Lilly will fund a second manufacturing line to expand Alkermes’ powder production capacity.
Alkermes will be the exclusive commercial manufacturer of Eli Lilly and Company’s AIR Insulin powder for the AIR® Inhaled Insulin System, under a commercial manufacturing agreement. The AIR Insulin System is currently in Phase III development and is being studied as a treatment for type 1 and type 2 diabetes.
According to the agreement, Lilly will invest in the construction and operation of a second manufacturing line at Alkermes’ commercial-scale production facility for inhaled medications. This will expand the facility’s powder production capacity to meet post-launch requirements.
Alkermes is responsible for overseeing construction of the second manufacturing line and the supply of inhaled insulin powder. Lilly is responsible for funding activities related to the construction, development, and operation of the second manufacturing line as well as the facility expansion required to support the manufacturing line. Lilly is also responsible for all product packaging. If inhaled formulations of insulin are successfully developed and commercialized, Lilly will purchase product from the facility.