In an expansion on their previously announced alliance, Biocon Biologics will begin manufacturing a private-label version of insulin glargine for Civica, which Civica will then commercialize in the US. Biocon will continue to market its own brand of insulin glargine biosimilar (Semglee/insulin glargine-yfgn).
Civica is a nonprofit pharmaceutical company, that was founded to expand access and affordability of low-cost medicines in the United States. It has primarily served as a supplier of generic drugs, with a focus on drugs subject to shortage, to hospitals and health systems. In March, we reported that the two organizations were collaborating on producing an insulin aspart biosimilar (wherein Biocon would supply the raw materials, and Civica would manufacture a biosimilar product, as well as commercialize it).
According to this latest press release, Civica will market the private-label insulin glargine biosimilar under its own branding in all states but California, where it will “carry the CalRx brand.”
“By extending our collaboration with Civica, Inc. to include insulin glargine, we are building on our differentiated approach to serving and enhancing patient access—by retaining our direct commercialization and through this strategic partnership,” said Shreehas Tambe, CEO and Managing Director, Biocon Biologics. “This collaboration enables us to reach underserved populations through new channels in direct alignment with our mission.”
The news report did not specify when Civica will begin marketing the insulin glargine biosimilar from Biocon.
In Other Biosimilar News
Celltrion’s Yuflyma adalimumab biosimilar was approved on October 17 for two additional pediatric indications of the reference product Humira: hidradenitis suppurative in adolescents and uveitis in pediatric patients.
