Sanofi Launches Soliqua in India to Advance Type 2 Diabetes Treatment

Priced at INR 1850 per pen, this once-daily injectable combination drug aims to improve glycemic control for individuals grappling with type 2 diabetes mellitus. 

Sanofi India has introduced its latest offering, Soliqua, in the Indian market. Approved by the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) last year, Soliqua presents a significant advancement in diabetes management. 

Priced at INR 1850 per pen, this once-daily injectable combination drug aims to improve glycemic control for individuals grappling with Type 2 diabetes mellitus. This nominal pricing strategy is expected to widen access to the medication, ensuring that a larger population can afford the necessary treatment.

Sharing insights, Cyrus Aibara, head, Diabetes Business Unit, Sanofi, India, said, "More than 100 million individuals in the country are affected by type 2 diabetes and its associated complexities. Among them, over 60% struggle with unregulated blood sugar levels, despite undergoing treatment with various oral anti-diabetic medications for an extended period.”

Aibara further added that the addition of Soliqua to their diverse diabetes product range, encompassing both oral and injectable treatments, simplifies therapy initiation. 

This, according to him, aids patients in better controlling their blood sugar levels, thereby enhancing their overall management of the condition.

Commenting on the launch, Dr Shalini Menon, country medical lead, Sanofi, India, said, "Despite the advancements in diabetes management, numerous individuals with type 2 diabetes struggle to achieve their target blood sugar levels. The apprehension of experiencing hypoglycemia, gaining weight, and undergoing multiple injections often hinders the effectiveness of insulin treatments.”

She added that through clinical trials, Soliqua, the combined injectable, has exhibited efficient control over blood sugar levels without inducing weight gain and a reduced likelihood of hypoglycemia compared to twice-daily premix insulins.

Furthermore, this reassurance is pivotal for patients who often face challenges such as weight gain and hypoglycemia while managing their condition.

Sanofi’s Latest Collaborations 

Recently, Sanofi entered into an exclusive partnership with Dr Reddy’s Laboratories Limited (DRL) to enhance its healthcare offerings further. This collaboration aims to promote and distribute Sanofi’s vaccine brands across India. 

The portfolio of vaccine brands includes Hexaxim and Pentaxim, which are indicated for primary and booster vaccination of infants and toddlers against diseases such as Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis, Hepatitis B, Poliomyelitis, and bacterial diseases caused by Haemophilus influenzae.

Additionally, Sanofi India announced an exclusive distribution and promotion agreement with Emcure Pharmaceuticals focused on cardiovascular products. This partnership signifies a strategic collaboration aimed at enhancing the accessibility of essential cardiovascular medications to patients across the country.

Under the agreement, Emcure Pharmaceuticals will immediately distribute Sanofi India’s brands, which include Cardace, Clexane, Targocid, Lasix, and Lasilactone. 

Previously, in 2023, Mumbai-based pharmaceutical giant Lupin announced plans to acquire two renowned brands from French pharmaceutical company Sanofi Pharmaceuticals. 

The acquisition, valued at INR 910 million, includes the brands AARANE in Germany and NALCROM in Canada and the Netherlands. This strategic maneuver reflects Lupin's commitment to expanding its portfolio and geographical footprint.