Cipla and Qilu Partner on US Launch of Merck's Keytruda Biosimilar

India's Cipla and China's Qilu Pharmaceutical have joined forces to bring a biosimilar version of Merck's cancer drug Keytruda to the US market. Under their partnership, Qilu will handle development, regulatory approvals, manufacturing, and supply of QL2107, while Cipla USA will be responsible for commercialization and sales.

The agreement aims to offer patients a more affordable treatment option that matches the original Keytruda's safety and efficacy profile. Merck's Keytruda is used against 20 different types of cancerous tumors and 45 types and stages of cancer.

Cipla said the partnership supports its strategy to expand its oncology-focused biosimilars portfolio, leveraging Qilu's research and manufacturing capabilities and Cipla's US commercial network. Keytruda's patent protection is set to expire in 2028, which could lead to increased competition for Merck.