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Case histories
From a simple license to a blockbuster collaboration.
Glucophage® (metformin hydrochloride tablets)
After years of success with metformin in non-U.S. markets, Merck Santé began looking for a U.S. distribution partner who could start selling fast and effectively, as the product had only five years of Hatch-Waxman exclusivity. Bristol-Myers Squibb had the potential to make a market impact -- fast. Our range of products in diabetes-related disorders put Glucophage® (metformin hydrochloride tablets) in the hands of 1,500 informed and enthusiastic sales representatives on day one.
The launch far exceeded sales forecasts, and became the most successful launch ever in this category. To sustain and increase the power of the brand, we worked to develop and register new products -- Glucophage® XR (metformin HCl extended-release tablets), Glucovance® (glyburide and metformin HCl tablets), and Metaglip™ (glipizide and metformin tablets).
Potential partners should note that we have built this infrastructure almost entirely as the result of a partnership, which has been substantially rewarding -- both financially and in the quality of the relationship.
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