Biocon Biologics and Civica, Inc. issued a major announcement on Thursday to make it easier for people in the United States to get affordable diabetes treatment, Insulin Aspart.

The official announcement states that Biocon Biologics will supply the drug substance of Insulin Aspart to Civica. Civica will utilize the drug substance of Insulin Aspart to manufacture the drug product of Insulin Aspart in its Petersburg, Virginia, facility. The companies assured that the deal doesn't involve technology transfer.

Civica will market the drug in the United States after completing extensive development work and clinical trials. The alliance is aimed at making the drug more accessible and affordable for diabetes patients in the nation.

"As a global biologics player, Biocon Biologics is positioned to succeed through smart marketing practices that work for everyone. Our collaboration with Civica is a testament to this intention, enabling us to make Insulin Aspart accessible to more patients in the United States and demonstrating our commitment to treating individuals with diabetes. Together, we are making high-quality, affordable insulin accessible to more patients," said Shreehas Tambe, CEO & Managing Director, Biocon Biologics Ltd.

This deal is to be added to Biocon Biologics' own Insulin Aspart drug product, which is under review by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The firm has been making a concerted effort to introduce high-quality biosimilars to the market, responding to the increasing need for low-cost insulin.

Most Americans must be able to afford insulin. There are approximately 38.4 million people with diabetes, which makes up around 11.6% of Americans. Additionally, approximately 97.6 million Americans are prediabetic. It is frightening to know that for every five individuals with diabetes, one person has reported rationing, delaying, or avoiding taking less insulin than prescribed since it is unaffordable.

"Civica's mission is to provide affordable generic and biosimilar drugs to those who need them. This holds true for patients with diabetes, one in five of whom have postponed, cut out, or reduced insulin doses to save on costs. Our partnership with Biocon Biologics for the supply of Aspart drug substance will allow us to fulfill our meaningful mission and assist patients who need access to Insulin Aspart. Civica will manufacture prefilled vials and pens of insulin through our Petersburg, Virginia, manufacturing facilities," said Ned McCoy, President and Chief Executive Officer, Civica, Inc.

This collaboration is in the right direction towards addressing the issue of insulin prices. It indicates that both firms are committed to ensuring health for the population through provision of required diabetes care.