Daewoong Pharmaceutical announced on April 2 that its osteoporosis treatment, Stoboclo (active ingredient: denosumab), co-marketed with Celltrion Pharm, has surpassed cumulative sales of 11.8 billion KRW (approximately 7.83 million USD) in its first year on the market.
Stoboclo is South Korea’s first biosimilar to the global blockbuster osteoporosis treatment Prolia (active ingredient: denosumab). It was launched in March last year and recently celebrated its one-year anniversary on March 19.
According to market research firm IQVIA, Stoboclo is projected to achieve cumulative sales of around 11.8 billion KRW (approximately 7.83 million USD) by the fourth quarter of 2025, entering the blockbuster category with annual sales exceeding 10 billion KRW (about 6.6 million USD). The domestic osteoporosis treatment market is estimated to reach about 360 billion KRW (about 239 million USD) by 2025.
The denosumab segment accounts for approximately 160 billion KRW (about 106 million USD), representing 45% of the total market. Stoboclo has rapidly grown to capture about 14% market share in the denosumab segment by the fourth quarter of 2025, securing around 7% market share on an annual basis, establishing a stable presence in the market.
This achievement comes just ten months after its launch, marking the fastest growth among denosumab biosimilars in South Korea. It has gained significant trust among healthcare professionals and patients, solidifying its position as a first mover in the market.
Daewoong Pharmaceutical aims to gradually expand prescriptions for Stoboclo across major general and university hospitals nationwide, with a strategy to develop it into a mega blockbuster with annual sales exceeding 100 billion KRW (about 66 million USD).
Leading the Generational Shift in Osteoporosis Treatment
Currently, Stoboclo is available in over 50 major general and university hospitals across the country, quickly broadening its prescription base. The company plans to accelerate the generational shift in the domestic osteoporosis treatment market through strong collaboration with Celltrion Pharm.
Stoboclo’s rapid growth is attributed to its significantly reduced economic burden on patients, clinically proven efficacy recognized by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the European Medicines Agency (EMA), and Daewoong Pharmaceutical’s robust sales and marketing capabilities.
Compared to the original medication that cost over 200,000 KRW (about 133 USD) when first covered by insurance, Stoboclo was launched at a more affordable price of about 100,000 KRW (about 66 USD).
With insurance coverage, patients pay an average of about 180 KRW (about 0.12 USD) per day, totaling around 5,400 KRW (about 3.6 USD) per month. This means patients can prevent fracture risks and continue their treatment at a cost comparable to a single cup of coffee each month.
Denosumab, the primary ingredient in Stoboclo, offers the advantage of maintaining its effectiveness with just one injection for six months. This results in higher patient adherence compared to other osteoporosis treatments that require daily medication or more frequent injections.
As a result, patients can reduce their treatment burden and the frequency of hospital visits, while also alleviating the workload for healthcare providers.
Unparalleled Growth as South Korea’s First Denosumab Biosimilar
Stoboclo not only offers a more reasonable price than existing original medications but also enhances user convenience and safety. The injection device is designed to automatically conceal the needle after use, minimizing the risk of needlestick injuries. Additionally, it uses latex-free material for the cap surrounding the needle, ensuring that patients sensitive to latex can use it safely.
The stability of storage and distribution has also significantly improved. Stoboclo has been designed to remain stable at room temperature (up to 86°F, about 30℃) for up to 63 days, which is about four times longer than existing products. This extended shelf life reduces the potential for drug degradation due to mishandling during distribution or storage.
Park Hyeong-cheol, head of Daewoong Pharmaceutical’s Ethical Drug (ETC) Marketing Division, stated that achieving 11.8 billion KRW (aboput 7.83 million USD) in sales in the first year is a testament to the product’s excellent quality and our differentiated marketing strategy. It will continue to do our best to ensure that more osteoporosis patients can benefit from the affordable pricing and high-quality products.
