In a major development of reversing an alliance, Biocon and Pfizer have ended the strategic global agreement for the worldwide commercialization of the former’s insulin biosimilar versions and analogues. The 15-month-old alliance viewed as an ideal opportunity for Biocon to garner quick access to regulated markets and for Pfizer to have exclusive rights to commercialize these products globally, with certain exceptions, has now fallen through.

The two companies have agreed that due to the individual priorities for their respective biosimilars businesses, it was in their best interest to move forward independently. Both companies are committed to ensure continuity of patient care and will work together to effect a seamless transition. As of March 12, 2012, all rights licensed to Pfizer will revert to Biocon, and all insulin distributed under the brand name Univia and Glarvia will be commercially available from Biocon Ltd. only, and will be exclusively manufactured, supplied, marketed and supported by Biocon, stated a release issued by Biocon early today.

“Biocon remains committed to delivering its Biosimilar Insulins portfolio to global markets in its endeavor to make a difference to diabetic patients globally. We will continue to work with our existing partners in several markets and will pursue a commercial strategy on its own and through new alliances in other markets,” said Kiran Mazumdar Shaw, chairman and managing director, Biocon Limited.

“We teamed up with Pfizer for commercial opportunities and that it would bring brand strength and a vast and unrivalled global marketing network to enable us to realize our objective of seeing our Insulin portfolio have a worldwide presence. However, the pact inked in mid October 2010, had Biocon to have the responsibility for the clinical development, manufacture and supply of these biosimilar Insulin products, as well as for regulatory activities to secure approval for these products in various geographies,” she told Pharmabiz in a telecon.

“Prior to the alliance with Pfizer, Biocon had several regional partnerships. As you know, we currently, market insulin in 27 markets globally, now post the alliance we will scout for multi regional alliances besides strengthen our existing collaborations and adopt a prudent collaboration strategy for the future.

“Nothing changes in Biocon ensuing out of the Pfizer alliance termination. Even the milestones payments from Pfizer amounting to $200 million were not coming in the immediate future. Although we looked at the Pfizer partnership for a smooth regulatory transition in 2015, we are confident, to forge more pacts to take our business forward”, informed Shaw.

“Pfizer continues to be dedicated to developing a broad portfolio of biosimilars medicines, including monoclonal antibodies and recombinant proteins products, both internally and through collaborations. We will continue to pursue our own research and business development efforts for diabetes, which represents a huge unmet medical need, and will committed to seeking new solutions to help physicians and patients,” said Diem Nguyen, general manager, Biosimilars, Pfizer.