Erbitux (Cetuximab)

Erbitux, scientifically known as cetuximab, is a chimeric monoclonal antibody used primarily in the treatment of metastatic colorectal cancer and squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck. The product was originally developed by ImClone Systems, a biotechnology company based in the United States, utilizing recombinant DNA technology in mammalian cell lines.

Today, the brand's ownership and distribution are split geographically. In the United States and Canada, Eli Lilly and Company holds the rights following its acquisition of ImClone Systems. However, for the majority of the global market (including Europe and Asia), the brand is managed by the German pharmaceutical giant Merck KGaA. Manufacturing primarily takes place in Merck's high-tech facilities in Germany for international markets, while North American supply is managed through Eli Lilly's production network.