Synthes and Eli Lilly Combine Efforts

Synthes Inc. has begun a global collaboration deal to develop and sell orthopedic and osteoporosis treatments with Eli Lilly and Co.

Synthes will collaboratively develop and license early-stage Lilly compounds for use in new osteoinductive products in areas such as spine and craniomaxillofacial treatment.

“Together we will be able to look for new ways to treat osteoporosis and bone fractures,” said Bruce Carmine, head of Lilly’s Bio-Medicines business.

The companies also will co-promote Lilly’s osteoporosis drug Forteo in the United States. Approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in 2002, Forteo was hailed as a breakthrough when it debuted on the market due to its ability to stimulate new bone growth. Most osteoporosis treatments at that time merely halted bone loss and increased density.

“Strategic collaborations between [medical technology] and [pharmaceutical] companies represent a new and promising avenue to develop and market true innovations in a changing, dynamic market environment,” said Michel Orsinger, president and chief executive officer of Switzerland-based Synthes.

Eli Lilly is based in Indianapolis, Ind.