Eli Lilly received Indian regulatory approval for pre-filled injector pens of its blockbuster weight-loss drug Mounjaro, intensifying competition with Novo Nordisk's recently launched Wegovy in the world's most populous nation.

The Central Drugs Standard Control Organization approved Mounjaro KwikPen in six dosage strengths (2.5mg to 15mg) for once-weekly use, expanding options beyond the vials launched in March. This approval enables "a more personalized approach to treatment," according to Lilly India President Winselow Tucker.

The timing directly challenges Novo Nordisk's Wegovy launch earlier this week, which also features multiple dose strengths in easy-to-use pen devices. India presents enormous market potential given its ranking among the top three countries globally for obesity rates and rising diabetes cases.

Both companies face future competition from generic drugmakers developing cheaper semaglutide versions as patents expire next year.