Germany-based pharmaceutical giant Merck KGaA (ETR: MRK) has entered into a partnership with Swiss giant Roche (SWX: ROG, OTCMKTS: RHHBY) to commercialize its lung cancer targeted drug Tepmetko (tepotinib) in mainland China. This collaboration aims to leverage the strengths of both companies to bring Tepmetko to more patients in need.
Drug Background
Tepmetko is the world’s first approved MET inhibitor, designed to treat patients with locally advanced or metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) carrying the mesenchymal epithelial transition factor (MET) exon 14 jump mutation. The drug received approval in China in December 2023.
Commercialization and NRDL Listing
The partnership between Merck and Roche will focus on integrating their respective resources to facilitate the commercialization of Tepmetko in China. The companies are targeting a National Reimbursement Drug List (NRDL) listing for the drug in 2024, which will enhance patient access and affordability.-Fineline Info & Tech
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