Eli Lilly's Blockbuster Diabetes Drug Mounjaro Set To Enter New Markets Amid Manufacturing Boost

Eli Lilly & Company LLY has unveiled plans to introduce its weight-loss drug Mounjaro (tirzepatide) in new countries this year while simultaneously expanding manufacturing capacity, 

The plans were revealed by Ilya Yuffa, President of Lilly International, Reuters noted, citing an interview at the World Economic Forum’s (WEF) annual meeting in Davos.

Negotiating reimbursement terms is a pivotal aspect for Lilly’s global expansion, according to Yuffa. 

Also Read: Large Drugmakers Show Enthusiasm To Embrace $100B Obesity Market, Despite Novo And Lilly’s Dominance.

Despite Mounjaro’s approval in the U.S., the U.K., and Europe last year, the drug has only been available as Zepbound for weight loss in the U.S., awaiting approval for the pen injector in Europe, with an optimistic outlook for approval by the middle of the year.

The decentralization of approval authority to individual European countries has affected the drug’s availability. 

Lilly’s CEO, David Ricks, recently disclosed ongoing discussions with the U.K. health officials regarding the terms of use for Mounjaro, hinting at a potential launch in Britain pending those negotiations.

As a response to surging demand, Eli Lilly has strategically expanded its manufacturing capacity. 

In November, the company announced a €2.3 billion ($2.5 billion) investment to build its first plant in Germany, Reuters reported, located in the western town of Alzey.

Yuffa hinted at the possibility of evaluating a direct-to-patient model tailored to individual European markets based on respective countries’ regulations. 

Additionally, Lilly has recently launched a website named Lilly Direct, enabling U.S. residents to order Zepbound directly from the company.

Read Next: Pfizer’s Aggressive Stance In Obesity Drugs: CEO Albert Bourla Confirms Bold Bet Despite Prior Drug Hurdles.

Price Action: LLY shares are down 0.63% at $630.55 on the last check Wednesday.

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