US-based Merck Sharp & Dohme (MSD, NYSE: MRK) has entered into a cooperation framework agreement with China National Pharmaceutical Group Co., Ltd (Sinopharm), granting Sinopharm agency and exclusive importing rights to its oral small molecule COVID-19 drug, molnupiravir, in China. The collaboration will also explore the feasibility of technology transfer to facilitate the manufacturing, supply, and commercialization of the drug within the country. Financial details of the agreement were not disclosed.
Global Approvals and Supply
Molnupiravir has received marketing approvals or Emergency Use Authorizations (EUAs) in the US, European Union, Australia, Japan, South Korea, Hong Kong, and Taiwan, among a total of 40 countries and regions. As of the end of August 2022, MSD had supplied 8.6 million courses of the drug to more than 30 markets worldwide, treating 1.8 million patients.
Expanding Access through Partnerships
In January 2022, MSD entered into an agreement with the Medicines Patent Pool (MPP) and 27 generic drug manufacturers, including Chinese companies Fosun Pharma, Langhua Pharma, Lonzeal Pharma, BrightGene, and Desano Bio, to supply molnupiravir in 105 low- and middle-income countries. This partnership aims to expand access to the drug in regions where it is most needed.
Future Outlook
The collaboration between Merck Sharp & Dohme and Sinopharm marks a significant step in ensuring broader access to molnupiravir in China. By leveraging Sinopharm’s extensive distribution network and manufacturing capabilities, the partnership is expected to enhance the availability and affordability of this critical COVID-19 treatment.-Fineline Info & Tech
