Indian pharmaceutical giant Cipla Ltd said it would sell Eli Lilly and Co’s insulin glargine in India.
Insulin glargine is a long-acting basal insulin analogue, given once daily to help control the blood sugar level of those with diabetes.
Unlike regular insulin shots — which have to be taken multiple times a day — basal insulin releases insulin slowly into the bloodstream.
“Under this agreement, Lilly’s Basaglar, manufactured by Lilly, will be marketed and distributed in India by Cipla,” the Indian company said.
Luca Visini, Managing Director, Lilly India said his company hopes to benefit from Cipla’s “strong on-ground footprint” in India.
Visini said basal insulin is yet to become as popular as regular insulin in India.
“While insulin has been a mainstay of diabetes treatment for many years, when it comes to initiating basal insulin therapy, people with diabetes still face several emotional and practical challenges,” he said.
Cipla expects to start selling Basaglar in Inddia by end of the year 2018.
Biocon is another Indian company that manufacturers and sells insulin glargine in India and other countries.