MSD launches Sitagliptin for Type II Diabetes

New Delhi, Apr 28 (UNI) Targeting the Rs 1,000 crore anti-diabetes market, US-based pharma major Merck and Co subsidiary MSD today launched its oral add-on drug Sitagliptin to treat Type II Diabetes.

''The drug, used to treat Type II Diabetes, will be available on prescription. The monthly cost works out to be Rs 1,284,'' MSD Pharmaceuticals Pvt Ltd Managing Director Naveen Rao told reporters here.

Sitagliptin has received the marketing approval from Drug Controller's officer and was tested on 190 patients at 17 centres.

The drug, which was launched globally in 2006, is now available in 70 countries, including 60 cities across India.

According to estimates, there will be 80 million diabetes patients in India by 2030.

UNI SR SG HT1645