Abbott to distribute MSD’s diabetes drug in India 

Abbott and MSD Pharmaceuticals have entered into a distribution agreement for MSD’s oral anti-diabetic medicine sitagliptin, its combination sitagliptin/metformin and the extended-release version in India.

Leveraging its broad footprint in the country Abbott will distribute the portfolio. The products are marketed under brand names Januvia, Janumet and Janumet XR, the companies said in a joint statement.

Sitagliptin is a Dipeptidyl Peptidase IV Inhibitors used for treatment of Type 2 diabetes. It was discovered and developed by MSD Pharmaceuticals and the first DPP4i to be launched in India in 2008. The brands under this portfolio continue to be among the leaders in the category, even after loss of exclusivity, they said.

“Through our extensive presence, we can help people in India better manage their Type 2 diabetes and take control of their health,” V-P of Abbott in India Ambati Venu said.

MSD India Region Managing Director Rehan A. Khan said, “Our partnership with Abbott establishes a sustainable business model that will enable us to continue to serve patients throughout India with these diabetes treatments.”