SK Chemical, Exclusive Distributor of Male Hypogonadism Treatment 'Nebido'

SK Chemicals announced on the 2nd that it will exclusively import and sell 'Nebido,' a male hypogonadism treatment from Germany's Gr?nenthal.

Male hypogonadism treatment 'Nebido' from Gr?nenthal, Germany
[Photo by SK Chemicals]

Nebido is used for testosterone replacement therapy in primary and secondary hypogonadism occurring in men. Hypogonadism is a condition where the male hormone testosterone is not produced sufficiently. It is also known as Testosterone Deficiency Syndrome (TDS). When testosterone levels drop, clinical features such as regression of secondary sexual characteristics, changes in body composition, fatigue, decreased libido, and erectile dysfunction may appear.

Nebido is a long-acting injection administered intramuscularly once every 10 to 14 weeks, maintaining consistent testosterone levels without accumulation in the body. Accordingly, it can improve symptoms such as erectile dysfunction, decreased libido, reduction in body fat, and decreased bone density. In a clinical study involving 1,438 patients with hypogonadism, the proportion of patients who reported their libido as 'low' or 'very low' decreased from 64% before treatment to 10% after Nebido administration, confirming its symptom improvement efficacy.

According to IQVIA, a pharmaceutical market research firm, Nebido recorded sales of 6.9 billion KRW in the domestic hypogonadism treatment market, which totaled 10.1 billion KRW in 2023, showing an average annual growth rate of 5.5% over the past five years. The company analyzed that Nebido’s longer half-life compared to other testosterone injections reduced the inconvenience for patients needing hospital visits, leading to higher patient satisfaction. In clinical trials, 89% of male patients receiving the treatment responded with 'satisfied' or 'very satisfied.'

Kim Yun-ho, Head of Pharma Business at SK Chemicals, said, “This agreement recognizes SK Chemicals’ expertise in the urology treatment market by a global pharmaceutical company,” adding, “We will focus our marketing capabilities on expanding sales in the urology market based on a diverse product portfolio, including Nebido, the leading product in the male hypogonadism treatment market.”