Eli Lilly and Company (India) has issued a high alert warning to patients and healthcare providers following a major crackdown on counterfeit medicines in Haryana.
The pharmaceutical company has urged the public to exercise extreme caution when purchasing Mounjaro (tirzepatide), after fake versions of the medication were found circulating in the market.
Massive raid in Gurugram uncovers fake injections
The warning follows a significant enforcement action by Haryana State Food and Drug Administration. In a recent raid in Gurugram, authorities seized counterfeit injections worth approximately Rs 56 lakh.
The seized products, which falsely carried the Mounjaro brand name, were confirmed to be sophisticated fakes.
Eli Lilly clarified that these items:
- Were not manufactured by Lilly
- Did not originate from the company's authorised supply chain
- Lacked the rigorous quality controls required for patient safety
While most of these counterfeit products have been seized by investigators, the incident highlights a growing threat to public health.
Critical warning on patient safety
Winslow Tucker, President and General Manager of Eli Lilly and Company (India), commended the regulatory authorities while emphasising the gravity of the situation. "Counterfeit products may pose significant risks to patient safety and public health. We will continue to take steps to protect patients from the risks of counterfeit and other unsafe products worldwide, including working with regulators and law enforcement," he said.
Lilly also clarified that its patented tirzepatide molecule is officially marketed in India under two brand names: Mounjaro and Yurpeak.
How to spot a fake: Red flags for patients
Authentic Mounjaro packaging is highly specific. Lilly advises patients and caregivers to remain vigilant for the following signs of falsified medicine:
Unauthorised sources: Products purchased from unlicensed online vendors or "grey market" sellers
Tampered packaging: Boxes that appear resealed, damaged, or inconsistent with official branding
Missing data: Lack of a batch number, expiry date, or manufacturer details
Printing errors: Look for spelling errors, unfamiliar logos, or labels that differ from previous prescriptions
Guidelines for safe procurement
To ensure patient safety, the manufacturer reiterates that genuine Lilly products should only be obtained through authorised distributors and licensed pharmacies, with a valid medical prescription.
"If you suspect you have received a counterfeit product, or wish to verify an authorised distributor, contact Lilly India:
Toll-free helpline: 1800 123 0021
Email: mailbox_in-gps@lilly.com," the company said.
Despite the seizure, Eli Lilly confirmed that the supply of genuine medication through its verified channels continues without interruption.