What Countries Is Mounjaro Available In? A Simple Guide

Mounjaro (tirzepatide) is a breakthrough medication for type 2 diabetes and weight management. Approved in several countries, it helps control blood sugar and supports weight loss.

If you’re wondering what countries Mounjaro is available in, this article provides a clear, detailed guide. We’ll explore its global availability, approval status, and how to access it.

What Is Mounjaro?

Mounjaro is an injectable drug developed by Eli Lilly. It mimics two hormones, GLP-1 and GIP, to regulate blood sugar and reduce appetite. Approved for type 2 diabetes, it’s also used off-label for weight loss. Its dual action makes it effective for many patients.

The drug comes in pre-filled pens with doses ranging from 2.5 mg to 15 mg. It’s taken weekly via subcutaneous injection. Mounjaro has gained popularity due to its ability to lower blood sugar and promote significant weight loss.

Global Approvals and Availability

Mounjaro’s availability varies by country due to regulatory approvals. It’s approved for type 2 diabetes in many regions and for weight management in some. Below, we detail what countries Mounjaro is available in, based on current data.

United States

Mounjaro was approved by the FDA in May 2022 for type 2 diabetes. It’s widely available in pharmacies under the brand name Mounjaro. For weight loss, it’s sold as Zepbound, approved in November 2023. You need a prescription from a healthcare provider.

Pharmacies like CVS and Walgreens stock Mounjaro, though shortages occurred in 2023. The shortage ended in October 2024, improving access. Patients can also order through online pharmacies with a valid prescription.

European Union

The European Medicines Agency approved Mounjaro in September 2022 for type 2 diabetes. It’s available across EU countries, including Germany, France, and Spain, in pre-filled KwikPen presentations.

In April 2024, the EU authorized Mounjaro for weight management in adults with obesity or overweight with comorbidities.

Availability varies by country due to local regulations. For example, Germany and Poland launched Mounjaro before others. Patients need a prescription, and some countries prioritize supply for diabetes over weight loss.

United Kingdom

Mounjaro launched in the UK in February 2024 for type 2 diabetes and weight management. It’s available through NHS prescriptions for eligible patients and private pharmacies like Superdrug. The UK’s NICE recommended it for weight loss in June 2024.

Private prescriptions cost around £189-£215 for a four-week supply. Demand is high, so NHS patients may get priority. Check with local or online pharmacies for stock.

Canada

Health Canada approved Mounjaro in November 2022 for type 2 diabetes. It’s available in pharmacies with a prescription, typically as a KwikPen. Weight management use is off-label, as Zepbound isn’t yet approved in Canada.

Patients can access Mounjaro through local or online pharmacies like Canada Pharmacy. Supply is generally stable, but confirm availability with your pharmacist.

Australia

Mounjaro was approved by the Therapeutic Goods Administration in December 2022 for type 2 diabetes. In September 2024, it gained approval for chronic weight management. It’s available as KwikPens, but vial shortages persist until August 2025.

Patients need a prescription, and supply may vary. Contact your doctor or pharmacist to ensure access, especially for vials.

Switzerland

Switzerland approved Mounjaro in 2022 for type 2 diabetes via the Access Consortium. It’s available as pre-filled pens in doses up to 15 mg. Weight management use is off-label but growing in popularity.

Prescriptions are required, and availability is stable. Pharmacies or doctors can provide guidance on accessing Mounjaro.

Japan

Mounjaro received approval in Japan in September 2022 for type 2 diabetes. It’s distributed by Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma using the ATEOS autoinjector. It’s available in pharmacies with a prescription.

Japan conducted specific trials to confirm efficacy for its population. Weight loss use is off-label but increasingly common.

Saudi Arabia

Mounjaro is approved in Saudi Arabia for type 2 diabetes and weight management. It’s available in government hospitals and private clinics with a prescription. Supply may differ between facilities, so check with your provider.

Local pharmacies may stock Mounjaro, but availability can vary. Online options are limited, so consult your doctor for access.

Other Countries

Mounjaro’s availability is expanding globally, but data is limited for some regions. Here’s a quick overview of other countries where Mounjaro is reportedly available:

• United Arab Emirates: Available with a prescription; some reports suggest over-the-counter access in certain emirates, but Dubai requires a prescription.
• Poland: Launched before the UK, available for diabetes and weight loss with a prescription.
• Singapore: Approved via the Access Consortium, available for diabetes with a prescription.

For countries not listed, Mounjaro may be accessed through special import programs if it’s not locally approved. Platforms like everyone.org help patients import it from approved countries with a prescription.

Countries Where Mounjaro Is Not Available

Mounjaro isn’t approved everywhere due to regulatory delays or high costs. In some countries, like India or Brazil, it was tested in trials but not yet approved for public use. In others, like Mexico, similar drugs like Ozempic are more common.

If Mounjaro isn’t available in your country, ask your doctor about alternatives like semaglutide (Ozempic or Wegovy). Import options may exist, but they require a prescription and compliance with local laws.

How to Access Mounjaro Globally

Accessing Mounjaro requires a prescription in most countries. Here’s how to get it, regardless of where you are:

• Consult a doctor: Discuss your eligibility for Mounjaro based on diabetes or weight management needs.
• Check pharmacies: Local or online pharmacies can confirm stock and pricing.
• Explore insurance: In the US, insurance may cover Mounjaro; in other countries, check public health programs.
• Consider imports: If unavailable locally, services like everyone.org can help import Mounjaro legally.
• Travel precautions: If traveling, carry a doctor’s note and store Mounjaro between 2°C and 8°C.

Always verify local regulations, as some countries restrict certain medications. For example, unrefrigerated Mounjaro must be discarded after 30 days above 30°C.

Mounjaro Availability by Region

The table below summarizes Mounjaro’s availability in key regions, including approval status and primary use. This helps clarify what countries Mounjaro is available in.

This table reflects data up to April 2025. Availability may change as more countries approve Mounjaro.

Challenges in Accessing Mounjaro

Global demand for Mounjaro has led to supply challenges. In Australia, vial shortages persist until August 2025, though KwikPens are available. In the US, shortages eased in 2024, but high costs ($1,023/month without insurance) limit access.

In some countries, Mounjaro isn’t subsidized, making it expensive. For example, Australia doesn’t cover it under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme. Crowdfunding or patient support programs may help cover costs in such cases.

Tips for Patients Seeking Mounjaro

If you’re trying to find Mounjaro, these tips can help:

• Call pharmacies ahead to confirm stock.
• Ask your doctor about dose adjustments to manage side effects.
• Check insurance or public health coverage for cost savings.
• Join online support groups for updates on availability.
• Use a travel sharps bin for safe needle disposal when abroad.

Patience is key, as supply and approval statuses evolve. Always consult a healthcare provider before starting Mounjaro.

Summary

Mounjaro is available in several countries, including the US, EU, UK, Canada, Australia, Switzerland, Japan, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE, primarily for type 2 diabetes and, in some, for weight management.

Availability requires a prescription, and supply can vary due to high demand or shortages. If Mounjaro isn’t available locally, alternatives like Ozempic or import options may be considered. By working with your doctor and checking local regulations, you can access Mounjaro where it’s approved.

FAQ

What countries is Mounjaro available in for weight loss?

Mounjaro is approved for weight loss in the US (as Zepbound), EU, UK, Australia, and Saudi Arabia. A prescription is required. Availability may vary by pharmacy.

Can I get Mounjaro without a prescription?

No, Mounjaro requires a prescription in most countries. Some reports suggest over-the-counter access in parts of the UAE, but this is unconfirmed. Always consult a doctor.

Why is Mounjaro unavailable in some countries?

Regulatory delays, high costs, or supply shortages limit availability. Some countries haven’t approved it yet. Import programs may help with access.

How can I access Mounjaro if it’s not approved in my country?

Use services like everyone.org to import Mounjaro legally with a prescription. Check local laws and consult your doctor. Costs may be high without insurance.

Is Mounjaro covered by insurance globally?

Coverage varies. In the US, some plans cover it; in Australia, it’s not subsidized. Check with your insurer or public health system for details.

Sources

• European Medicines Agency: Mounjaro
• Therapeutic Goods Administration: Mounjaro