The Hindu Business Line : Natco launches generic version of multiple sclerosis drug

With this launch, Natco has become the first generic producer of this drug in the world, apart from being the first to introduce it in India, according to a company press release here on Wednesday. The branded version — called Copaxone from the global pharma major Teva Pharmaceuticals — has global sales of $1.8 billion. Incidentally, Glatimer will be a peptide chemistry-based product — the first one from among a series planned to be introduced by Natco in the coming years.

Stronger presence

Natco stated that it has fortified its presence in neurology segment with the launch of Glatimer (Glatiramer Acetate). The drug helps in reducing the frequency of relapse of the symptoms of multiple sclerosis.

Natco has launched Glatimer at a MRP of Rs 28,500 for 30 vials. This is about 40 per cent of the price at which the innovator's brand is available. Natco expects that Glatimer would boost its revenues as well as profitability.

Multiple sclerosis is a disorder of the central nervous system and an estimated 2.5 million people in the world are affected by this disease. About 50,000 of them are in India, according to the company release.

Multiple sclerosis is generally a result of damage caused to myelin - a protective sheath surrounding the nerve fibres of the central nervous system - thereby interfering with the communication system between the brain and other organs.

Natco Pharma has lined up another two new products for launch in the coming months.

These would be in the area of cancer treatment. The company is also in the process of conducting toxicology studies on two new chemical entities, which have show promise in the treatment of leukaemia.

More Stories on : New Products & Services | Pharmaceuticals

Article E-Mail :: Comment :: Syndication :: Printer Friendly Page

Stories in this Section
Hyundai phases out Accent CRDi, Viva models

Tata Tele to spend Rs 600 cr in expanding coverage

Haier India chalking out plans for production facility

Ripley's in tie-up for India foray

Reliance Retail's Bengal foray may be delayed

Munch Design scouting for more biz

Natco launches generic version of multiple sclerosis drug

`Good Princess' launched at Hindusthan Shipyard

Tata Indicom new plan