Lilly and Cipla Forge Distribution Agreement for Yurpeak, a Type 2 Diabetes and Weight Loss Drug

Cipla and Eli Lilly and Company India have entered into an agreement to distribute and promote the drug tirzepatide in India under the new brand name Yurpeak. This medication, used for type 2 diabetes and chronic weight management, was initially launched by Lilly in March 2025 as Mounjaro. The collaboration aims to enhance the availability of tirzepatide beyond urban areas where Lilly already operates.

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Under this agreement, Cipla will handle the distribution and promotion of Yurpeak across India. Lilly will continue to manufacture and supply the drug to Cipla, maintaining the same price as Mounjaro. This strategic move is intended to increase access to innovative treatments for chronic conditions throughout the country.

Expanding Access to Innovative Treatments

Lilly India President and General Manager Winselow Tucker stated, "The introduction of a second brand of tirzepatide in India through our commercial agreement with Cipla furthers Lilly's commitment to expanding access to innovative treatments for chronic conditions." With the rising prevalence of type 2 diabetes and obesity in India, making tirzepatide more widely available is crucial for patient care.

Achin Gupta, Cipla's Global Chief Operating Officer, expressed enthusiasm about entering the obesity care sector with Yurpeak tirzepatide. He noted that this step aligns with Cipla's dedication to addressing significant health challenges by providing innovative and accessible solutions that can improve health outcomes.

Addressing Health Challenges in India

The partnership between Cipla and Lilly reflects a shared commitment to tackling pressing health issues in India. By offering Yurpeak tirzepatide, they aim to provide patients with effective treatment options for managing type 2 diabetes and obesity. This collaboration underscores both companies' dedication to enhancing healthcare accessibility across the country.

Yurpeak tirzepatide will be available in a KwikPen format, which is a pre-filled pen designed for multiple doses by a single patient. This user-friendly presentation is expected to facilitate easier administration of the medication for patients requiring ongoing treatment.

The joint statement released by Cipla on BSE highlights that this agreement will help expand tirzepatide's reach beyond cities, ensuring broader access across India. As the country faces increasing challenges related to diabetes and obesity, such initiatives are vital in providing effective healthcare solutions.

With inputs from PTI