Aspen Targets Mounjaro Approval in Africa This Year

Aspen Pharmacare Seeks Regional Approval for Mounjaro

Aspen Pharmacare is targeting approval for Eli Lilly’s popular weight-loss drug, Mounjaro, across sub-Saharan Africa as early as this calendar year. CEO Stephen Saad confirmed the company's plan to leverage the initial registration in South Africa to expand into the wider region, capitalizing on immense demand for GLP-1 treatments.

Market Overview

The market for GLP-1 drugs in South Africa has rapidly grown to approximately 2.2 billion rand, tripling in value over the last 18 months. Mounjaro's market share has surged from 21 percent to 52 percent following its local launch. This growth highlights a significant opportunity in one of the last major untapped markets for obesity treatments.

Economic and Market Impact

Aspen's move positions it as a key manufacturing and distribution partner for global pharmaceutical giants in Africa. The company projects Mounjaro sales to exceed 1.3 billion rand by June, potentially making it the fastest brand to reach the billion-rand milestone in the country's private market. This expansion intensifies competition with Novo Nordisk, maker of Wegovy and Ozempic.

Summary

Aspen is accelerating its efforts to make Mounjaro widely available in sub-Saharan Africa. The strategy hinges on rapid regulatory approvals to meet soaring consumer demand and establish a dominant market position for Eli Lilly's blockbuster drug in the region.

FAQ

Q: Which company is pushing for Mounjaro's approval in Africa?
A: South Africa-based Aspen Pharmacare is leading the registration and distribution efforts for Eli Lilly's Mounjaro.

Q: How large is the GLP-1 market in South Africa?
A: The market is currently valued at about 2.2 billion rand and continues to grow rapidly.

Source: Investing.com