Zydus, Lupin Partner to Co-Market Semaglutide Injection in India

Zydus Lifesciences Ltd has entered into a licensing and supply agreement with Lupin Ltd to co-market semaglutide injection in India with an aim to expand access to advanced therapies for metabolic disorders, the company said in a press release.

Under the agreement, Lupin will have semi-exclusive rights to co-market the semaglutide injection in India under the brands Semanext and Livarise, the company said. Zydus will market the product under the brands Semaglyn, Mashema and Alterme, it added.

The companies said the partnership combines Zydus’ product development capabilities with Lupin’s strong domestic distribution network to improve access to the therapy across India.

As part of the deal, Lupin will pay Zydus upfront licensing fees along with milestone-linked payments based on pre-defined targets.
The semaglutide injection comes with a patient-friendly reusable pen device designed to simplify administration and improve treatment adherence.

The therapy is used for treating adults with type 2 diabetes, particularly where blood sugar levels are not adequately controlled through existing treatments. It can also be used as a monotherapy in patients who cannot take metformin or alongside other diabetes medicines.

In addition, the drug is indicated for chronic weight management in adults with obesity or those who are overweight with related health conditions such as hypertension, type 2 diabetes, or dyslipidaemia, the company said. 

Zydus said the partnership will help expand the reach of the therapy, while Lupin said it strengthens its portfolio in cardio-metabolic treatments and supports efforts to address unmet patient needs in India.