Eli Lilly Japan K.K. and Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma Corporation (MTPC) have signed a sales collaboration agreement in Japan for Tirzepatide, which is under development by Eli Lilly Japan.

Tirzepatide (injection) is a novel once-weekly GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide) and GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) receptor agonist that integrates the actions of the GIP and GLP-1 in-cretins into a single molecule, representing a new class of medicines being developed for the treatment of type 2 diabetes by Eli Lilly Japan.

In the US, Tirzepatide was already FDA-approved on May 13 as an adjunct to diet and exercise to improve glycemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Based on the agreement, after Eli Lilly Japan retains a manufacturing/marketing license for Tirzepatide, MTPC will take responsibility for sales/distribution of the medicine. Eli Lilly Japan and MTPC will conduct activities to provide healthcare professionals with information regarding Tirzepatide.

Eli Lilly Japan and MTPC will closely work together through the sales collaboration for Tirzepatide, which is expected to be a new option for the treatment of type 2 diabetes, and make further contributions to the treatment of diabetes.