Janssen and Mundipharma sign distribution deal for type 2 diabetes treatments

Janssen Pharmaceutica has entered an exclusive distribution agreement with Mundipharma Medical Company for Invokana (canagliflozin) and Vokanamet (a fixed-dose combination therapy of canagliflozin and metformin) to treat patients with type 2 diabetes.

Invokana is a member of a new class of drugs known as sodium glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors and indicated for the treatment of adult patients with type 2 diabetes.

Vokanamet is approved in the European Union (EU) to improve glycaemic control in adult patients with type 2 diabetes.

Janssen Strategy and Organisation Europe, the Middle East and Africa vice-president Cyril Titeux said: "We at Janssen are committed to providing the best possible outcomes for people with type 2 diabetes and to ensuring Invokana and Vokanamet get to the people who may benefit from it the most.

"We believe that by drawing on the strengths and complementarities of both companies, we will be able to do this even more effectively in the best interest of patients living with type 2 diabetes."

The deal gives Mundipharma exclusive distribution rights in all countries in the European Economic Area (EEA) and Switzerland where the two primary care medicines have obtained pricing and reimbursement approvals.

In addition, the company will gain exclusive rights to promote, market and sell the products in 14 out of the 17 European markets where Janssen has already secured reimbursement.

The additional three are expected to be included over the coming months.

Other EEA countries may be added to the agreement if Janssen receives local pricing and reimbursement approvals.

Under the deal, Janssen-Cilag International continues to remain the marketing authorisation holder (MAH) in the concerned countries, while another Janssen affiliate remains MAH for Switzerland.

Janssen will carry out manufacturing activities for the two products and will continue to be responsible for certain regulatory activities, including marketing authorisation updates and pharmacovigilance in partnership with Mundipharma and its associated companies.