ChongKunDang, the recipient of domestic rights to the DPP-4 inhibitor diabetes treatment medication portfolio from MSD (Merck) in the United States, a selection including Januvia, Janumet, and Janumet XR, is capturing industry attention with its foray into the generic drug market. While ChongKunDang is poised to concentrate its business efforts on the original Januvia line, it is also setting its sights on the burgeoning generic pharmaceutical sector.

In the latest development reported on August 22nd, insiders from the pharmaceutical sector have disclosed that ChongKunDang's Sitagliptin monotherapy, marketed as 'Sitagrip' tablets, as well as the combined formulations such as 'Sitaformin' tablets and 'Sitaformin XR' tablets, will become eligible for reimbursement starting September.

The stipulated maximum prices for ChongKunDang's Sitagrip tablets are as follows: $0.19 (254 won) for 25 mg, $0.29 (382 won) for 50 mg, and $0.43 (575 won) for 100 mg. Notably, these groundbreaking pharmaceutical offerings command an additional 68% premium in comparison to the 53.55% markup of the original medication's price.

The range extends to combination products as well. The ceiling prices for Sitaformin in the 50/1000mg dosage stand at $0.31 (410 won), while the 50/850mg variant is listed at $0.30 (403 won), and the 50/500mg version is priced at $0.29 (385 won). Turning to the extended-release Sitaformin XR tablets, the maximum prices encompass $0.43 (572 won) for 100/1000mg and $0.31 (420 won) for 50/1000mg, with the 50/500mg configuration set at $0.28 (381 won).

ChongKunDang's proactive approach is evident in its preparation of generic offerings prior to the negotiation of original product rights with MSD. With regulatory approvals secured and reimbursement procedures navigated, the company has successfully concluded stable supply negotiations, paving the way for an imminent market launch.

However, given the license introduction period for the original Januvia line extending until August 31st, 2038—spanning 15 years—there exists an anticipation that ChongKunDang will continue to prioritize the original market. The company is anticipated to adopt a two-pronged strategy, simultaneously safeguarding its standing in the original market while competing robustly in the realm of generic prescriptions.