The Biopharma Division of Merck Korea has signed a contract with Yungjin Pharm to co-promote Merck’s Glucophage/Glucophage XR, an oral medication for type 2 diabetes(T2D), and Concor, a beta1-selective adrenoceptor blocking agent, in Korea on Feb 13.
Glucophage/Glucophage XR (metformin hydrochloride) is widely used for the treatment of hyperglycemia in T2D patients in the world. American college of physicians (ACP) treatment guideline recommended Metformin as the first-line pharmacologic therapy in Type 2 diabetes patients, because Metformin is effective in glycemic control, is associated with weight loss and fewer hypoglycemic episode and is cheaper than most other pharmacologic agents, in its updated treatment guidance on oral pharmacologic treatment of Type 2 Diabetes published on Jan 3 2017.
Concor 5mg(bisoprolol fumarate) used for the treatment of hypertension, angina pectoris and stable chronic heart failure and Concor 2.5mg(bisoprolol fumarate) used for the treatment of chronic heart failure are highly selective beta-1 selective, with less of beta-2 receptors mediated undesirable effects. It also provides good drug absorption and bioavailability and a balanced renal and hepatic clearance, allowing even patients with limited renal and hepatic functions to access the drug.
Under the contract, Yungjin Pharm will be responsible for marketing towards local clinics. “The market share of the two products is expected to keep rising with Merck’s long experience and proven product reliability combined with YungjinPharm’s aggressive marketing campaign for clinics,” the two companies said.
Concor, one of Merck’s key prescription drugs, signaled Merck’s official entrance into the Korean pharmaceutical market, while Glucophage with the launch of its extended release version in 2013 helps Merck make steady sales in Korea.
