Lilly Launches Multi-Dose 'Monthly' Tirzepatide Pen in China to Boost Supply and Sustainability

On June 12, Eli Lilly announced the launch of the multi-dose pre-filled pen for its GLP-1 drug tirzepatide injection in China. Previously, the tirzepatide injection pen was available only in a fixed dose, with one pen used once and then discarded.

The newly launched multi-dose pre-filled pen contains 4 fixed doses, with 4 specifications (by weight) as follows: 10mg (2.5mg X 4 doses), 20mg (5mg X 4 doses), 30mg (7.5mg X 4 doses), and 40mg (10mg X 4 doses). One dose is used per week, and a single pen typically lasts for one month (4 administrations). The pre-filled pen can be stored for 30 days at room temperature not exceeding 30°C.

Professor Qu Shen from Shanghai Yaoying Healthcare stated: "The new pre-filled pen for tirzepatide is not discarded after a single use, but rather after the entire dose is administered. This is more cost-effective and environmentally friendly."

Professor Xiao Xinhua from Peking Union Medical College Hospital stated: "Under the advocacy of the 'Weight Management Year' initiative in China, hospitals at all levels are gradually establishing comprehensive weight management centers. Based on dietary control and exercise, scientific treatment is a key component of weight management. Since the launch of tirzepatide, patients have gained access to a new generation of scientific management solutions for diabetes and obesity. The novel injection device offers convenient administration and fixed dosing intervals, which helps improve medication adherence, allowing patients to benefit continuously."

Ms. De Hérand, Vice President of Eli Lilly and Company and General Manager of China, stated: "We look forward to the tirzepatide injection with this new device helping more patients with type 2 diabetes and obesity, expanding the range of beneficiaries. Safe and effective management of diabetes and obesity is crucial for individual health and plays an invaluable role in improving overall public health standards. We believe that the launch of this new device will better address the unmet needs of patients in China, fully supporting the national 'Weight Management Year' initiative and contributing solid efforts towards building 'Healthy China 2030'."

Ms. De He Lan, Vice President of Eli Lilly and Company and General Manager of China Operations

According to Eli Lilly, in addition to the strong demand for the drug, the limited production capacity of pre-filled pens is also a potential factor restricting the supply of GLP-1 drugs. The launch of a new multi-dose pre-filled pen is expected to increase supply to China. However, the latest multi-dose pre-filled pen that has just come to market is still imported, and there are currently no announced plans for local production in China.