Cipla to Market Eli Lilly’s Weight-Loss Drug as Yurpeak in India
In a significant development for India’s pharmaceutical market, Cipla has entered into an agreement with Eli Lilly to sell the latter’s blockbuster weight-loss drug under the brand name Yurpeak. The partnership was officially announced on Thursday.
Key Takeaways
- Cipla will market Eli Lilly’s weight-loss drug as Yurpeak in India
- Yurpeak will be available as a once-weekly pre-filled injector pen
- The drug will be priced the same as Lilly’s Mounjaro
- Six dose strengths will be available ranging from 2.5 mg to 15 mg
Product Details and Availability
Yurpeak will be manufactured by Eli Lilly while Cipla will handle marketing and distribution in the Indian market. The medication will be offered as a once-weekly pre-filled injector pen, identical to Lilly’s Mounjaro Kwikpen device. This format enables healthcare providers to create personalized treatment plans tailored to individual patient requirements.
The drug will be available in six different dose strengths: 2.5 mg, 5 mg, 7.5 mg, 10 mg, 12.5 mg, and 15 mg. Importantly, Yurpeak will carry the same price point as Mounjaro, making it accessible to the same patient demographic.
Mounjaro’s Successful India Launch
Eli Lilly initially launched Mounjaro in India in late March, offering the drug for both diabetes and obesity treatment in 2.5 mg and 5 mg vials. The company subsequently received approval from India’s drug regulator for the Kwikpen device in June. The product demonstrated remarkable market performance, with sales more than doubling within months of its initial launch.
How Tirzepatide Works
The active ingredient, tirzepatide, belongs to the GLP-1 receptor agonist class of therapies. These medications work by helping control blood sugar levels and slowing digestion, which creates a feeling of fullness that lasts longer, thereby supporting weight management efforts.
