Merck Partners with Hansoh Pharma on Oral GLP-1 Receptor Agonist for Type 2 Diabetes

Merck & Co., Inc. (NYSE: MRK) has entered into an exclusive global license agreement with Hansoh Pharmaceutical Group Company Limited (HKEX: 3692) for the development and commercialization of HS-10270, an investigational oral GLP-1 receptor agonist aimed at treating type 2 diabetes and obesity. This strategic partnership marks a significant milestone in both companies' efforts to expand access to effective and convenient treatments for metabolic diseases.

Under the terms of the agreement, Merck will gain exclusive rights to develop and market HS-10270 outside of China, while Hansoh Pharma will retain exclusive rights for its development and commercialization within China. The collaboration aims to advance the clinical development of this oral therapy, with the goal of offering a more accessible and patient-friendly alternative to the currently available injectable GLP-1 receptor agonists.

A New Oral Option for Diabetes and Obesity

HS-10270 is a novel oral formulation of a GLP-1 receptor agonist designed to help manage blood sugar levels and promote weight loss—two key therapeutic goals for patients with type 2 diabetes and obesity. This class of medications works by mimicking the natural GLP-1 hormone to regulate insulin secretion, reduce glucagon production, and suppress appetite.

GLP-1 receptor agonists, such as semaglutide, have already proven highly effective in controlling blood glucose levels and aiding weight loss. However, the availability of these drugs in an oral form could expand patient access, as oral medications are generally preferred over injectable therapies for their ease of use and convenience.

Early clinical trials of HS-10270 have shown positive results, including improvements in both glycemic control and body weight management. The oral formulation could provide a significant advantage over injectable alternatives, especially for patients who may have difficulty with injections or prefer non-injection-based treatments.

Merck's Metabolic Disease Portfolio

Merck’s collaboration with Hansoh Pharma will enhance its portfolio in the growing areas of diabetes and obesity management. "We are excited to collaborate with Hansoh Pharma on HS-10270, an investigational oral GLP-1 receptor agonist that has the potential to offer patients a convenient and effective treatment option for managing type 2 diabetes and obesity," said Dr. Roger M. Perlmutter, President of Merck Research Laboratories. "This agreement further underscores our commitment to advancing breakthrough therapies for patients suffering from chronic conditions with significant unmet medical needs."

In addition to its strong presence in oncology and vaccines, Merck has been expanding its diabetes and obesity pipeline, recognizing the increasing global burden of these diseases. The partnership with Hansoh Pharma represents a significant step toward providing more comprehensive solutions for metabolic disorders, which affect millions of people worldwide.

Terms of the Agreement

The agreement includes an upfront payment to Hansoh Pharma, as well as potential milestone payments tied to the successful development, regulatory approvals, and commercialization of HS-10270. Hansoh Pharma will also receive royalties on the product's sales outside China. As part of the deal, Hansoh will continue to manage ongoing clinical trials in China and lead efforts toward regulatory approvals in that region.

Merck’s global rights to HS-10270 outside of China reflect the company’s strategy to expand its leadership in metabolic disease treatments, with an emphasis on oral therapies, which are becoming increasingly preferred by patients.

About Merck

Merck is a global healthcare leader focused on creating innovative medicines, vaccines, biologic therapies, and animal health products. With a robust pipeline targeting critical areas such as oncology, cardiovascular diseases, and metabolic disorders, Merck is dedicated to improving patient outcomes and advancing healthcare worldwide. The company is committed to addressing unmet medical needs through science and innovation.

About Hansoh Pharmaceutical

Hansoh Pharmaceutical Group is one of China’s leading biopharmaceutical companies, focused on the discovery, development, and commercialization of novel therapies in oncology, central nervous system diseases, and metabolic diseases. The company has built a broad and diverse portfolio of innovative medicines and is expanding its presence in both domestic and international markets. Hansoh is particularly active in the development of treatments for type 2 diabetes and obesity, with a growing pipeline in these areas.