Calcutta, April 25: MSD India and Sun Pharmaceuticals Industries have entered into a partnership whereby the latter will market, promote and distribute MSD’s diabetic drugs Sitagliptin and Sitagliptin plus Metformin under different brand names.

The India-specific deal is aimed at increasing the market access of the two drugs. This comes two weeks after the firms had agreed to form a 50:50 joint venture to develop, produce and market generic drugs in emerging markets which is expected to address type 2 diabetes. “This is a strategic partnership. Through the deal, both partners will complement each other well. While MSD India brings with it the scientific excellence and market success of the compound, Sun Pharma brings its proven marketing expertise,” said K. G. Ananthakrishnan, managing director of MSD India. “This is yet another testimonial of our commitment to providing broader access of our first in class and best in class drugs in the country.”

MSD is the trade name of Merck & Co Inc, with its headquarters in Whitehouse Station, New Jersey, US. Sun Pharma has a well-established base among physicians in the country.

“Through this partnership, the reach of Sitagliptin and Sitagliptin plus Metformin will be enhanced and Sun Pharma’s strong relationship with diabetologists, endocrinologists and consulting physicians will further the cause and benefit patients,” Sun Pharma CEO Kalyansundaram said.