for diabetes; self-pay use for weight loss
- 🇨🇳 China: Clinical weight-loss use initiated in some hospitals
- 🇦🇺 Australia: Approved for diabetes and chronic obesity management
Q2: Why is Mounjaro so expensive?
It is an innovative dual-target therapy developed by Lilly. End-to-end R&D costs run into billions of dollars, and there are few comparable competitors. Before patents expire, originators maintain high prices to recover costs. Strong global demand and limited capacity also keep end-user prices high.
Q3: Will Mounjaro prices drop?
Large near-term price cuts are unlikely: (1) patents extend to about 2036, sustaining pricing power; (2) demand is rising while supply remains tight; (3) value-based pricing strategies deter brand price cuts.
That said, competition from new drugs (e.g., oral or more potent GLP-1/GIP agents) and payer or government negotiations could pressure prices lower over time.
Q4: What is the relationship between Mounjaro and Tirzepatide?
Mounjaro is Lilly’s first Tirzepatide injection, approved for type 2 diabetes and obesity. “Mounjaro” is the brand name; Tirzepatide is the active ingredient.
Q5: Why isn’t there an oral version?
Tirzepatide is a large peptide. Orally it is digested in the GI tract and cannot reach therapeutic blood levels, so subcutaneous injection is required. Making it oral would require overcoming stability, absorption, and dosing-volume hurdles. Lilly has not announced an oral version; only injections are available for now.
Q6: How do I inject it? How often? Does it hurt?
Mounjaro is injected subcutaneously once weekly. Inject into abdominal, thigh, or upper-arm fat. Keep a consistent weekly time and rotate sites. The needle is fine; most users report minimal pain.
Q7: Which has milder side effects, Mounjaro or Wegovy?
Common side effects of both include nausea, bloating, and constipation, especially early or during dose escalation. Most people adapt within weeks. Observational data suggest Mounjaro’s side-effect rate is slightly lower and often perceived as milder.
Q8: Are generics less effective?
No. Generics that pass international bioequivalence studies have equivalent absorption and therapeutic effects and meet safety standards.
Q9: Which dose should I use?
Start at 2.5 mg and monitor response. Titrate to 5, 7.5, 10, or 15 mg per physician guidance. Not everyone needs the highest dose; individualize therapy.
Q10: Will I regain weight after stopping?
If diet and lifestyle lapse after discontinuation, weight can rebound. Whether using brand or generics, sustained diet control and exercise are essential for long-term management.
If you have further questions about Mounjaro or generic options, contact the Mediva Rx team. We provide safe, compliant, and affordable access to help you start your health journey.
Disclaimer: This information is for reference only. Follow your physician’s advice and the official label and current research when choosing therapy.
