Takeda to Buy Shire for USD 62 billion
Takeda Pharmaceutical agreed to buy London-listed Shire for 45.3 billion pounds (USD 62 billion), the biggest yet in a wave of deals sweeping the drugs industry.
Assuming it wins the backing of shareholders, the deal will be the largest overseas purchase by a Japanese company and propel Takeda, led by Frenchman Christophe Weber, into the top 10 rankings of global drugmakers.
The tie-up crowns a hectic few months of M & A activity as big drugmakers, including Novartis and Sanofi, have brought in promising medicines developed by younger firms.
The enlarged group will be a Japanese national champion in pharmaceuticals and a leader in gastroenterology, neuroscience, oncology, rare diseases and blood-derived therapies, used for serious conditions such as hemophilia.
Shire has profitable businesses selling drugs for hyperactivity and rare disorders but the size of the deal will make Takeda one of the most indebted drugmakers, prompting Standard & Poor’s to warn of a potential credit downgrade.
To pay off debts quickly, Takeda plans to slash thousands of jobs and cut back on duplicated drug research.
The deal, struck on the last day Takeda had to make a firm bid, is around 46 percent cash and 54 percent stock, leaving Shire shareholders owning around half of the combination.
Shire had rejected four previous offers, due to price concerns and the fact that the Japanese company is proposing to pay for much of the acquisition in stock.
Shire investors will receive $30.33 in cash and either 0.839 new Takeda shares or 1.678 Takeda American depositary shares for each share, valuing the offer at 48.17 pounds a share based on the latest price and exchange rate.
That is a 60 percent premium to the price before Takeda first declared its interest six weeks ago.
Takeda Pharmaceutical agreed to buy London-listed Shire for 45.3 billion pounds (USD 62 billion), the biggest yet in a wave of deals sweeping the drugs industry.
Assuming it wins the backing of shareholders, the deal will be the largest overseas purchase by a Japanese company and propel Takeda, led by Frenchman Christophe Weber, into the top 10 rankings of global drugmakers.
The tie-up crowns a hectic few months of M & A activity as big drugmakers, including Novartis and Sanofi, have brought in promising medicines developed by younger firms.
The enlarged group will be a Japanese national champion in pharmaceuticals and a leader in gastroenterology, neuroscience, oncology, rare diseases and blood-derived therapies, used for serious conditions such as hemophilia.
Shire has profitable businesses selling drugs for hyperactivity and rare disorders but the size of the deal will make Takeda one of the most indebted drugmakers, prompting Standard & Poor’s to warn of a potential credit downgrade.
To pay off debts quickly, Takeda plans to slash thousands of jobs and cut back on duplicated drug research.
The deal, struck on the last day Takeda had to make a firm bid, is around 46 percent cash and 54 percent stock, leaving Shire shareholders owning around half of the combination.
Shire had rejected four previous offers, due to price concerns and the fact that the Japanese company is proposing to pay for much of the acquisition in stock.
Shire investors will receive $30.33 in cash and either 0.839 new Takeda shares or 1.678 Takeda American depositary shares for each share, valuing the offer at 48.17 pounds a share based on the latest price and exchange rate.
That is a 60 percent premium to the price before Takeda first declared its interest six weeks ago.
Boehringer Ingelheim Opens New Veterinary
R & D Centre in China
Boehringer Ingelheim, the world’s second largest animal health company, has been boosting its investment in China by expanding the Asian Veterinary Research & Development (R & D) Center to enhance its research and innovation capacity. The company’s new integrated R & D Center has been officially inaugurated. Located in Shanghai's Zhangjiang Hi-tech Park, the R & D Center is currently the country's largest integrated animal health R & D facility in terms of investment value, and is equipped with world-class R & D capabilities. Initially put into operation in March 2012, Boehringer Ingelheim’s Asian Veterinary R & D Center, the largest of its kind established by a multinational pharmaceutical company in China, has been dedicated to discovering and developing innovative solutions to address specific livestock diseases in China and Asia. Therefore, it has set the high starting point of the new integrated R & D center and its long-term leading strength. In January 2017, Boehringer Ingelheim and Merial officially merged, and have been going through integration since. With the inauguration of the new integrated R & D center, the teams from both companies have now joined their forces in the R & D center, which will leverage the broad R & D expertise to create powerful collaboration in veterinary R & D capabilities.
The new integrated R & D center has a total investment of 19 million euros, covering a total area of 3,300 square meters. More than 110 researchers work at the center, led by eight international experts and 19 scholar returnees from overseas. In the meantime, Boehringer Ingelheim's 8,000-square-meter Veterinary Trial Center (VTC) in Taizhou, with an investment of 16 million euros, has come into operation. As part of the new integrated Asian Veterinary R & D Center, VTC is the base to conduct animal trials during veterinary R & D. Up till today, the accumulated operation cost of the new integrated Asian Veterinary R & D center has reached 125 million euros.
Boehringer Ingelheim, the world’s second largest animal health company, has been boosting its investment in China by expanding the Asian Veterinary Research & Development (R & D) Center to enhance its research and innovation capacity. The company’s new integrated R & D Center has been officially inaugurated. Located in Shanghai's Zhangjiang Hi-tech Park, the R & D Center is currently the country's largest integrated animal health R & D facility in terms of investment value, and is equipped with world-class R & D capabilities. Initially put into operation in March 2012, Boehringer Ingelheim’s Asian Veterinary R & D Center, the largest of its kind established by a multinational pharmaceutical company in China, has been dedicated to discovering and developing innovative solutions to address specific livestock diseases in China and Asia. Therefore, it has set the high starting point of the new integrated R & D center and its long-term leading strength. In January 2017, Boehringer Ingelheim and Merial officially merged, and have been going through integration since. With the inauguration of the new integrated R & D center, the teams from both companies have now joined their forces in the R & D center, which will leverage the broad R & D expertise to create powerful collaboration in veterinary R & D capabilities.
The new integrated R & D center has a total investment of 19 million euros, covering a total area of 3,300 square meters. More than 110 researchers work at the center, led by eight international experts and 19 scholar returnees from overseas. In the meantime, Boehringer Ingelheim's 8,000-square-meter Veterinary Trial Center (VTC) in Taizhou, with an investment of 16 million euros, has come into operation. As part of the new integrated Asian Veterinary R & D Center, VTC is the base to conduct animal trials during veterinary R & D. Up till today, the accumulated operation cost of the new integrated Asian Veterinary R & D center has reached 125 million euros.
Chugai Pharma Receives Taiwan FDA Approval for
Alecensa
Chugai Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. announced that Chugai Pharma Taiwan Ltd., a wholly owned subsidiary of Chugai, obtained approval from the Taiwan Food and Drug Administration (TFDA), for "Alecensa," anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) inhibitor, for the treatment of "patients with ALK-positive, advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC)."
“The results of the J-ALEX study conducted by Chugai and the ALEX study conducted overseas showed that Alecensa will greatly contribute to the treatment of patients who receive at an early stage." said Dr. Yasushi Ito, Chugai's senior vice president, co-head of project & lifecycle management unit. "Following approval for first line treatment in the US and the EU in 2017, it is a great pleasure for Chugai that Alecensa has been approved for primary treatment in Taiwan followed by Japan and South Korea in the Asia region."
This approval is based on results from the phase III ALEX study. The ALEX study evaluates the efficacy and safety of Alecensa compared with crizotinib in people with ALK-positive NSCLC who had not received prior systemic therapy (first-line).
In the study, Alecensa significantly reduced the risk of disease worsening or death by 47% (primary endpoint, HR=0.53, 95%CI: 0.38-0.73, stratified log-rank test, p<0.0001) compared to crizotinib as assessed by independent review committee. Median progressionfree survival (PFS) was 25.7 months (95%CI: 19.9-not estimable) for people who received Alecensa compared with 10.4 months (95%CI: 7.7-14.6) for people who received crizotinib.
The safety profile of both drugs was consistent with that observed in previous studies, with no new findings.
Chugai Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. announced that Chugai Pharma Taiwan Ltd., a wholly owned subsidiary of Chugai, obtained approval from the Taiwan Food and Drug Administration (TFDA), for "Alecensa," anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) inhibitor, for the treatment of "patients with ALK-positive, advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC)."
“The results of the J-ALEX study conducted by Chugai and the ALEX study conducted overseas showed that Alecensa will greatly contribute to the treatment of patients who receive at an early stage." said Dr. Yasushi Ito, Chugai's senior vice president, co-head of project & lifecycle management unit. "Following approval for first line treatment in the US and the EU in 2017, it is a great pleasure for Chugai that Alecensa has been approved for primary treatment in Taiwan followed by Japan and South Korea in the Asia region."
This approval is based on results from the phase III ALEX study. The ALEX study evaluates the efficacy and safety of Alecensa compared with crizotinib in people with ALK-positive NSCLC who had not received prior systemic therapy (first-line).
In the study, Alecensa significantly reduced the risk of disease worsening or death by 47% (primary endpoint, HR=0.53, 95%CI: 0.38-0.73, stratified log-rank test, p<0.0001) compared to crizotinib as assessed by independent review committee. Median progressionfree survival (PFS) was 25.7 months (95%CI: 19.9-not estimable) for people who received Alecensa compared with 10.4 months (95%CI: 7.7-14.6) for people who received crizotinib.
The safety profile of both drugs was consistent with that observed in previous studies, with no new findings.
Hikma Pharma Launches Basilea's Hospital Antibiotic
Zevtera in Saudi Arabia
Basilea Pharmaceutica Ltd. announced that its partner Hikma Pharmaceuticals LLC has launched Basilea's hospital antibiotic Zevtera (ceftobiprole) in Saudi Arabia.
Adesh Kaul, chief corporate development officer, said: "We are very pleased with the launch of Zevtera in Saudi Arabia. This is the first launch by our partner Hikma, a leading pharmaceutical company in the Middle East and North Africa region. Infections with bacteria resistant to established antibiotics remain a major health care concern across this region. Following the market entry in Saudi Arabia we are therefore looking forward to Hikma expanding the availability of Zevtera to further countries in the Middle East and North Africa."
Zevtera is approved in Saudi Arabia for the treatment of adult patients with hospital-acquired pneumonia (HAP), excluding ventilatorassociated pneumonia (VAP), and for the treatment of communityacquired pneumonia (CAP).
Basilea entered into a distribution and license agreement for Zevtera with Hikma in 2015 and for the antifungal Cresemba (isavuconazole) in 2016. Ceftobiprole is a cephalosporin antibiotic for intravenous administration with rapid bactericidal activity against a wide range of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, including methicillinsusceptible and resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA, MRSA) and susceptible Pseudomonas spp.1 Ceftobiprole is approved for the treatment of adult patients with community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) and hospital-acquired pneumonia (HAP), excluding ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP).1 It is marketed in major European countries, Argentina, Canada and Saudi Arabia. Basilea has entered into license and distribution agreements for the brand in Europe, Latin America, China, Canada, Israel, and the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. Ceftobiprole is currently in a phase 3 clinical program for registration in the US.
Basilea Pharmaceutica Ltd. announced that its partner Hikma Pharmaceuticals LLC has launched Basilea's hospital antibiotic Zevtera (ceftobiprole) in Saudi Arabia.
Adesh Kaul, chief corporate development officer, said: "We are very pleased with the launch of Zevtera in Saudi Arabia. This is the first launch by our partner Hikma, a leading pharmaceutical company in the Middle East and North Africa region. Infections with bacteria resistant to established antibiotics remain a major health care concern across this region. Following the market entry in Saudi Arabia we are therefore looking forward to Hikma expanding the availability of Zevtera to further countries in the Middle East and North Africa."
Zevtera is approved in Saudi Arabia for the treatment of adult patients with hospital-acquired pneumonia (HAP), excluding ventilatorassociated pneumonia (VAP), and for the treatment of communityacquired pneumonia (CAP).
Basilea entered into a distribution and license agreement for Zevtera with Hikma in 2015 and for the antifungal Cresemba (isavuconazole) in 2016. Ceftobiprole is a cephalosporin antibiotic for intravenous administration with rapid bactericidal activity against a wide range of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, including methicillinsusceptible and resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA, MRSA) and susceptible Pseudomonas spp.1 Ceftobiprole is approved for the treatment of adult patients with community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) and hospital-acquired pneumonia (HAP), excluding ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP).1 It is marketed in major European countries, Argentina, Canada and Saudi Arabia. Basilea has entered into license and distribution agreements for the brand in Europe, Latin America, China, Canada, Israel, and the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. Ceftobiprole is currently in a phase 3 clinical program for registration in the US.
Pfizer's Biosimilar Retacrit Gets US FDA Nod
Pfizer Inc. announced the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Retacrit (epoetin alfa-epbx), a biosimilar to Epogen and Procrit (epoetin alfa), for all indications of the reference product. Retacrit is now the first and only biosimilar erythropoiesis-stimulating agent (ESA) to be approved in the US.
"As the first approved epoetin alfa biosimilar in the US, Retacrit may provide patients and their physicians with increased access to a high-quality, lower-cost alternative treatment option for anemia and the reduction of allogeneic red blood cell (RBC) transfusions in certain patients," said Berk Gurdogan, US Institutions President, Pfizer Essential Health. "We are proud of the progress of our biosimilars program to date, which will help address the evolving needs of patients and the broader healthcare community."
The FDA approval was based on a comprehensive data package submitted by Pfizer demonstrating a high degree of similarity between Retacrit and its US reference product, Epogen and Procrit.
In the US, Retacrit is indicated for: Treatment of anemia due to: Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) in patients on dialysis and not on dialysis; Zidovudine in HIV-infected patients; The effects of concomitant myelosuppressive chemotherapy, and upon initiation, there is a minimum of two additional months of planned chemotherapy; Reduction of allogeneic red blood cell (RBC) transfusions in patients undergoing elective, noncardiac, nonvascular surgery.
Pfizer Inc. announced the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Retacrit (epoetin alfa-epbx), a biosimilar to Epogen and Procrit (epoetin alfa), for all indications of the reference product. Retacrit is now the first and only biosimilar erythropoiesis-stimulating agent (ESA) to be approved in the US.
"As the first approved epoetin alfa biosimilar in the US, Retacrit may provide patients and their physicians with increased access to a high-quality, lower-cost alternative treatment option for anemia and the reduction of allogeneic red blood cell (RBC) transfusions in certain patients," said Berk Gurdogan, US Institutions President, Pfizer Essential Health. "We are proud of the progress of our biosimilars program to date, which will help address the evolving needs of patients and the broader healthcare community."
The FDA approval was based on a comprehensive data package submitted by Pfizer demonstrating a high degree of similarity between Retacrit and its US reference product, Epogen and Procrit.
In the US, Retacrit is indicated for: Treatment of anemia due to: Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) in patients on dialysis and not on dialysis; Zidovudine in HIV-infected patients; The effects of concomitant myelosuppressive chemotherapy, and upon initiation, there is a minimum of two additional months of planned chemotherapy; Reduction of allogeneic red blood cell (RBC) transfusions in patients undergoing elective, noncardiac, nonvascular surgery.
HedgePath Pharma Receives Expanded US Patent Coverage
HedgePath Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (HPPI), a clinical stage biopharmaceutical company that discovers, develops and plans to commercialise innovative therapeutics for patients with cancer, announced that the US Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) has issued a new patent to HPPI which expands the company’s patent portfolio.
The new patent is entitled "Treatment and Prognostic Monitoring of Cancerous Proliferation Disorders Using Hedgehog Pathway Inhibitors." The claims covered by the patent relate to the use of the already FDA-approved anti-fungal drug itraconazole being re-purposed by HPPI to treat cancer. A patented formulation of itraconazole is being studied by HPPI as a product candidate for the treatment of cancer.
Nicholas Virca, HPPI’s president and chief executive officer, stated, "This new patent, which has 21 claims, relates to methods for treating cancer by orally administering a formulation of itraconazole that confers superior bio availability compared to conventional formulations of itraconazole. The patent covers treatment of hematologic cancers, such as leukemia or lymphoma, as well as non-hematologic cancers including lung, ovarian, breast, brain and pancreatic cancers. The patent claims also cover treatment of prostate cancer, basal cell carcinoma, and other cancers, and monitoring subjects undergoing such treatments based on biomarkers and other criteria predictive of efficacy. Issuance of this patent strengthens and expands the scope of patent protection provided by our first patent, US Patent No. 9,192,609, which issued on November 24, 2015."
The basic premise behind HPPI’s proposed therapy is that in certain cancers, the Hedgehog pathway, a major regulator of many fundamental cellular processes, malfunctions, thus leading to the formation of cancerous cells. Itraconazole appears to act on the essential Hedgehog pathway component called Smoothened (SMO) in a manner that is different than the FDA-approved drug vismodegib by preventing the ciliary accumulation of SMO normally caused by Hedgehog stimulation. Itraconazole also has a much shorter half-life than vismodegib, which may be the reason it has less side effects than vismodegib
HedgePath Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (HPPI), a clinical stage biopharmaceutical company that discovers, develops and plans to commercialise innovative therapeutics for patients with cancer, announced that the US Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) has issued a new patent to HPPI which expands the company’s patent portfolio.
The new patent is entitled "Treatment and Prognostic Monitoring of Cancerous Proliferation Disorders Using Hedgehog Pathway Inhibitors." The claims covered by the patent relate to the use of the already FDA-approved anti-fungal drug itraconazole being re-purposed by HPPI to treat cancer. A patented formulation of itraconazole is being studied by HPPI as a product candidate for the treatment of cancer.
Nicholas Virca, HPPI’s president and chief executive officer, stated, "This new patent, which has 21 claims, relates to methods for treating cancer by orally administering a formulation of itraconazole that confers superior bio availability compared to conventional formulations of itraconazole. The patent covers treatment of hematologic cancers, such as leukemia or lymphoma, as well as non-hematologic cancers including lung, ovarian, breast, brain and pancreatic cancers. The patent claims also cover treatment of prostate cancer, basal cell carcinoma, and other cancers, and monitoring subjects undergoing such treatments based on biomarkers and other criteria predictive of efficacy. Issuance of this patent strengthens and expands the scope of patent protection provided by our first patent, US Patent No. 9,192,609, which issued on November 24, 2015."
The basic premise behind HPPI’s proposed therapy is that in certain cancers, the Hedgehog pathway, a major regulator of many fundamental cellular processes, malfunctions, thus leading to the formation of cancerous cells. Itraconazole appears to act on the essential Hedgehog pathway component called Smoothened (SMO) in a manner that is different than the FDA-approved drug vismodegib by preventing the ciliary accumulation of SMO normally caused by Hedgehog stimulation. Itraconazole also has a much shorter half-life than vismodegib, which may be the reason it has less side effects than vismodegib
Daiichi Sankyo Introduces Naruvein Injection in Japan
to Treat Cancer Pain
Daiichi Sankyo Company, Limited has launched in Japan Naruvein injection 2 mg • 20 mg (generic name: hydromorphone hydrochloride) for cancer pain treatment.
Hydromorphone hydrochloride is an opium-based narcotic analgesic that has been sold for more than 80 years outside Japan and positioned as the standard drug for pain management in the World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines for cancer pain treatment.
Joining the currently marketed extended-release formulation, Narusus tablets, and immediate-release formulation, Narurapid tablets, the injection formulation, Naruvein injection, is a new addition to Daiichi Sankyo’s analgesic line-up to help meet the diverse needs of patients and health care professionals in Japan.
Hydromorphone hydrochloride is one of the agents publicly offered for development by the Review Committee on Unapproved Drugs and Indications with High Medical Needs. Daiichi Sankyo decided to develop the drug in 2012, and received a grant from the Pharmaceutical Development Support Center for its development.
Daiichi Sankyo is committed to making unapproved and off-label drugs with high medical needs available to the patients who are waiting for them.
Daiichi Sankyo Company, Limited has launched in Japan Naruvein injection 2 mg • 20 mg (generic name: hydromorphone hydrochloride) for cancer pain treatment.
Hydromorphone hydrochloride is an opium-based narcotic analgesic that has been sold for more than 80 years outside Japan and positioned as the standard drug for pain management in the World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines for cancer pain treatment.
Joining the currently marketed extended-release formulation, Narusus tablets, and immediate-release formulation, Narurapid tablets, the injection formulation, Naruvein injection, is a new addition to Daiichi Sankyo’s analgesic line-up to help meet the diverse needs of patients and health care professionals in Japan.
Hydromorphone hydrochloride is one of the agents publicly offered for development by the Review Committee on Unapproved Drugs and Indications with High Medical Needs. Daiichi Sankyo decided to develop the drug in 2012, and received a grant from the Pharmaceutical Development Support Center for its development.
Daiichi Sankyo is committed to making unapproved and off-label drugs with high medical needs available to the patients who are waiting for them.
Premas Life Sciences Announces Partnership with
Leading Secondary Analysis Provider Edico Genome
Premas Life Sciences and Edico Genome has announced a new sales distribution agreement, appointing Premas Life Sciences as the sole distributor of Edico Genome's DRAGEN Bio-IT Platform in India. DRAGEN delivers industry leading speed and accuracy, earning top marks for its accuracy in the latest PrecisionFDA Challenge and two Guinness World Records™ for its speed.
Through this partnership, Premas Life Sciences will bring Edico Genome's best-in-class DRAGEN Bio-IT Platform and comprehensive suite of DRAGEN pipelines to life science organizations throughout India.
"We are proud of our association as the sole distributor for the leading secondary analysis solution provider for next-generation sequencing (NGS)," said Praveen Gupta, Managing Director of Premas Life Sciences. "Genome Centers and Researchers in India will greatly benefit from the flexibility, speed and accuracy that the DRAGEN platform delivers for their projects."
Leveraging field-programmable gate array (FPGA) technology, DRAGEN can process an entire human genome at 30x coverage in 20 minutes, as compared to over 20 hours using traditional CPU based message. The DRAGEN platform offers accuracy, speed and scalability allowing customers of all sizes to emphasize on what is most significant- delivering breakthrough results. The all-inclusive set of DRAGEN pipelines can be run onsite, in the Cloud or through a seamless hybrid cloud blend, facilitating organizations to scale as their throughput fluctuates.
Premas Life Sciences and Edico Genome has announced a new sales distribution agreement, appointing Premas Life Sciences as the sole distributor of Edico Genome's DRAGEN Bio-IT Platform in India. DRAGEN delivers industry leading speed and accuracy, earning top marks for its accuracy in the latest PrecisionFDA Challenge and two Guinness World Records™ for its speed.
Through this partnership, Premas Life Sciences will bring Edico Genome's best-in-class DRAGEN Bio-IT Platform and comprehensive suite of DRAGEN pipelines to life science organizations throughout India.
"We are proud of our association as the sole distributor for the leading secondary analysis solution provider for next-generation sequencing (NGS)," said Praveen Gupta, Managing Director of Premas Life Sciences. "Genome Centers and Researchers in India will greatly benefit from the flexibility, speed and accuracy that the DRAGEN platform delivers for their projects."
Leveraging field-programmable gate array (FPGA) technology, DRAGEN can process an entire human genome at 30x coverage in 20 minutes, as compared to over 20 hours using traditional CPU based message. The DRAGEN platform offers accuracy, speed and scalability allowing customers of all sizes to emphasize on what is most significant- delivering breakthrough results. The all-inclusive set of DRAGEN pipelines can be run onsite, in the Cloud or through a seamless hybrid cloud blend, facilitating organizations to scale as their throughput fluctuates.
AstraZeneca Sells Seroquel to Luye Pharma
British pharma company AstraZeneca said it had sold the rights for Seroquel, a treatment for schizophrenia and bipolar disease, to Luye Pharma Group for USD 538 million, as part of a strategy to focus on other therapy areas.
AstraZeneca said it had sold the rights for the treatments, named Seroquel and Seroquel XR, in the UK, China and other international markets, in a deal which will give it USD 260 million once the transaction closes, followed by future payments.
"The agreement with Luye Pharma is in line with AstraZeneca's strategy to focus on three main therapy areas while maximising the value from our legacy medicines like Seroquel," said Astra's executive vice president Mark Mallon in a statement
British pharma company AstraZeneca said it had sold the rights for Seroquel, a treatment for schizophrenia and bipolar disease, to Luye Pharma Group for USD 538 million, as part of a strategy to focus on other therapy areas.
AstraZeneca said it had sold the rights for the treatments, named Seroquel and Seroquel XR, in the UK, China and other international markets, in a deal which will give it USD 260 million once the transaction closes, followed by future payments.
"The agreement with Luye Pharma is in line with AstraZeneca's strategy to focus on three main therapy areas while maximising the value from our legacy medicines like Seroquel," said Astra's executive vice president Mark Mallon in a statement
Sciformix Launches Safety and Risk Management
Technology Platform for Life Science Customers
Sciformix Corporation, a leading scientific knowledge-based services organization, has launched a platform of new technology solutions to greatly expand its capabilities to offer end-to-end solutions in the area of Safety & Risk Management. This expansion is part of Sciformix's strategy to address today's unmet technology services needs for life sciences customers.
For life science organizations, the journey from pharmacovigilance (PV) system selection to a production-ready, optimized PV technology platform is a time consuming, costly process that requires significant experience and knowledge. As the requirements of technology infrastructure and regulatory compliance increase in complexity, the effort required to implement and maintain PV information systems also expands.To reduce this complexity, Sciformix has enhanced its capabilities by launching the Sciformix Safety and Risk Management Technology Platform. The platform includes best in class industry solutions, internally developed integrations and automations, proprietary IT QMS processes, and expertise to provide end-to-end safety services.
Sciformix is now hosting and offering 3 new market leading solutions that can be deployed as a standalone or an integrated solution set. These gold standard solutions are cloud based, compliant and secure making them easy to deploy, scale and maintain for today's ever changing environments.
Sciformix Corporation, a leading scientific knowledge-based services organization, has launched a platform of new technology solutions to greatly expand its capabilities to offer end-to-end solutions in the area of Safety & Risk Management. This expansion is part of Sciformix's strategy to address today's unmet technology services needs for life sciences customers.
For life science organizations, the journey from pharmacovigilance (PV) system selection to a production-ready, optimized PV technology platform is a time consuming, costly process that requires significant experience and knowledge. As the requirements of technology infrastructure and regulatory compliance increase in complexity, the effort required to implement and maintain PV information systems also expands.To reduce this complexity, Sciformix has enhanced its capabilities by launching the Sciformix Safety and Risk Management Technology Platform. The platform includes best in class industry solutions, internally developed integrations and automations, proprietary IT QMS processes, and expertise to provide end-to-end safety services.
Sciformix is now hosting and offering 3 new market leading solutions that can be deployed as a standalone or an integrated solution set. These gold standard solutions are cloud based, compliant and secure making them easy to deploy, scale and maintain for today's ever changing environments.
US FDA Approves Granules Generic Methylergonovine
Tablets
Granules India Ltd. announced that the US FDA has approved its Abbreviated New Drug Applications (ANDA) for methylergonovine 0.2 mg tablets. The ANDA was filed by Granules Pharmaceuticals Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Granules India Limited. The approved ANDA is the bioequivalent to the reference listed drug product (RLD), Methergine 0.2 mg.
Methylergonovine is a semi-synthetic ergot alkaloid used for the prevention and control of postpartum haemorrhage.
"Granules Pharmaceuticals Inc., our R & D and manufacturing subsidiary in Virginia was established with an objective to foray into the development and manufacture of products that are niche, on several levels. Our first product approval from this site is a "first generic," to the market and is a testimony to our objectives and execution capabilities," said Krishna Prasad Chigurupati, chairman and managing director, Granules India Limited.
Granules India is a growing pharmaceutical manufacturing company with best in class facilities and is committed to operational excellence, quality and customer service.
Granules India Ltd. announced that the US FDA has approved its Abbreviated New Drug Applications (ANDA) for methylergonovine 0.2 mg tablets. The ANDA was filed by Granules Pharmaceuticals Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Granules India Limited. The approved ANDA is the bioequivalent to the reference listed drug product (RLD), Methergine 0.2 mg.
Methylergonovine is a semi-synthetic ergot alkaloid used for the prevention and control of postpartum haemorrhage.
"Granules Pharmaceuticals Inc., our R & D and manufacturing subsidiary in Virginia was established with an objective to foray into the development and manufacture of products that are niche, on several levels. Our first product approval from this site is a "first generic," to the market and is a testimony to our objectives and execution capabilities," said Krishna Prasad Chigurupati, chairman and managing director, Granules India Limited.
Granules India is a growing pharmaceutical manufacturing company with best in class facilities and is committed to operational excellence, quality and customer service.
Epygen to Raise 300 Cr to Propel
Biosimilars in India
After having spent seven years on technology incubation in India and more than a decade of Biotechnology research abroad, Epygen Biotech, one of the leading privately held biotechnology companies in India plans to raise 300 crore in the next three years to fuel launch of its exciting Biosimilar pipeline.
The funding will provide Epygen with the best possible conditions to propel clinical trial programs of its pipeline molecules in the field of Oncology and Cardiology, which are showing substantial promise in protein expression and purification.
With several decades of recombinant protein background, the company aims to take a lead role in the biosimilar field in the region. From a pipeline full with E Coli and mammalian proteins, the company has chosen to launch a stepping stone Biosimilar Recombinant Streptokinase (rSK) for the cardiovascular segment in India by 2019. This product is of utmost national interest as 17 lakh people die of heart attack in India every year and other thrombolytic proteins is more than ten times in cost. This technology is befitting to the current programme assuring "Healtahcare for all".
The company is upgrading its R & D capabilities setting up a 1,00,000 sqft Biopharmaceutical facility in Patalganga, Maharashtra, where Phase-I of the Project is dedicated to E Coli based biosimilars for Cardiovascular, Oncology and Rheumatology and Phase-II to make mammalian cell based monoclonal antibodies for Oncology, jointly targeting more than $ 10 billion market. The fresh fund infusion would be utlilized for clinical trials of the pipeline molecules and securing intellectual property (IP) for a range of medium and late stage technologies for Novel Biological Entities in Oncology and CNS segments.
After having spent seven years on technology incubation in India and more than a decade of Biotechnology research abroad, Epygen Biotech, one of the leading privately held biotechnology companies in India plans to raise 300 crore in the next three years to fuel launch of its exciting Biosimilar pipeline.
The funding will provide Epygen with the best possible conditions to propel clinical trial programs of its pipeline molecules in the field of Oncology and Cardiology, which are showing substantial promise in protein expression and purification.
With several decades of recombinant protein background, the company aims to take a lead role in the biosimilar field in the region. From a pipeline full with E Coli and mammalian proteins, the company has chosen to launch a stepping stone Biosimilar Recombinant Streptokinase (rSK) for the cardiovascular segment in India by 2019. This product is of utmost national interest as 17 lakh people die of heart attack in India every year and other thrombolytic proteins is more than ten times in cost. This technology is befitting to the current programme assuring "Healtahcare for all".
The company is upgrading its R & D capabilities setting up a 1,00,000 sqft Biopharmaceutical facility in Patalganga, Maharashtra, where Phase-I of the Project is dedicated to E Coli based biosimilars for Cardiovascular, Oncology and Rheumatology and Phase-II to make mammalian cell based monoclonal antibodies for Oncology, jointly targeting more than $ 10 billion market. The fresh fund infusion would be utlilized for clinical trials of the pipeline molecules and securing intellectual property (IP) for a range of medium and late stage technologies for Novel Biological Entities in Oncology and CNS segments.
Intas Pharmaceuticals brings down Cancer treatment
cost by 60%
Intas Pharmaceuticals Limited, India's one of the fastest growing pharmaceutical company, is pleased to announce a big step which will bring relief to large number of cancer patients in the country for whom the drug - Bevacizumab was out of reach till today. Intas's bevacizumab therapy is priced at Rs. 39995 for the dose strength of 400 mg variant which makes it 60% less than the currently available options.
Every year over 7 lakh patients die due to various types of cancer in India. At Intas we believe in the philosophy of "Patient First". Hence, in order to relieve the patients from the financial burden associated with the treatment, this cost effective measure is implemented by the organisation. The step is entirely focussed in making the drug treatment accessible to cancer patients in India thus, providing them with a beacon of hope in their fight against the disease.
Bevacizumab is a drug which works by slowing the growth of new blood vessels and is used in treating multiple-cancers like colorectal cancer, ovarian cancer, cervical cancer, lung cancer and recurrent glioblastoma (a type of brain tumour). The drug has been available in India since 2004 but the cost has been so prohibitive that as per eminent clinicians of the country they have been able to give this drug to very few eligible patients.
Intas Pharmaceuticals Limited, India's one of the fastest growing pharmaceutical company, is pleased to announce a big step which will bring relief to large number of cancer patients in the country for whom the drug - Bevacizumab was out of reach till today. Intas's bevacizumab therapy is priced at Rs. 39995 for the dose strength of 400 mg variant which makes it 60% less than the currently available options.
Every year over 7 lakh patients die due to various types of cancer in India. At Intas we believe in the philosophy of "Patient First". Hence, in order to relieve the patients from the financial burden associated with the treatment, this cost effective measure is implemented by the organisation. The step is entirely focussed in making the drug treatment accessible to cancer patients in India thus, providing them with a beacon of hope in their fight against the disease.
Bevacizumab is a drug which works by slowing the growth of new blood vessels and is used in treating multiple-cancers like colorectal cancer, ovarian cancer, cervical cancer, lung cancer and recurrent glioblastoma (a type of brain tumour). The drug has been available in India since 2004 but the cost has been so prohibitive that as per eminent clinicians of the country they have been able to give this drug to very few eligible patients.
Cipla to Market MannKind's Afrezza in India
Cipla, a 14,280 crore plus fourth largest pharma major, has entered into an exclusive marketing and distribution agreement with USbased MannKind Corporation for Afrezza in India. Afrezza is the only US FDA approved inhaled insulin available for patients suffering from diabetes.
Available by prescription, Afrezza (insulin human) inhalation powder is a rapid-acting inhaled insulin indicated to improve glycemic control in adult patients with diabetes mellitus. Afrezza consists of a dry powder formulation of human insulin delivered from a small and portable inhaler. Administered at the beginning of a meal, Afrezza dissolves rapidly upon inhalation to the lung and passes quickly into the bloodstream (in less than one minute). This rapid absorption allows Afrezza to begin reducing blood sugar levels within about 12 minutes of administration. Afrezza is available in 4-unit, 8-unit and 12-unit single-dose cartridges of insulin powder that can be used, as prescribed by a health care professional, in combination with other diabetes medications to achieve target blood sugar levels.
Cipla, a 14,280 crore plus fourth largest pharma major, has entered into an exclusive marketing and distribution agreement with USbased MannKind Corporation for Afrezza in India. Afrezza is the only US FDA approved inhaled insulin available for patients suffering from diabetes.
Available by prescription, Afrezza (insulin human) inhalation powder is a rapid-acting inhaled insulin indicated to improve glycemic control in adult patients with diabetes mellitus. Afrezza consists of a dry powder formulation of human insulin delivered from a small and portable inhaler. Administered at the beginning of a meal, Afrezza dissolves rapidly upon inhalation to the lung and passes quickly into the bloodstream (in less than one minute). This rapid absorption allows Afrezza to begin reducing blood sugar levels within about 12 minutes of administration. Afrezza is available in 4-unit, 8-unit and 12-unit single-dose cartridges of insulin powder that can be used, as prescribed by a health care professional, in combination with other diabetes medications to achieve target blood sugar levels.
Intelligent Upgrade Wisdom Pharmacy
2018 China International Pharma 4.0 Summit Successfully Ended At the Longemont Shanghaion May 18th
During May 17-18, 2018, 2018 China International Pharma 4.0 Summit held by Borscon Group was ceremoniously convened in The Longemont Shanghai. This summit was strongly supported by important institutions at home and abroad such as Ministry of industry and information technology, China Chemical Pharmaceutical Industry Association, ISPE member unit -Lachman Consultants, Fraunhofer IPK Research Institute, China Pharmaceutical City, Optics Valley Bio City, etc. and related leaders.
The splendor of the occasion surpassed anything heretofore seen, the world's top pharmaceutical companies and world-renowned smart pharmaceutical solutions providers gathered in Shanghai, to create a high-end technology and information exchange feast for the pharmaceutical industry.
Mr. Wu Haidong, deputy director of the consumer products division of the Ministry of industry and information technology, Mr. Pan Guangcheng, executive chairman of China Chemical Pharmaceutical Industry Association came to the meeting, taking a deep interpretation of the nineteen largest party of the party and the strategic planning of manufacturing in China for the high quality development of the pharmaceutical industry in 2025; the summit also successfully invited the experts and scholars of Pfizer, GSK, Yang Sen, Sanofi, and Tian Shi Li, separately taking a discussion of multi angle and deep level for the application and development of advanced pharmaceutical technology such as continuous manufacturing, PCMM system, innovation driven, virtualization, modularization, informatization and digitalization and so on, as well as the intelligent upgrading and transformation of Chinese traditional medicine. In addition, many top smart technology suppliers such as Cheng Yi Tong, CHIEFTAIN, SIEMENS, Swisslog, Rockwell Automation and so on brought solutions of Landing and realizing the customization, efficiency, flexibility and precision of pharmaceutical 4.0 and actual cases. The thematic sharing that unusually brilliant -- with high lights of the above made the 153 representatives present have receive a great deal of outstanding especially 80 executives, directors and managers from the pharmaceutical development, manufacturing, and quality control departments of the pharmaceutical factory. In addition to the topic speech in the field, the site was also integrated into a variety of communication links such as round table discussion, tea break and outdoor display and so on, for providing the possibility of more opportunities for cooperation for the participants.
With the help of the big background of China's manufacture of 2025, combined with the German industry 4.0 and the advanced manufacturing in the United States , based on the actual situation of the development of Chinese pharmaceutical enterprises, it aims to build the best communication platform for industrial upgrading, and promote international exchange and cooperation in China's pharmaceutical industry.
2018 China International Pharma 4.0 Summit Successfully Ended At the Longemont Shanghaion May 18th
During May 17-18, 2018, 2018 China International Pharma 4.0 Summit held by Borscon Group was ceremoniously convened in The Longemont Shanghai. This summit was strongly supported by important institutions at home and abroad such as Ministry of industry and information technology, China Chemical Pharmaceutical Industry Association, ISPE member unit -Lachman Consultants, Fraunhofer IPK Research Institute, China Pharmaceutical City, Optics Valley Bio City, etc. and related leaders.
The splendor of the occasion surpassed anything heretofore seen, the world's top pharmaceutical companies and world-renowned smart pharmaceutical solutions providers gathered in Shanghai, to create a high-end technology and information exchange feast for the pharmaceutical industry.
Mr. Wu Haidong, deputy director of the consumer products division of the Ministry of industry and information technology, Mr. Pan Guangcheng, executive chairman of China Chemical Pharmaceutical Industry Association came to the meeting, taking a deep interpretation of the nineteen largest party of the party and the strategic planning of manufacturing in China for the high quality development of the pharmaceutical industry in 2025; the summit also successfully invited the experts and scholars of Pfizer, GSK, Yang Sen, Sanofi, and Tian Shi Li, separately taking a discussion of multi angle and deep level for the application and development of advanced pharmaceutical technology such as continuous manufacturing, PCMM system, innovation driven, virtualization, modularization, informatization and digitalization and so on, as well as the intelligent upgrading and transformation of Chinese traditional medicine. In addition, many top smart technology suppliers such as Cheng Yi Tong, CHIEFTAIN, SIEMENS, Swisslog, Rockwell Automation and so on brought solutions of Landing and realizing the customization, efficiency, flexibility and precision of pharmaceutical 4.0 and actual cases. The thematic sharing that unusually brilliant -- with high lights of the above made the 153 representatives present have receive a great deal of outstanding especially 80 executives, directors and managers from the pharmaceutical development, manufacturing, and quality control departments of the pharmaceutical factory. In addition to the topic speech in the field, the site was also integrated into a variety of communication links such as round table discussion, tea break and outdoor display and so on, for providing the possibility of more opportunities for cooperation for the participants.
With the help of the big background of China's manufacture of 2025, combined with the German industry 4.0 and the advanced manufacturing in the United States , based on the actual situation of the development of Chinese pharmaceutical enterprises, it aims to build the best communication platform for industrial upgrading, and promote international exchange and cooperation in China's pharmaceutical industry.
Apitope phase 1 trial to treat Graves' disease
reports positive results
first-in-class antigen-specific immunotherapies targeting autoimmune diseases, announced positive results from the Phase I first in man clinical trial of its product candidate, ATX-GD-59, in development for the treatment of Graves' disease.
Graves' disease is one of the most common autoimmune diseases with approximately 10 million patients across Europe and the US and yet there have been no innovative treatments in more than 60 years. With Graves' disease, the immune system mistakenly attacks the thyroid gland and causes it to become overactive. Symptoms can include an enlargement of the thyroid gland, swelling of the neck, localised abnormalities of skin, tremors, heat intolerance and sweating, significant weight loss, osteoporosis, atrial fibrillation and ocular changes in patients. Each year 20-30 out of every 100,000 people are newly diagnosed with Graves' disease. The ratio of women versus men diagnosed with Graves' disease is 6:1 and around 2 percent of all women will develop Graves' disease during their lifetime.
The phase I clinical study met the primary endpoint to assess the safety and tolerability of ATX-GD-59 in 12 patients with Graves' disease. The majority of the per protocol subjects were either euthyroid, the clinical objective of therapy, or close to being euthyroid by the end of treatment; the effect was maintained during the 3 months follow up off therapy. Importantly, TSHR antibody levels were also reduced with close correlations between percentage decreases in antibody and thyroid hormone levels in line with the mechanism of action.
The investigational product was administered intradermally (ID) every two weeks over a period of 18 weeks in male and female patients that were not otherwise being treated with anti-thyroid therapy. Following a titration period of 25, 50, 100, 400 and 800 μg in the initial eight weeks of treatment, a dose of 800 μg was administered fortnightly for an additional 10 weeks, comparable to the regime followed in the successful ATX-MS-1467 multiple sclerosis (MS) trials.
first-in-class antigen-specific immunotherapies targeting autoimmune diseases, announced positive results from the Phase I first in man clinical trial of its product candidate, ATX-GD-59, in development for the treatment of Graves' disease.
Graves' disease is one of the most common autoimmune diseases with approximately 10 million patients across Europe and the US and yet there have been no innovative treatments in more than 60 years. With Graves' disease, the immune system mistakenly attacks the thyroid gland and causes it to become overactive. Symptoms can include an enlargement of the thyroid gland, swelling of the neck, localised abnormalities of skin, tremors, heat intolerance and sweating, significant weight loss, osteoporosis, atrial fibrillation and ocular changes in patients. Each year 20-30 out of every 100,000 people are newly diagnosed with Graves' disease. The ratio of women versus men diagnosed with Graves' disease is 6:1 and around 2 percent of all women will develop Graves' disease during their lifetime.
The phase I clinical study met the primary endpoint to assess the safety and tolerability of ATX-GD-59 in 12 patients with Graves' disease. The majority of the per protocol subjects were either euthyroid, the clinical objective of therapy, or close to being euthyroid by the end of treatment; the effect was maintained during the 3 months follow up off therapy. Importantly, TSHR antibody levels were also reduced with close correlations between percentage decreases in antibody and thyroid hormone levels in line with the mechanism of action.
The investigational product was administered intradermally (ID) every two weeks over a period of 18 weeks in male and female patients that were not otherwise being treated with anti-thyroid therapy. Following a titration period of 25, 50, 100, 400 and 800 μg in the initial eight weeks of treatment, a dose of 800 μg was administered fortnightly for an additional 10 weeks, comparable to the regime followed in the successful ATX-MS-1467 multiple sclerosis (MS) trials.
Temasek to buy 31 million shares of Bayer
Bayer announced that Temasek, an investment company headquartered in Singapore, signed an agreement to subscribe to 31 million new shares of Bayer, corresponding to around 3.6 percent of the capital stock, for total gross proceeds of 3 billion euros. With the consent of the Supervisory Board, the Board of Management of Bayer AG resolved to execute the capital increase out of authorized capital against cash contributions and excluding the subscription rights of existing Bayer shareholders.
Under the agreement, Bayer is to issue to a subsidiary of Temasek at an at -market price the new registered (no-par value) shares with an entitlement to dividends as of January 1, 2017.
On completion of the capital increase, together with its existing shareholdings in Bayer, Temasek will hold approximately 4 percent of the issued capital stock of Bayer. The shares issued to Temasek will not be subject to any lock-up period .
The proceeds from this placement will be taken into account when determining the size of the previously announced share capital increase through a rights offering with subscription rights to existing shareholders to finance the proposed acquisition of Monsanto.
Bayer is a global enterprise with core competencies in the life science fields of health care and agriculture. Its products and services are designed to benefit people and improve their quality of life.
Incorporated in 1974, Temasek is an investment company headquartered in Singapore. Supported by 11 offices internationally, Temasek owns a portfolio of 275 billion Singapore dollars (184 billion euros) as of March 31, 2017, mainly in Singapore and the rest of Asia.
Bayer announced that Temasek, an investment company headquartered in Singapore, signed an agreement to subscribe to 31 million new shares of Bayer, corresponding to around 3.6 percent of the capital stock, for total gross proceeds of 3 billion euros. With the consent of the Supervisory Board, the Board of Management of Bayer AG resolved to execute the capital increase out of authorized capital against cash contributions and excluding the subscription rights of existing Bayer shareholders.
Under the agreement, Bayer is to issue to a subsidiary of Temasek at an at -market price the new registered (no-par value) shares with an entitlement to dividends as of January 1, 2017.
On completion of the capital increase, together with its existing shareholdings in Bayer, Temasek will hold approximately 4 percent of the issued capital stock of Bayer. The shares issued to Temasek will not be subject to any lock-up period .
The proceeds from this placement will be taken into account when determining the size of the previously announced share capital increase through a rights offering with subscription rights to existing shareholders to finance the proposed acquisition of Monsanto.
Bayer is a global enterprise with core competencies in the life science fields of health care and agriculture. Its products and services are designed to benefit people and improve their quality of life.
Incorporated in 1974, Temasek is an investment company headquartered in Singapore. Supported by 11 offices internationally, Temasek owns a portfolio of 275 billion Singapore dollars (184 billion euros) as of March 31, 2017, mainly in Singapore and the rest of Asia.
PRAC to review risk of dosing errors with methotrexate
The Pharmacovigilance Risk Assessment Committee (PRAC) has started a review of the risk of dosing errors with methotrexate medicines, used to treat cancers such as acute lymphoblastic leukaemia and various inflammatory conditions including rheumatoid arthritis, juvenile idiopathic arthritis, psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis.
When used for inflammatory diseases, methotrexate is taken once a week, whereas for some types of cancer, the dose is higher and the medicine is used more frequently. Mistakes have led to some patients incorrectly receiving a dose every day instead of every week, with serious consequences in some cases.
The Spanish Agency for Medicines and Health ProductsExternal link icon therefore asked the PRAC to further investigate the reasons why dosing errors continue to occur in order to identify and put in place measures to prevent them.
PRAC to further consider unmet medical needs for hydroxyethylstarch (HES) solutions for infusion
Following the PRAC recommendation in January 2018 to suspend the marketing authorisations for HES solutions for infusion across the EU, the European Commission has requested that the committee further consider any possible unmet medical need that could result from the suspension, as well as the feasibility and likely effectiveness of additional risk minimisation measures.
The PRAC is now looking at these specific aspects and will discuss its recommendation at its May meeting. The PRAC's revised recommendation will then be sent to the Co-ordination Group for Mutual Recognition and Decentralised Procedures - Human (CMDh), which will adopt a final position.
The Pharmacovigilance Risk Assessment Committee (PRAC) has started a review of the risk of dosing errors with methotrexate medicines, used to treat cancers such as acute lymphoblastic leukaemia and various inflammatory conditions including rheumatoid arthritis, juvenile idiopathic arthritis, psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis.
When used for inflammatory diseases, methotrexate is taken once a week, whereas for some types of cancer, the dose is higher and the medicine is used more frequently. Mistakes have led to some patients incorrectly receiving a dose every day instead of every week, with serious consequences in some cases.
The Spanish Agency for Medicines and Health ProductsExternal link icon therefore asked the PRAC to further investigate the reasons why dosing errors continue to occur in order to identify and put in place measures to prevent them.
PRAC to further consider unmet medical needs for hydroxyethylstarch (HES) solutions for infusion
Following the PRAC recommendation in January 2018 to suspend the marketing authorisations for HES solutions for infusion across the EU, the European Commission has requested that the committee further consider any possible unmet medical need that could result from the suspension, as well as the feasibility and likely effectiveness of additional risk minimisation measures.
The PRAC is now looking at these specific aspects and will discuss its recommendation at its May meeting. The PRAC's revised recommendation will then be sent to the Co-ordination Group for Mutual Recognition and Decentralised Procedures - Human (CMDh), which will adopt a final position.
Alcon launches new age monthly
disposable contact lens
Alcon, the global leader in eye care and a division of Novartis, launched their new age monthly disposable contact lens 'Air Optix plus HydraGlyde.' recently. 'Air Optix plus HydraGlyde', has a unique technology called 'SmartShield' that repels dust and grime and ensures clarity of vision through your long day.
Alcon has combined two advanced technologies, ie, SmartShield Technology and HydraGlyde Moisture Matrix, to help provide excellent deposit protection and support long-lasting lens surface moisture. SmartShield Technology helps deliver superior resistance to lipid deposits throughout the lens, through an ultra-thin protective layer to help shield the contact lens wearer. Air Optix plus HydraGlyde contact lenses are made with a highly breathable material that allows nourishing oxygen to flow continuously through the lens, keeping the lenses with longer-lasting hydration for 16 hours for white, healthy-looking eyes.
The contact lenses enable you to focus on your goals through your long day without the hiccups of itching, burning or watering in your eyes and ensure clarity of vision all month long. Now even spectacle users who have resisted contact lenses due to discomfort can try New Air Optix plus HydraGlyde contact lenses. Air Optix plus HydraGlyde are monthly disposable lenses, ideal for those with an active lifestylewhether you have a busy day at the office or play sports.
Alcon, the global leader in eye care and a division of Novartis, launched their new age monthly disposable contact lens 'Air Optix plus HydraGlyde.' recently. 'Air Optix plus HydraGlyde', has a unique technology called 'SmartShield' that repels dust and grime and ensures clarity of vision through your long day.
Alcon has combined two advanced technologies, ie, SmartShield Technology and HydraGlyde Moisture Matrix, to help provide excellent deposit protection and support long-lasting lens surface moisture. SmartShield Technology helps deliver superior resistance to lipid deposits throughout the lens, through an ultra-thin protective layer to help shield the contact lens wearer. Air Optix plus HydraGlyde contact lenses are made with a highly breathable material that allows nourishing oxygen to flow continuously through the lens, keeping the lenses with longer-lasting hydration for 16 hours for white, healthy-looking eyes.
The contact lenses enable you to focus on your goals through your long day without the hiccups of itching, burning or watering in your eyes and ensure clarity of vision all month long. Now even spectacle users who have resisted contact lenses due to discomfort can try New Air Optix plus HydraGlyde contact lenses. Air Optix plus HydraGlyde are monthly disposable lenses, ideal for those with an active lifestylewhether you have a busy day at the office or play sports.
US FDA approves Roche’s cobas CT/NG to detect
Chlamydia trachomatis & Neisseria gonorrhoeae DNA
Roche, a global pioneer in pharmaceuticals and diagnostics company, announced that the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has provided 510(k) clearance for cobas CT/NG for use on the cobas 6800/8800 Systems for the direct detection of Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) and/or Neisseria gonorrhoeae (NG) DNA in both symptomatic and asymptomatic individuals.
cobas CT/NG is the first assay available in the US for the testing of sexually transmitted infections on the cobas 6800/8800 Systems. It is cleared for use with male and female urine specimens, clinicianinstructed self-collected vaginal swab specimens (collected in a clinical setting), clinician-collected vaginal swab specimens, endocervical swab specimens (all collected in cobas PCR media) and cervical specimens collected in PreservCyt Solution. Other STI assays are in development and will further allow laboratories to consolidate high volume STI testing on a single platform. In addition to cobas CT/NG, cobas 6800/8800 Systems menu in the US includes viral load monitoring tests for HIV, HBV, HCV and CMV, as well as MPX, WNV, DPX and Zika for use in screening blood donations. Since its introduction in 2015, the fully automated cobas 6800/8800 Systems have offered labs the fastest time to results with the highest throughput and the longest walk-away time available among automated molecular platforms.
Chlamydia trachomatis is the most common bacterial Sexually Transmitted Disease (STD), with the highest prevalence among youth. Routine screening for chlamydial infection in young women has been demonstrated to reduce infection rates and the longterm consequences of untreated disease, as well as lowering the financial burden on the healthcare system. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends annual Chlamydia trachomatis screening for all sexually active females under 25 years old and additional testing for pregnant women and those with risk factors.1 Since 2014, the cobas 6800 and cobas 8800 Systems have established the new standard for routine molecular testing by delivering fully integrated, automated solutions that serve the areas of viral load monitoring, donor screening, sexual health and microbiology. Based on Nobel prize-winning PCR technology, the systems deliver proven performance with full automation, increased throughput, fast turnaround time and complete track connectivity, providing users with greater flexibility to consolidate their testing to a single system while increasing overall workflow efficiencies.
Roche, a global pioneer in pharmaceuticals and diagnostics company, announced that the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has provided 510(k) clearance for cobas CT/NG for use on the cobas 6800/8800 Systems for the direct detection of Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) and/or Neisseria gonorrhoeae (NG) DNA in both symptomatic and asymptomatic individuals.
cobas CT/NG is the first assay available in the US for the testing of sexually transmitted infections on the cobas 6800/8800 Systems. It is cleared for use with male and female urine specimens, clinicianinstructed self-collected vaginal swab specimens (collected in a clinical setting), clinician-collected vaginal swab specimens, endocervical swab specimens (all collected in cobas PCR media) and cervical specimens collected in PreservCyt Solution. Other STI assays are in development and will further allow laboratories to consolidate high volume STI testing on a single platform. In addition to cobas CT/NG, cobas 6800/8800 Systems menu in the US includes viral load monitoring tests for HIV, HBV, HCV and CMV, as well as MPX, WNV, DPX and Zika for use in screening blood donations. Since its introduction in 2015, the fully automated cobas 6800/8800 Systems have offered labs the fastest time to results with the highest throughput and the longest walk-away time available among automated molecular platforms.
Chlamydia trachomatis is the most common bacterial Sexually Transmitted Disease (STD), with the highest prevalence among youth. Routine screening for chlamydial infection in young women has been demonstrated to reduce infection rates and the longterm consequences of untreated disease, as well as lowering the financial burden on the healthcare system. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends annual Chlamydia trachomatis screening for all sexually active females under 25 years old and additional testing for pregnant women and those with risk factors.1 Since 2014, the cobas 6800 and cobas 8800 Systems have established the new standard for routine molecular testing by delivering fully integrated, automated solutions that serve the areas of viral load monitoring, donor screening, sexual health and microbiology. Based on Nobel prize-winning PCR technology, the systems deliver proven performance with full automation, increased throughput, fast turnaround time and complete track connectivity, providing users with greater flexibility to consolidate their testing to a single system while increasing overall workflow efficiencies.
Novartis helps to preserve kidney function in heart
failure patients with diabetes
Novartis announced a new post hoc analysis of the pivotal phase III heart failure study, PARADIGM-HF, demonstrating that treatment with Entresto (sacubitril/valsartan) helped to preserve kidney function, as assessed by estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), in patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF). HFrEF patients treated with Entresto had a slower rate of decline in eGFR than those treated with ACE inhibitor enalapril. In a sub group of patients who had both HFrEF and diabetes, the magnitude of benefit was twice as high. The findings of the analysis are published in The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology.
Non-diabetic HFrEF patients in the PARADIGM-HF study were shown to lose kidney function twice as fast as the general population. This was further accelerated in HFrEF patients with diabetes, who experienced a decline in kidney function that was twice as fast as the non-diabetic patients. When compared with enalapril, treatment with Entresto significantly slowed this decline in all HFrEF patients (-1.3 vs -1.8 ml/min/1.73 m per year).In HFrEF patients who also had diabetes, the benefit of treatment with Entresto was doubled vs. those without diabetes (+0.6 (0.4, 0.8) vs. +0.3 (0.2, 0.5) ml/min/1.73m per year).
Entresto is a twice-a-day medicine that reduces the strain on the failing heart. It does this by enhancing the protective neurohormonal systems (natriuretic peptide system) while simultaneously inhibiting the harmful effects of the overactive renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS). Other common heart failure medicines, called angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors and angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs), only block the harmful effects of the overactive RAAS. Entresto contains the neprilysin inhibitor sacubitril and the angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB) valsartan.
Novartis announced a new post hoc analysis of the pivotal phase III heart failure study, PARADIGM-HF, demonstrating that treatment with Entresto (sacubitril/valsartan) helped to preserve kidney function, as assessed by estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), in patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF). HFrEF patients treated with Entresto had a slower rate of decline in eGFR than those treated with ACE inhibitor enalapril. In a sub group of patients who had both HFrEF and diabetes, the magnitude of benefit was twice as high. The findings of the analysis are published in The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology.
Non-diabetic HFrEF patients in the PARADIGM-HF study were shown to lose kidney function twice as fast as the general population. This was further accelerated in HFrEF patients with diabetes, who experienced a decline in kidney function that was twice as fast as the non-diabetic patients. When compared with enalapril, treatment with Entresto significantly slowed this decline in all HFrEF patients (-1.3 vs -1.8 ml/min/1.73 m per year).In HFrEF patients who also had diabetes, the benefit of treatment with Entresto was doubled vs. those without diabetes (+0.6 (0.4, 0.8) vs. +0.3 (0.2, 0.5) ml/min/1.73m per year).
Entresto is a twice-a-day medicine that reduces the strain on the failing heart. It does this by enhancing the protective neurohormonal systems (natriuretic peptide system) while simultaneously inhibiting the harmful effects of the overactive renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS). Other common heart failure medicines, called angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors and angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs), only block the harmful effects of the overactive RAAS. Entresto contains the neprilysin inhibitor sacubitril and the angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB) valsartan.
Adocia begins phase 1 study of insulin in people with
type 1 diabetes
Adocia , a biopharma company, announced the initiation of a phase 1 study of BioChaperone Pramlintide Insulin (BC Pram Ins), its ready-to-use co-formulation of pramlintide and human insulin. The BioChaperone proprietary technology enables the solubilization and stabilization, in aqueous solution at neutral pH, of pramlintide, the only FDA-approved amylin analog for the treatment of diabetes, hence allowing its combination with insulin.
This study aims to investigate the pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and the safety and tolerability of BC Pram Ins in people with type 1 diabetes compared to separate injections of human insulin (Humulin, Eli Lilly) and pramlintide (Symlin, AstraZeneca), and also to an injection of insulin lispro (Humalog, Eli Lilly). In people without diabetes insulin and amylin are co-secreted by pancreatic beta cells and act in synergy to control blood glucose. While insulin controls glucose disposal, amylin modulates glucose appearance in the blood by suppressing liver glycogenolysis through glucagon inhibition and by controlling gastric emptying and decreases food intake by inducing a feeling of satiety. As diabetes progresses, neither insulin nor amylin are eventually secreted. While life-saving for people with type 1 diabetes and ultimately required for people with type 2 diabetes, insulin therapy alone is often not sufficient to achieve optimal prandial control, possibly because amylin is also needed. Many people using insulin therapy exhibit profound glycemic variability, especially after a meal, and they frequently fail to reach their treatment goals.
Pramlintide (Symlin, AstraZeneca), a short-acting amylin analog, is the only molecule in this class approved by FDA for the treatment of diabetes. Pramlintide is approved in the USA for both type 1 and type 2 diabetes as an adjunct therapy to insulin treatment. The Phase 3 trials leading to pramlintide approval showed that, when added to an existing insulin regimen, pramlintide strongly improves post-prandial glucose control by flattening postprandial glucose excursions. After 6 months of use, pramlintide as an adjunct to insulin therapy, resulted in improved HbA1c, reduced prandial insulin consumption and induced weight loss compared to the use of insulin alone in both people with type 1 and with type 2 diabetes. Like amylin, pramlintide delays the timing and reduces the amount of postprandial blood glucose. Some studies suggest that, because of the resulting delay in glucose appearance, human insulin’s slow action profile makes it the most suited agent to combine with pramlintide in order to enable an optimal reduction of postprandial glucose excursion.
However, as intensified insulin therapy requires multiple daily injections and frequent glucose monitoring, the addition of three injections of pramlintide a day has proved a challenge to patient adherence, compliance and persistency. Indeed, to achieve optimal long-term effects, new treatment options in diabetes should not only demonstrate superior efficacy, but also avoid increasing the everyday burden of disease management, while remaining affordable. This should be achieved with this novel combination product, BioChaperone Pramlintide Insulin.
Adocia is a clinical-stage biotechnology company that specializes in the development of innovative formulations of already-approved therapeutic proteins and peptides.
Adocia , a biopharma company, announced the initiation of a phase 1 study of BioChaperone Pramlintide Insulin (BC Pram Ins), its ready-to-use co-formulation of pramlintide and human insulin. The BioChaperone proprietary technology enables the solubilization and stabilization, in aqueous solution at neutral pH, of pramlintide, the only FDA-approved amylin analog for the treatment of diabetes, hence allowing its combination with insulin.
This study aims to investigate the pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and the safety and tolerability of BC Pram Ins in people with type 1 diabetes compared to separate injections of human insulin (Humulin, Eli Lilly) and pramlintide (Symlin, AstraZeneca), and also to an injection of insulin lispro (Humalog, Eli Lilly). In people without diabetes insulin and amylin are co-secreted by pancreatic beta cells and act in synergy to control blood glucose. While insulin controls glucose disposal, amylin modulates glucose appearance in the blood by suppressing liver glycogenolysis through glucagon inhibition and by controlling gastric emptying and decreases food intake by inducing a feeling of satiety. As diabetes progresses, neither insulin nor amylin are eventually secreted. While life-saving for people with type 1 diabetes and ultimately required for people with type 2 diabetes, insulin therapy alone is often not sufficient to achieve optimal prandial control, possibly because amylin is also needed. Many people using insulin therapy exhibit profound glycemic variability, especially after a meal, and they frequently fail to reach their treatment goals.
Pramlintide (Symlin, AstraZeneca), a short-acting amylin analog, is the only molecule in this class approved by FDA for the treatment of diabetes. Pramlintide is approved in the USA for both type 1 and type 2 diabetes as an adjunct therapy to insulin treatment. The Phase 3 trials leading to pramlintide approval showed that, when added to an existing insulin regimen, pramlintide strongly improves post-prandial glucose control by flattening postprandial glucose excursions. After 6 months of use, pramlintide as an adjunct to insulin therapy, resulted in improved HbA1c, reduced prandial insulin consumption and induced weight loss compared to the use of insulin alone in both people with type 1 and with type 2 diabetes. Like amylin, pramlintide delays the timing and reduces the amount of postprandial blood glucose. Some studies suggest that, because of the resulting delay in glucose appearance, human insulin’s slow action profile makes it the most suited agent to combine with pramlintide in order to enable an optimal reduction of postprandial glucose excursion.
However, as intensified insulin therapy requires multiple daily injections and frequent glucose monitoring, the addition of three injections of pramlintide a day has proved a challenge to patient adherence, compliance and persistency. Indeed, to achieve optimal long-term effects, new treatment options in diabetes should not only demonstrate superior efficacy, but also avoid increasing the everyday burden of disease management, while remaining affordable. This should be achieved with this novel combination product, BioChaperone Pramlintide Insulin.
Adocia is a clinical-stage biotechnology company that specializes in the development of innovative formulations of already-approved therapeutic proteins and peptides.
Glenmark initiates phase 2b trial to treat atopic
dermatitis
Glenmark Pharmaceuticals, a global pharmaceutical company, announced the initiation of a phase 2b clinical trial of GBR 830, a novel, investigational treatment for moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis. The trial’s primary endpoint will assess the efficacy of GBR 830, compared to placebo. Secondary and exploratory trial endpoints include additional measures of efficacy, safety and pharmacodynamics. Trial enrollment is expected to begin in June 2018.
The phase 2b, double-blind, placebo-controlled multicenter trial will randomize approximately 392 patients across four dosing arms of GBR 830 and placebo. The trial’s primary endpoint will assess the effectiveness of GBR 830, compared to placebo, on reducing the severity of atopic dermatitis as measured by Investigator’s Global Assessment (IGA).
Secondary efficacy measures include patients with a greater than 75 percent improvement in disease severity, as measured by the Eczema Area and Severity Index (EASI), along with other measures including disease activity using validated assessment tools such as EASI response, and Scoring Atopic Dermatitis (SCORAD). The trial will also assess safety, and biomarkers relevant to the disease and unique mechanism of GBR 830.
In addition to moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis, Glenmark is evaluating the potential for conducting studies with GBR 830 for the treatment of other inflammatory autoimmune conditions where dysregulation of OX40 overexpression is implicated in disease activity. Preparations for a clinical trial assessing GBR 830 for the treatment of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) are currently underway.
GBR 830 is designed to inhibit OX40, a costimulatory immune checkpoint receptor expressed on activated T cells and memory T cells. Costimulatory signals are essential for T cell activity, and binding between OX40 and OX40L is a biomarker for the severity of autoimmune diseases. The activation of this pathway leads to conversion of activated T cells into memory T cells, which promotes inflammation . In addition, regulatory T cells also contribute to inflammation, and OX40 signalling by these cells downregulates immune suppressing functions. It is believed that GBR 830 inhibits the dual activities of OX40 and OX40L binding in both activated T cells and regulatory T cells, thus potentially reducing inflammation associated with symptoms of atopic dermatitis.
Glenmark Pharmaceuticals, a global pharmaceutical company, announced the initiation of a phase 2b clinical trial of GBR 830, a novel, investigational treatment for moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis. The trial’s primary endpoint will assess the efficacy of GBR 830, compared to placebo. Secondary and exploratory trial endpoints include additional measures of efficacy, safety and pharmacodynamics. Trial enrollment is expected to begin in June 2018.
The phase 2b, double-blind, placebo-controlled multicenter trial will randomize approximately 392 patients across four dosing arms of GBR 830 and placebo. The trial’s primary endpoint will assess the effectiveness of GBR 830, compared to placebo, on reducing the severity of atopic dermatitis as measured by Investigator’s Global Assessment (IGA).
Secondary efficacy measures include patients with a greater than 75 percent improvement in disease severity, as measured by the Eczema Area and Severity Index (EASI), along with other measures including disease activity using validated assessment tools such as EASI response, and Scoring Atopic Dermatitis (SCORAD). The trial will also assess safety, and biomarkers relevant to the disease and unique mechanism of GBR 830.
In addition to moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis, Glenmark is evaluating the potential for conducting studies with GBR 830 for the treatment of other inflammatory autoimmune conditions where dysregulation of OX40 overexpression is implicated in disease activity. Preparations for a clinical trial assessing GBR 830 for the treatment of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) are currently underway.
GBR 830 is designed to inhibit OX40, a costimulatory immune checkpoint receptor expressed on activated T cells and memory T cells. Costimulatory signals are essential for T cell activity, and binding between OX40 and OX40L is a biomarker for the severity of autoimmune diseases. The activation of this pathway leads to conversion of activated T cells into memory T cells, which promotes inflammation . In addition, regulatory T cells also contribute to inflammation, and OX40 signalling by these cells downregulates immune suppressing functions. It is believed that GBR 830 inhibits the dual activities of OX40 and OX40L binding in both activated T cells and regulatory T cells, thus potentially reducing inflammation associated with symptoms of atopic dermatitis.
CPhI & P-MEC China 2018: Build lucrative pharma
business partnerships in China
Are you looking for new business partners, extendingyour distributor network or sourcing specific products on the Chinese pharma market?
We can support you on this! The upcoming CPhI & P-MEC China, taking place on 20 - 22 June 2018 in Shanghai, China, will gather 3,000+ exhibitors, providing you with solutions covering the needs of the entire pharmaceutical supply chain, including pharmaceutical ingredients, the growing biopharmaceutical industry, laboratory equipment, pharma packaging, machinery, logistics, environmental protection and clean room solutions.
What’s new?
PharmaExcipients zone: Asia’s premium event dedicated to pharmaceutical
excipients!
Driven by the development of drugs and the different materials used in the market, the excipients industry is growing rapidly, and the growing generic drug market is increasing the demand of medicinal materials in China as well. This year at PharmaExcipients China, you can meet numerous Chinese pharma companies specialized in high-end excipients.Come onsite, meet them and expand your network!
Animal Health & Feed:a unique opportunity to source from over 100
suppliers.
Home to the world's largest livestock industry, China has been the object of much fascination among global animal health companies. This new launch in 2018 will gather more than 100 manufacturers of veterinary drugs and feed from China and overseas. This is your one-stop platform for the veterinary industry.
Join the 2nd edition of CPhI China Pharma week!
Similar to last year, China Pharma Weekwill take place alongside CPhI & P-MEC China on19 - 23 June 2018focusing on Leadership, Business, Networking, Innovation, Recognition and Knowledge. Activities includea Cocktail & Dinner Reception at the Bund, plant visits giving a deeper work floor insight and dedicatedindustry conferences on different sectors to name a few.
Take part in on-site conferences and forums targeting various pharma sub-sections!
Mark the dates in your agenda!
Join us at Shanghai’s New International Expo Centre (SNIEC):
With the opportunity to receive your personal visitor badgeright after completing your registration.
Get your free access now!
For more information, visit our website at www.cphi-china.cn/en or contact Ms. Tina Zheng at Tina.Zheng@ubmsinoexpo.com
Are you looking for new business partners, extendingyour distributor network or sourcing specific products on the Chinese pharma market?
We can support you on this! The upcoming CPhI & P-MEC China, taking place on 20 - 22 June 2018 in Shanghai, China, will gather 3,000+ exhibitors, providing you with solutions covering the needs of the entire pharmaceutical supply chain, including pharmaceutical ingredients, the growing biopharmaceutical industry, laboratory equipment, pharma packaging, machinery, logistics, environmental protection and clean room solutions.
What’s new?
Driven by the development of drugs and the different materials used in the market, the excipients industry is growing rapidly, and the growing generic drug market is increasing the demand of medicinal materials in China as well. This year at PharmaExcipients China, you can meet numerous Chinese pharma companies specialized in high-end excipients.Come onsite, meet them and expand your network!
Home to the world's largest livestock industry, China has been the object of much fascination among global animal health companies. This new launch in 2018 will gather more than 100 manufacturers of veterinary drugs and feed from China and overseas. This is your one-stop platform for the veterinary industry.
Join the 2nd edition of CPhI China Pharma week!
Similar to last year, China Pharma Weekwill take place alongside CPhI & P-MEC China on19 - 23 June 2018focusing on Leadership, Business, Networking, Innovation, Recognition and Knowledge. Activities includea Cocktail & Dinner Reception at the Bund, plant visits giving a deeper work floor insight and dedicatedindustry conferences on different sectors to name a few.
Take part in on-site conferences and forums targeting various pharma sub-sections!
Mark the dates in your agenda!
Join us at Shanghai’s New International Expo Centre (SNIEC):
- CPhI & P-MEC China: 20 – 22 June 2018
- China Pharma week: 19 – 23 June 2018
With the opportunity to receive your personal visitor badgeright after completing your registration.
Get your free access now!
For more information, visit our website at www.cphi-china.cn/en or contact Ms. Tina Zheng at Tina.Zheng@ubmsinoexpo.com
Eli Lilly Appoints Luca Visini MD for
its Operations in India
Multinational biopharmaceutical leader, Eli Lilly and Company, announced earlier this year the appointment of Luca Visini as Managing Director of its Indian subsidiary, Eli Lilly and Company (India) Pvt. Ltd, effective February 1, 2018. Visini replaces Edgard Olaizola, who headed Lilly India operations from September 2013 to January 2018 and will now be moving internally to a new role.
Visini joined Lilly in 2004 and held several strategic leadership roles in various functional departments out of Lilly headquarters in Indianapolis, the USA and Europe. From 2011 to 2014 he was the country manager for Lilly Romania. He is taking this executive role endowed with a diverse and solid management experience at Lilly.
Visini is a native of Italy, and an alumnus of SDA Bocconi School of Management and Università degli Studi di Bergamo in Italy.
Multinational biopharmaceutical leader, Eli Lilly and Company, announced earlier this year the appointment of Luca Visini as Managing Director of its Indian subsidiary, Eli Lilly and Company (India) Pvt. Ltd, effective February 1, 2018. Visini replaces Edgard Olaizola, who headed Lilly India operations from September 2013 to January 2018 and will now be moving internally to a new role.
Visini joined Lilly in 2004 and held several strategic leadership roles in various functional departments out of Lilly headquarters in Indianapolis, the USA and Europe. From 2011 to 2014 he was the country manager for Lilly Romania. He is taking this executive role endowed with a diverse and solid management experience at Lilly.
Visini is a native of Italy, and an alumnus of SDA Bocconi School of Management and Università degli Studi di Bergamo in Italy.
Premas Life Sciences, IncellDx Sign
Distribution Deal
Premas Life Sciences Pvt, Ltd and IncellDx, Inc have signed an exclusive distribution agreement. The commercial partnership brings the power of cell by cell multiplex diagnostics for solid tumors carcinomas that can now be analyzed for molecular and protein biomarkers by flow cytometry. Included in the deal are: IncellDx’s patented single-cell assays for quantifying PDL1 on tumor cells and immune cell subtypes; patented singlecell assay for HPV E6/E7 mRNA detection in cervical samples; and, its incellPREP single-cell preparation kit for solid tissues including tumors.
Researchers at AIIMS, New Delhi have completed a successful study utilizing IncellDx’s next generation (3Dx) investigational molecular assay which quantifies E6, E7 mRNA overexpression in single cells simultaneously with the measurement of cell cycle and cell proliferation, the hallmark of progressive disease.
IncellDx is a molecular diagnostics company dedicated to revolutionizing healthcare one cell at a time. By combining molecular diagnostics with high throughput cellular analysis, the company’s focus is on critical life threatening diseases in the areas of cancer, specifically lung, cervical, head and neck, bladder, cancers.
Premas Life Sciences Pvt, Ltd and IncellDx, Inc have signed an exclusive distribution agreement. The commercial partnership brings the power of cell by cell multiplex diagnostics for solid tumors carcinomas that can now be analyzed for molecular and protein biomarkers by flow cytometry. Included in the deal are: IncellDx’s patented single-cell assays for quantifying PDL1 on tumor cells and immune cell subtypes; patented singlecell assay for HPV E6/E7 mRNA detection in cervical samples; and, its incellPREP single-cell preparation kit for solid tissues including tumors.
Researchers at AIIMS, New Delhi have completed a successful study utilizing IncellDx’s next generation (3Dx) investigational molecular assay which quantifies E6, E7 mRNA overexpression in single cells simultaneously with the measurement of cell cycle and cell proliferation, the hallmark of progressive disease.
IncellDx is a molecular diagnostics company dedicated to revolutionizing healthcare one cell at a time. By combining molecular diagnostics with high throughput cellular analysis, the company’s focus is on critical life threatening diseases in the areas of cancer, specifically lung, cervical, head and neck, bladder, cancers.
IPA Conducts Training Sessions at IPC
The National Coordination Center (NCC) for Pharmacovigilance Programme of India (PvPI), Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission (IPC) under the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Government of India, Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh (U.P.) organized Skill Development Programme (SDP) on “Basics and Regulatory Aspects of Pharmacovigilance – Optimising Medicine Safety is our Goal” from January 15-24, 2018 at Conference Hall of IPC, Ghaziabad. The Pharmacovigilance (PV) programme is conducted every year to accomplish SDP in the country under the government’s ambitious Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana. The objective of the workshop was to enhance the knowledge and skill of qualified PV professionals to ensure better patient safety as per the requirement of Schedule Y of Drugs & Cosmetics Act, 1940 and to enhance career prospects & employment opportunities in PV in government as well as in private sector. The target group for the programme was young pharma / medical / paramedical professionals seeking career in PV and existing professionals in PV. Faculties drawn for the programme were renowned experts from government teaching & corporate hospitals, regulatory authority, WHO, pharmaceutical industry, academia and research institutions
The National Coordination Center (NCC) for Pharmacovigilance Programme of India (PvPI), Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission (IPC) under the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Government of India, Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh (U.P.) organized Skill Development Programme (SDP) on “Basics and Regulatory Aspects of Pharmacovigilance – Optimising Medicine Safety is our Goal” from January 15-24, 2018 at Conference Hall of IPC, Ghaziabad. The Pharmacovigilance (PV) programme is conducted every year to accomplish SDP in the country under the government’s ambitious Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana. The objective of the workshop was to enhance the knowledge and skill of qualified PV professionals to ensure better patient safety as per the requirement of Schedule Y of Drugs & Cosmetics Act, 1940 and to enhance career prospects & employment opportunities in PV in government as well as in private sector. The target group for the programme was young pharma / medical / paramedical professionals seeking career in PV and existing professionals in PV. Faculties drawn for the programme were renowned experts from government teaching & corporate hospitals, regulatory authority, WHO, pharmaceutical industry, academia and research institutions
LifeCell Initiates Development of Large
Scale Manufacturing of MSCs
LifeCell, India’s first & largest stem cell bank in the country, a pioneer in stem cell research has embarked on a journey to develop large scale manufacturing of Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSCs).
Mesenchymal Stem Cells are one type of master stem cells that have the potential to form bone, cartilage, muscle and adipose tissues, thereby making them capable of being used in the several therapeutic areas. Importantly these MSC’s can be made available off-the-shelf for immediate treatment as they don’t need donor-recipient matching.
The potential of these MSCs of medical conditions are being checked in 50+ clinical trials around the world, with several companies like TiGenix, Mesoblast, etc., are also receiving market approvals in many countries such as Europe, Canada, Japan, and Australia. Even in India recently, the DCGI provided a limited approval to Stempeutics to market their MSC product for treatment of Critical Limb Ischemia
LifeCell, India’s first & largest stem cell bank in the country, a pioneer in stem cell research has embarked on a journey to develop large scale manufacturing of Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSCs).
Mesenchymal Stem Cells are one type of master stem cells that have the potential to form bone, cartilage, muscle and adipose tissues, thereby making them capable of being used in the several therapeutic areas. Importantly these MSC’s can be made available off-the-shelf for immediate treatment as they don’t need donor-recipient matching.
The potential of these MSCs of medical conditions are being checked in 50+ clinical trials around the world, with several companies like TiGenix, Mesoblast, etc., are also receiving market approvals in many countries such as Europe, Canada, Japan, and Australia. Even in India recently, the DCGI provided a limited approval to Stempeutics to market their MSC product for treatment of Critical Limb Ischemia
Sanofi Launches New Insulin Toujeo
in India
Sanofi India continues to deliver breakthrough medicines for the management of diabetes with the launch of its new product - Toujeo, the next generation basal insulin. Toujeo is a once-daily, long-acting basal analog insulin that improves glycemic control in adults with type 1 and type 2 diabetes.
Low blood sugar, or hypoglycemia is a constant fear amongst people on insulin. Toujeo has demonstrated that it effectively lowers blood glucose, while minimizing the risk of hypoglycemia. It works by slowly releasing small amounts of insulin to provide continuous glucose-lowering activity that lasts beyond 24 hours. With its stable and flat/peak-less action profile, Toujeo reduces glycemic variability, i.e. the daily highs and lows that people with diabetes on insulin may experience.
The product also comes with an impressive MY COACH patient support program (offered free to patients prescribed Toujeo). This patient support program provides six comprehensive months of hand-holding patients through their treatment journey - tips on diet and lifestyle, training on injection techniques, sugar monitoring and more, via a mix of telephonic and in-person sessions. MY COACH will be offered under Sanofi’s Saath-7 initiative, the longest running patient support program in India, which has serviced more than 4,12,000 people with diabetes on insulin till date.
Sanofi India continues to deliver breakthrough medicines for the management of diabetes with the launch of its new product - Toujeo, the next generation basal insulin. Toujeo is a once-daily, long-acting basal analog insulin that improves glycemic control in adults with type 1 and type 2 diabetes.
Low blood sugar, or hypoglycemia is a constant fear amongst people on insulin. Toujeo has demonstrated that it effectively lowers blood glucose, while minimizing the risk of hypoglycemia. It works by slowly releasing small amounts of insulin to provide continuous glucose-lowering activity that lasts beyond 24 hours. With its stable and flat/peak-less action profile, Toujeo reduces glycemic variability, i.e. the daily highs and lows that people with diabetes on insulin may experience.
The product also comes with an impressive MY COACH patient support program (offered free to patients prescribed Toujeo). This patient support program provides six comprehensive months of hand-holding patients through their treatment journey - tips on diet and lifestyle, training on injection techniques, sugar monitoring and more, via a mix of telephonic and in-person sessions. MY COACH will be offered under Sanofi’s Saath-7 initiative, the longest running patient support program in India, which has serviced more than 4,12,000 people with diabetes on insulin till date.
Lupin Forays into OTC Segment with Softovac
Pharma major Lupin Limited (Lupin) has made a foray into the over-the-counter (OTC) segment under the ‘Lupin Life Consumer Healthcare’ umbrella with the pan-India launch of Softovac. A 34-year old legacy brand, Softovac has been trusted by millions of consumers who suffer from constipation and irregular bowel habits.
Pegged at over USD 2.7 billion (INR 18862 crores) as on 2016 as per Nicholas Hall 2017 report , the Indian OTC market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 9 percent to cross the USD 6.5 billion (INR 44115 crores) mark by 2026. Softovac’s shift to OTC was piloted in West Bengal during which the brand witnessed a growth in sales of over 25 percent, and post the success of the pilot, a pan-India roll-out was initiated.
Softovac is a bowel regulator made with 100 percent natural actives like Isabgol, Sonamukhi, Harad, Mulethi, Gulab dal (ingredient), Amaltas, and Saunf, all of which are time-tested ingredients known to provide effective relief from constipation and irregular bowel habits.
Pharma major Lupin Limited (Lupin) has made a foray into the over-the-counter (OTC) segment under the ‘Lupin Life Consumer Healthcare’ umbrella with the pan-India launch of Softovac. A 34-year old legacy brand, Softovac has been trusted by millions of consumers who suffer from constipation and irregular bowel habits.
Pegged at over USD 2.7 billion (INR 18862 crores) as on 2016 as per Nicholas Hall 2017 report , the Indian OTC market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 9 percent to cross the USD 6.5 billion (INR 44115 crores) mark by 2026. Softovac’s shift to OTC was piloted in West Bengal during which the brand witnessed a growth in sales of over 25 percent, and post the success of the pilot, a pan-India roll-out was initiated.
Softovac is a bowel regulator made with 100 percent natural actives like Isabgol, Sonamukhi, Harad, Mulethi, Gulab dal (ingredient), Amaltas, and Saunf, all of which are time-tested ingredients known to provide effective relief from constipation and irregular bowel habits.
Historic Deal Signed Between Panacea Biotec & Serum Institute of India
Panacea Biotec Ltd. (PBL) is delighted to announce the collaboration with signing of two long term agreements with Serum Institute of India Pvt. Ltd. (SII) and SII’s wholly owned subsidiary, Bilthovan Biologicals B.V. (BBIO). Under the collaboration SII is entitled to manufacture & sell fully liquid Whole cell Pertussis (wP) and Salk based Injectable Polio Vaccine (IPV) based Hexavalent vaccine (DTwP-HepB-Hib- IPV) developed & commercialized by Panacea Biotec, a first of its kind in this category.
WHO prequalified IPV is essential to successfully eradicating Polio across the globe, an effort that has already cost USD 20 Billion worldwide. There is a Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI) in place & Global Alliance for Vaccine Initiative (GAVI) has been supporting the program since 2013 having allocated USD 430 Million till 2018 with an additional donor pledge of USD 23 Million for 2019. At present GAVI is evaluating IPV under Vaccine Investment Strategy for Global Public Good.
Global demand of IPV/ IPV containing vaccines is estimated to rise significantly from ~100 Million in the year 2020 till supply constraints remain, to 250-350 Million doses every year starting 2022 depending upon a two or three dose schedule as Strategic Advisory Group of Experts (SAGE) on Immunization in April 2017 has recommended at least 2 doses of IPV in the routine Immunization schedule of the countries post OPV Lupin Forays into OTC Segment with withdrawal.
Panacea Biotec Ltd. (PBL) is delighted to announce the collaboration with signing of two long term agreements with Serum Institute of India Pvt. Ltd. (SII) and SII’s wholly owned subsidiary, Bilthovan Biologicals B.V. (BBIO). Under the collaboration SII is entitled to manufacture & sell fully liquid Whole cell Pertussis (wP) and Salk based Injectable Polio Vaccine (IPV) based Hexavalent vaccine (DTwP-HepB-Hib- IPV) developed & commercialized by Panacea Biotec, a first of its kind in this category.
WHO prequalified IPV is essential to successfully eradicating Polio across the globe, an effort that has already cost USD 20 Billion worldwide. There is a Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI) in place & Global Alliance for Vaccine Initiative (GAVI) has been supporting the program since 2013 having allocated USD 430 Million till 2018 with an additional donor pledge of USD 23 Million for 2019. At present GAVI is evaluating IPV under Vaccine Investment Strategy for Global Public Good.
Global demand of IPV/ IPV containing vaccines is estimated to rise significantly from ~100 Million in the year 2020 till supply constraints remain, to 250-350 Million doses every year starting 2022 depending upon a two or three dose schedule as Strategic Advisory Group of Experts (SAGE) on Immunization in April 2017 has recommended at least 2 doses of IPV in the routine Immunization schedule of the countries post OPV Lupin Forays into OTC Segment with withdrawal.
Dr. Reddy's Launches Tetrabenazine Tablets in the US Market
Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories Ltd has launched Tetrabenazine Tablets, a therapeutic equivalent generic version of Xenazine (tetrabenazine) in the United States market approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (USFDA).
The Xenazine brand and generic had US sales of approximately USD 322 million MAT for the most recent twelve months ending in November 2017 according to IMS Health.
Dr. Reddy’s Tetrabenazine Tablets are available in strengths of 12.5 mg and 25 mg, each strength is available in a bottle count size of 112.
Xenazine is a registered trademark of Valeant Pharmaceuticals Luxembourg S.A.R.L.
Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories Ltd has launched Tetrabenazine Tablets, a therapeutic equivalent generic version of Xenazine (tetrabenazine) in the United States market approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (USFDA).
The Xenazine brand and generic had US sales of approximately USD 322 million MAT for the most recent twelve months ending in November 2017 according to IMS Health.
Dr. Reddy’s Tetrabenazine Tablets are available in strengths of 12.5 mg and 25 mg, each strength is available in a bottle count size of 112.
Xenazine is a registered trademark of Valeant Pharmaceuticals Luxembourg S.A.R.L.
Breakthrough Study Reveals a New Monogenic Form of Diabetes in India
A breakthrough study on Maturity Onset Diabetes of the Young (MODY) was published in ‘BMC Medical Genetics’ journal by Dr. V. Mohan and Dr. RadhaVenkatesan from Madras Diabetes Research Foundation (MDRF), Chennai, in collaboration with Dr. Andrew S. Peterson, Dr. Somasekar Seshagiri and Dr. Thong T. Nguyen from Genentech, California, and Dr. Ramprasad and Sam Santhosh at MedGenome, India.
The usual forms of diabetes are type 2 Diabetes, (which comprises 90 - 95% of all forms of diabetes) and type 1 diabetes. Type 2 Diabetes normally affects adults, and does not require insulin for control of hyperglycemia except in the more advanced stages. Type 1 diabetes, usually affects children and in this type of diabetes there is complete insulin deficiency and hence they require lifelong insulin injections, several times a day. However, there are many other forms of diabetes which are increasingly being recognized nowadays.
There is a genetic form of diabetes due to a single gene defect and hence these are called as ‘Monogenic Diabetes’. The commonest form of monogenic diabetes is ”Maturity Onset Diabetes of the Young (MODY)” which like type 1 Diabetes also affects young people or children. Patients with MODY are usually lean and because of their young age, they are often wrongly labeled as having type 1 diabetes and advised to have lifelong insulin injections. MODY can only be diagnosed by doing ‘genetic testing’. Further, it is now known that there are 14 different forms of MODY, each with its own unique clinical characteristics. While there have been a few scattered studies on different forms of MODY in India, this was the most comprehensive and largest study of all forms of MODY done in India.
GNH India Clears Oman Pharmacy and Poison Board Audit
GNH India, a global source for priority pharmaceuticals has cleared an audit conducted by the Muscat Pharmacy and Poisons board to export pharmaceuticals and priority medications into the Gulf state of Oman. This milestone is yet another in GNH – India’s march towards becoming the premier global distributor for priority pharmaceuticals and medications. Earlier GNH India had cleared and audits to trade orphan drugs with the UK and had become the first Indian company to clear the Kenyan Pharmacy and Poisons Board audit as well. It has also become the first pharma distributor to clear the Muscat Pharmacy and Poisons Board audit, which functions under Oman health ministry.
In 2010, India ranked fifth largest source of imports into Oman after the UAE, Japan, United States and China. The audit will not only give preferential status to GNH India in the Oman trade market over other suppliers from countries including USA and EU but will also lead the company to become a key player in contributing towards the growth of Indian’s pharma export share to Oman which in 2016 stands at 39.07%.
On January 25th, two delegates from Oman Health Ministry visited GNH India’s warehouse in Prabhadevi, Mumbai to audit the company and to inspect its GDP standard. After receiving a positive response from the auditors, GNH India immediately lined up the export of scheduled drugs to Oman and is looking to establish long lasting business relations with the country. GNH India has been trading with Oman for past eight years, leading as largest pharma suppliers to the market for life-saving and orphan drugs.
Brinton Pharmaceuticals wins Three Accolades at Pharma Excellence Award 2018
Brinton Pharmaceuticals, India’s fastest growing multinational pharmaceuticals company, won three accolades at Pharma Excellence Awards 2018, reinforcing its fast pacing growth in the Pharma Industry. Brinton Pharmaceuticals was awarded as the ‘Most Admired Pharma Company’ and was also adjudged as ‘The Emerging Pharma company of the Year’. Also, Mr. Rahul Darda, Chairman & Managing Director was awarded as ‘Business Leader’ of the Year’.
Brinton Pharmaceuticals Ltd started its India operations in September 2014 and within a year of its inception became the fastest growing pharmaceutical company in the domain of Dermatology in India. Brinton Paediatric division markets products ranging from paediatric nutrition, respiratory and other therapy areas and are already available in the market. Brinton is currently pursuing a strong R & D to bring more innovative products like paediatric nutrition, probiotics, Juvenile diabetes, paediatric cardiology and many more.
Indian Pharmacological Society Concludes Golden Jubilee Celebrations at Annual Conference IPSCON 2017
Golden Jubilee Concluding Celebrations of Indian Pharmacological Society and Annual Conference of Indian Pharmacological Society (IPSCON - 2017) was organised in collaboration with NMIMS ShobhabenPratapbhai Patel School of Pharmacy & Technology Management (SPPSPTM), in Mumbai on 15-17 February, 2018. The theme of the conference was “Integrating Pharmacology with Modern Healthcare". The three-day conference was enriched with various scientific sessions that extensively covered vital current issues.
Chief Guest of the ceremony Padmashri Dr. Shashank Joshi, Endocrinologist stressed that modern research should be integrated with traditional system of medicine. While lauding the efforts of Japanese, Chinese and Korean researchers, Dr Joshi directed a question to the audience asking “why can't we (Indians) have largest research output?”
Dr. Joshi made a special mention of NMIMS while congratulating the University on winning two global patents. He also appreciated the organisers as the conference saw large number of participants in his keynote address.
Chairman of IPSCON 2017 Local Organizing Committee, Dr. R. S. Gaud, Director, NMIMS Mukesh Patel Technology Park, Shirpur& SVKM’s Pharma Institutions, while welcoming the delegates and dignitaries, presented an overview of NMIMS as an educational institution. He stressed on the need for introduction of more paramedical courses and more jobs in pharmacovigilance.
Mylan Launches Saugella in India
Mylan Pharmaceuticals Private Limited announced the launch of SAUGELLA Dermoliquido, suitable for use for daily intimate hygiene use, and SAUGELLA Attiva, designed for expecting mothers, new mothers, women athletes, and for protection from infection during menstruation.
India's first ‘natural’ feminine intimate hygiene product, SAUGELLA intimate hygiene wash is pH-balanced, 100% free of preservatives used in cosmetic/pharmaceutical products[ii], and is tested by gynecologists[ii].SAUGELLA is based on natural plants extracts with pharmacological properties. It is a mild, water-based solution that addresses the intimate personal care needs of women while ensuring safety and respecting the physiological vaginal environment for all ages.
SAUGELLA contains natural plant extracts, which have proven antifungal and antibacterial action that allow it to gently deodorize the area of application and provide a balanced solution that caters to every skin type. This gentle formula is designed to maintain hygiene, comfort and intimate balance, while preventing skin irritation and making women less susceptible to infections caused by natural changes in vaginal pH.
Roche Pharma India Partners with Cipla
Roche Pharma India and Cipla announced that the two companies have entered into an agreement under which Cipla will promote and distribute tocilizumab (Actemra) and Syndyma, the 2nd brand of Roche’s cancer therapy, bevacizumab (Avastin) in India. This partnership is in line with Roche and Cipla’s efforts to improve healthcare and increase access to innovative, life-changing medicines in India, particularly to patients who currently do not have access to them.
Lara Bezerra, Managing Director – Roche Pharma India said: “At Roche, improving access to the critical medicines that patients need is an integral part of what we do. We believe that everyone who needs our medicines should be able to access and benefit from them. This partnership will significantly advance our efforts to expand the reach of, and improve access to, our innovative medicines. This will also enable us at Roche to focus on bringing new, transformative medicines to patients in India. As Roche, we will continue to collaborate with various stakeholders to help transform healthcare in India.”
WHO Approves Cholera Vaccine from ShanthaBiotechnics
Sanofi Pasteur, the vaccines division of Sanofi, is proud to announce that its affiliate ShanthaBiotechnics has received approval from the World Health Organisation (WHO) for Shanchol, its oral cholera vaccine, that the vaccine may be kept for single period of time of up to 14 days at temperature of up to 40°C immediately prior to administration, provided the vaccine has not reached its expiry date and vaccine vial monitor has not reached discard point. The approval is of great significance to regions where the vaccine is used, including India, as it eliminates the challenges of maintaining the vaccine cold chain (between +2°C and +8°C to maintain vaccine potency) during transport.
The WHO approval for use of Shanchol in controlled temperature chain (CTC) was granted after a review of its stability data. Used for prevention and control of cholera in outbreak, endemic settings during humanitarian crises, ShanthaBiotechnics’ Shanchol™ cholera vaccine is the second “mass campaign” vaccine and first cholera vaccine worldwide to receive such a stamp of approval for storage and distribution outside the traditional cold chain.
Since WHO pre-qualification in 2011, 12 million doses of Shanchol vaccine have been shipped to 25 countries across the world, including Democratic Republic of the Congo, Haiti, Mozambique and South Sudan. The largest ever shipment ofShanchol vaccine took place in September 2017 when ShanthaBiotechnics responded to an urgent call for humanitarian help from international agencies and sent 900,000 doses to Nigeria to respond to a cholera epidemic in the country.
A breakthrough study on Maturity Onset Diabetes of the Young (MODY) was published in ‘BMC Medical Genetics’ journal by Dr. V. Mohan and Dr. RadhaVenkatesan from Madras Diabetes Research Foundation (MDRF), Chennai, in collaboration with Dr. Andrew S. Peterson, Dr. Somasekar Seshagiri and Dr. Thong T. Nguyen from Genentech, California, and Dr. Ramprasad and Sam Santhosh at MedGenome, India.
The usual forms of diabetes are type 2 Diabetes, (which comprises 90 - 95% of all forms of diabetes) and type 1 diabetes. Type 2 Diabetes normally affects adults, and does not require insulin for control of hyperglycemia except in the more advanced stages. Type 1 diabetes, usually affects children and in this type of diabetes there is complete insulin deficiency and hence they require lifelong insulin injections, several times a day. However, there are many other forms of diabetes which are increasingly being recognized nowadays.
There is a genetic form of diabetes due to a single gene defect and hence these are called as ‘Monogenic Diabetes’. The commonest form of monogenic diabetes is ”Maturity Onset Diabetes of the Young (MODY)” which like type 1 Diabetes also affects young people or children. Patients with MODY are usually lean and because of their young age, they are often wrongly labeled as having type 1 diabetes and advised to have lifelong insulin injections. MODY can only be diagnosed by doing ‘genetic testing’. Further, it is now known that there are 14 different forms of MODY, each with its own unique clinical characteristics. While there have been a few scattered studies on different forms of MODY in India, this was the most comprehensive and largest study of all forms of MODY done in India.
GNH India Clears Oman Pharmacy and Poison Board Audit
GNH India, a global source for priority pharmaceuticals has cleared an audit conducted by the Muscat Pharmacy and Poisons board to export pharmaceuticals and priority medications into the Gulf state of Oman. This milestone is yet another in GNH – India’s march towards becoming the premier global distributor for priority pharmaceuticals and medications. Earlier GNH India had cleared and audits to trade orphan drugs with the UK and had become the first Indian company to clear the Kenyan Pharmacy and Poisons Board audit as well. It has also become the first pharma distributor to clear the Muscat Pharmacy and Poisons Board audit, which functions under Oman health ministry.
In 2010, India ranked fifth largest source of imports into Oman after the UAE, Japan, United States and China. The audit will not only give preferential status to GNH India in the Oman trade market over other suppliers from countries including USA and EU but will also lead the company to become a key player in contributing towards the growth of Indian’s pharma export share to Oman which in 2016 stands at 39.07%.
On January 25th, two delegates from Oman Health Ministry visited GNH India’s warehouse in Prabhadevi, Mumbai to audit the company and to inspect its GDP standard. After receiving a positive response from the auditors, GNH India immediately lined up the export of scheduled drugs to Oman and is looking to establish long lasting business relations with the country. GNH India has been trading with Oman for past eight years, leading as largest pharma suppliers to the market for life-saving and orphan drugs.
Brinton Pharmaceuticals wins Three Accolades at Pharma Excellence Award 2018
Brinton Pharmaceuticals, India’s fastest growing multinational pharmaceuticals company, won three accolades at Pharma Excellence Awards 2018, reinforcing its fast pacing growth in the Pharma Industry. Brinton Pharmaceuticals was awarded as the ‘Most Admired Pharma Company’ and was also adjudged as ‘The Emerging Pharma company of the Year’. Also, Mr. Rahul Darda, Chairman & Managing Director was awarded as ‘Business Leader’ of the Year’.
Brinton Pharmaceuticals Ltd started its India operations in September 2014 and within a year of its inception became the fastest growing pharmaceutical company in the domain of Dermatology in India. Brinton Paediatric division markets products ranging from paediatric nutrition, respiratory and other therapy areas and are already available in the market. Brinton is currently pursuing a strong R & D to bring more innovative products like paediatric nutrition, probiotics, Juvenile diabetes, paediatric cardiology and many more.
Indian Pharmacological Society Concludes Golden Jubilee Celebrations at Annual Conference IPSCON 2017
Golden Jubilee Concluding Celebrations of Indian Pharmacological Society and Annual Conference of Indian Pharmacological Society (IPSCON - 2017) was organised in collaboration with NMIMS ShobhabenPratapbhai Patel School of Pharmacy & Technology Management (SPPSPTM), in Mumbai on 15-17 February, 2018. The theme of the conference was “Integrating Pharmacology with Modern Healthcare". The three-day conference was enriched with various scientific sessions that extensively covered vital current issues.
Chief Guest of the ceremony Padmashri Dr. Shashank Joshi, Endocrinologist stressed that modern research should be integrated with traditional system of medicine. While lauding the efforts of Japanese, Chinese and Korean researchers, Dr Joshi directed a question to the audience asking “why can't we (Indians) have largest research output?”
Dr. Joshi made a special mention of NMIMS while congratulating the University on winning two global patents. He also appreciated the organisers as the conference saw large number of participants in his keynote address.
Chairman of IPSCON 2017 Local Organizing Committee, Dr. R. S. Gaud, Director, NMIMS Mukesh Patel Technology Park, Shirpur& SVKM’s Pharma Institutions, while welcoming the delegates and dignitaries, presented an overview of NMIMS as an educational institution. He stressed on the need for introduction of more paramedical courses and more jobs in pharmacovigilance.
Mylan Launches Saugella in India
Mylan Pharmaceuticals Private Limited announced the launch of SAUGELLA Dermoliquido, suitable for use for daily intimate hygiene use, and SAUGELLA Attiva, designed for expecting mothers, new mothers, women athletes, and for protection from infection during menstruation.
India's first ‘natural’ feminine intimate hygiene product, SAUGELLA intimate hygiene wash is pH-balanced, 100% free of preservatives used in cosmetic/pharmaceutical products[ii], and is tested by gynecologists[ii].SAUGELLA is based on natural plants extracts with pharmacological properties. It is a mild, water-based solution that addresses the intimate personal care needs of women while ensuring safety and respecting the physiological vaginal environment for all ages.
SAUGELLA contains natural plant extracts, which have proven antifungal and antibacterial action that allow it to gently deodorize the area of application and provide a balanced solution that caters to every skin type. This gentle formula is designed to maintain hygiene, comfort and intimate balance, while preventing skin irritation and making women less susceptible to infections caused by natural changes in vaginal pH.
Roche Pharma India Partners with Cipla
Roche Pharma India and Cipla announced that the two companies have entered into an agreement under which Cipla will promote and distribute tocilizumab (Actemra) and Syndyma, the 2nd brand of Roche’s cancer therapy, bevacizumab (Avastin) in India. This partnership is in line with Roche and Cipla’s efforts to improve healthcare and increase access to innovative, life-changing medicines in India, particularly to patients who currently do not have access to them.
Lara Bezerra, Managing Director – Roche Pharma India said: “At Roche, improving access to the critical medicines that patients need is an integral part of what we do. We believe that everyone who needs our medicines should be able to access and benefit from them. This partnership will significantly advance our efforts to expand the reach of, and improve access to, our innovative medicines. This will also enable us at Roche to focus on bringing new, transformative medicines to patients in India. As Roche, we will continue to collaborate with various stakeholders to help transform healthcare in India.”
WHO Approves Cholera Vaccine from ShanthaBiotechnics
Sanofi Pasteur, the vaccines division of Sanofi, is proud to announce that its affiliate ShanthaBiotechnics has received approval from the World Health Organisation (WHO) for Shanchol, its oral cholera vaccine, that the vaccine may be kept for single period of time of up to 14 days at temperature of up to 40°C immediately prior to administration, provided the vaccine has not reached its expiry date and vaccine vial monitor has not reached discard point. The approval is of great significance to regions where the vaccine is used, including India, as it eliminates the challenges of maintaining the vaccine cold chain (between +2°C and +8°C to maintain vaccine potency) during transport.
The WHO approval for use of Shanchol in controlled temperature chain (CTC) was granted after a review of its stability data. Used for prevention and control of cholera in outbreak, endemic settings during humanitarian crises, ShanthaBiotechnics’ Shanchol™ cholera vaccine is the second “mass campaign” vaccine and first cholera vaccine worldwide to receive such a stamp of approval for storage and distribution outside the traditional cold chain.
Since WHO pre-qualification in 2011, 12 million doses of Shanchol vaccine have been shipped to 25 countries across the world, including Democratic Republic of the Congo, Haiti, Mozambique and South Sudan. The largest ever shipment ofShanchol vaccine took place in September 2017 when ShanthaBiotechnics responded to an urgent call for humanitarian help from international agencies and sent 900,000 doses to Nigeria to respond to a cholera epidemic in the country.
GNH India clears Oman Pharmacy and Poison board audit
GNH India, a global source for priority pharmaceuticals has cleared an audit conducted by the Muscat Pharmacy and Poisons board to export pharmaceuticals and priority medications into the Gulf state of Oman. This milestone is yet another in GNH – India’s march towards becoming the premier global distributor for priority pharmaceuticals and medications. Earlier GNH India had cleared and audits to trade orphan drugs with the UK and had become the first Indian company to clear the Kenyan Pharmacy and Poisons Board audit as well. It has also become the first pharma distributor to clear the Muscat Pharmacy and Poisons Board audit, which functions under Oman health ministry.
In 2010, India ranked fifth largest source of imports into Oman after the UAE, Japan, United States and China. The audit will not only give preferential status to GNH India in the Oman trade market over other suppliers from countries including USA and EU but will also lead the company to become a key player in contributing towards the growth of Indian’s pharma export share to Oman which in 2016 stands at 39.07%.
On January 25th, two delegates from Oman Health Ministry visited GNH India’s warehouse in Prabhadevi, Mumbai to audit the company and to inspect its GDP standard. After receiving a positive response from the auditors, GNH India immediately lined up the export of scheduled drugs to Oman and is looking to establish long lasting business relations with the country. GNH India has been trading with Oman for past eight years, leading as largest pharma suppliers to the market for life-saving and orphan drugs.
Commenting on this, Dr. Piyush Gupta, Associate Director, GNH India said, “The visit from the official of the Pharmacy and poison board of Oman authenticates and further validates GNH India as a distributor of priority medicines. There is no stone left unturned to ensure that all the measures taken are compliant with international standards. Getting through this audit has opened a new vista for GNH India and has propelled trade relations with Oman in a great way.”
GNH India exports to more than 180 countries and has 135,000 product lines to choose from which makes this company one of the leading businesses in the $12.5 billion Indian pharmaceutical export industry. It has recently exported a large non- profit shipment to Somalia to aid the people with basic medicines which are lacking in the country.
GNH India, a global source for priority pharmaceuticals has cleared an audit conducted by the Muscat Pharmacy and Poisons board to export pharmaceuticals and priority medications into the Gulf state of Oman. This milestone is yet another in GNH – India’s march towards becoming the premier global distributor for priority pharmaceuticals and medications. Earlier GNH India had cleared and audits to trade orphan drugs with the UK and had become the first Indian company to clear the Kenyan Pharmacy and Poisons Board audit as well. It has also become the first pharma distributor to clear the Muscat Pharmacy and Poisons Board audit, which functions under Oman health ministry.
In 2010, India ranked fifth largest source of imports into Oman after the UAE, Japan, United States and China. The audit will not only give preferential status to GNH India in the Oman trade market over other suppliers from countries including USA and EU but will also lead the company to become a key player in contributing towards the growth of Indian’s pharma export share to Oman which in 2016 stands at 39.07%.
On January 25th, two delegates from Oman Health Ministry visited GNH India’s warehouse in Prabhadevi, Mumbai to audit the company and to inspect its GDP standard. After receiving a positive response from the auditors, GNH India immediately lined up the export of scheduled drugs to Oman and is looking to establish long lasting business relations with the country. GNH India has been trading with Oman for past eight years, leading as largest pharma suppliers to the market for life-saving and orphan drugs.
Commenting on this, Dr. Piyush Gupta, Associate Director, GNH India said, “The visit from the official of the Pharmacy and poison board of Oman authenticates and further validates GNH India as a distributor of priority medicines. There is no stone left unturned to ensure that all the measures taken are compliant with international standards. Getting through this audit has opened a new vista for GNH India and has propelled trade relations with Oman in a great way.”
GNH India exports to more than 180 countries and has 135,000 product lines to choose from which makes this company one of the leading businesses in the $12.5 billion Indian pharmaceutical export industry. It has recently exported a large non- profit shipment to Somalia to aid the people with basic medicines which are lacking in the country.
2018 China International Pharma 4.0 summit will be held on May 17-18 in Shanghai, China
The deep integration of the new generation of information technology and manufacturing industry is triggering a far-reaching industrial change and shaping new production mode, industrial form, business model and economic growth point. Following German Industry 4.0, China has issued its Made in China 2025 strategy in an aim to accelerate the transformation of its manufacturing industry. Based on cyber physical system, intelligent manufacturing including intelligent equipment and plant is leading the change of manufacturing mode. Biomedicine and high performance medical instruments, as one of the key areas of Made in China 2025 initiative, is facing big challenges and opportunities for innovation and development.
Compared with the pharmaceutical industry in Europe and America, there is still a considerable gap to be filled in China. Many problems remain to be addressed including the frequent issuing of policies and regulations, stringent quality requirements, drug price control, optimization and standardization of production process, risk control and looming human resource problems.
Based on the actual situation of pharmaceutical industry in China, the 2018 China International Pharma 4.0 Summit will be held on May 17-18 in Shanghai China. It will bring together over 300 delegates from relevant governments, associations, institutions, pharmaceutical manufacturers, pharmaceutical equipment suppliers, intelligent solution providers of pharmaceutical, packaging, warehouse and logistics, among those the industry regulators, experts and opinion leaders will share the latest policies and regulations, global market trends, technical innovation in the whole chain of drug production, architecture and practice of intelligent pharmaceutical plants as well as advanced technologies such as robotics, AI, informatization, IoT, big data, cloud computing, comparing notes on the transformation and upgrading of pharmaceutical industry.
Sessions & Highlights
1. Policies, regulations and key trends of global pharma industry
The deep integration of the new generation of information technology and manufacturing industry is triggering a far-reaching industrial change and shaping new production mode, industrial form, business model and economic growth point. Following German Industry 4.0, China has issued its Made in China 2025 strategy in an aim to accelerate the transformation of its manufacturing industry. Based on cyber physical system, intelligent manufacturing including intelligent equipment and plant is leading the change of manufacturing mode. Biomedicine and high performance medical instruments, as one of the key areas of Made in China 2025 initiative, is facing big challenges and opportunities for innovation and development.
Compared with the pharmaceutical industry in Europe and America, there is still a considerable gap to be filled in China. Many problems remain to be addressed including the frequent issuing of policies and regulations, stringent quality requirements, drug price control, optimization and standardization of production process, risk control and looming human resource problems.
Based on the actual situation of pharmaceutical industry in China, the 2018 China International Pharma 4.0 Summit will be held on May 17-18 in Shanghai China. It will bring together over 300 delegates from relevant governments, associations, institutions, pharmaceutical manufacturers, pharmaceutical equipment suppliers, intelligent solution providers of pharmaceutical, packaging, warehouse and logistics, among those the industry regulators, experts and opinion leaders will share the latest policies and regulations, global market trends, technical innovation in the whole chain of drug production, architecture and practice of intelligent pharmaceutical plants as well as advanced technologies such as robotics, AI, informatization, IoT, big data, cloud computing, comparing notes on the transformation and upgrading of pharmaceutical industry.
Sessions & Highlights
1. Policies, regulations and key trends of global pharma industry
- The interpretation on the Guidelines for the Development Plan of the Pharmaceutical Industry
- Analysis of current status and pain points of the pharmaceutical industry
- Combining software and hardware organically to realize intelligent manufacturing
- Focus on talent training and achieve human-computer interaction to embrace Industry 5.0
- Added value of the industry brought by continuous manufacturing
- How should the API break up the monopoly and transform toward the preparation?
- Intelligent transformation and green upgrade of TCM industry
- How will AI and robotics reform the traditional pharmaceutical industry?
- The impact of MES on Pharma 4.0 and its application in the operation of pharmaceutical plants
- Key to the intelligent pharmaceutical plants: the seamless integration of ERP and MES
- Changes in the process management modes like drug test, life-cycle quality control and compliance based on IoT
- The practice of data integrity management in pharmaceutical plants
- How can big data and cloud computing help pharmaceutical companies to achieve precision marketing
- Data security and privacy: Pre-interpretation of EU’s General Data Protection Regulations
- The development and application of “smart tag” and RFID technology
- Build a complete supply chain system that features the combination of storage technology and logistics management
Eli Lilly Appoints Luca Visini MD for
its Operations in India
Multinational biopharmaceutical leader, Eli Lilly and Company, announced earlier this year the appointment of Luca Visini as Managing Director of its Indian subsidiary, Eli Lilly and Company (India) Pvt. Ltd, effective February 1, 2018. Visini replaces Edgard Olaizola, who headed Lilly India operations from September 2013 to January 2018 and will now be moving internally to a new role.
Visini joined Lilly in 2004 and held several strategic leadership roles in various functional departments out of Lilly headquarters in Indianapolis, the USA and Europe. From 2011 to 2014 he was the country manager for Lilly Romania. He is taking this executive role endowed with a diverse and solid management experience at Lilly. Visini is a native of Italy, and an alumnus of SDA Bocconi School of Management and Università degli Studi di Bergamo in Italy.
Multinational biopharmaceutical leader, Eli Lilly and Company, announced earlier this year the appointment of Luca Visini as Managing Director of its Indian subsidiary, Eli Lilly and Company (India) Pvt. Ltd, effective February 1, 2018. Visini replaces Edgard Olaizola, who headed Lilly India operations from September 2013 to January 2018 and will now be moving internally to a new role.
Visini joined Lilly in 2004 and held several strategic leadership roles in various functional departments out of Lilly headquarters in Indianapolis, the USA and Europe. From 2011 to 2014 he was the country manager for Lilly Romania. He is taking this executive role endowed with a diverse and solid management experience at Lilly. Visini is a native of Italy, and an alumnus of SDA Bocconi School of Management and Università degli Studi di Bergamo in Italy.
Sanofi Launches New Insulin Toujeo in India
Sanofi India continues to deliver breakthrough medicines for the management of diabetes with the launch of its new product - Toujeo, the next generation basal insulin. Toujeo is a once-daily, long-acting basal analog insulin that improves glycemic control in adults with type 1 and type 2 diabetes.
Low blood sugar, or hypoglycemia is a constant fear amongst people on insulin. Toujeo has demonstrated that it effectively lowers blood glucose, while minimizing the risk of hypoglycemia. It works by slowly releasing small amounts of insulin to provide continuous glucose-lowering activity that lasts beyond 24 hours. With its stable and flat/peak-less action profile, Toujeo reduces glycemic variability, i.e. the daily highs and lows that people with diabetes on insulin may experience.
The product also comes with an impressive MY COACH patient support program (offered free to patients prescribed Toujeo). This patient support program provides six comprehensive months of hand-holding patients through their treatment journey - tips on diet and lifestyle, training on injection techniques, sugar monitoring and more, via a mix of telephonic and in-person sessions. MY COACH will be offered under Sanofi's Saath-7 initiative, the longest running patient support program in India, which has serviced more than 4,12,000 people with diabetes on insulin till date.
Sanofi India continues to deliver breakthrough medicines for the management of diabetes with the launch of its new product - Toujeo, the next generation basal insulin. Toujeo is a once-daily, long-acting basal analog insulin that improves glycemic control in adults with type 1 and type 2 diabetes.
Low blood sugar, or hypoglycemia is a constant fear amongst people on insulin. Toujeo has demonstrated that it effectively lowers blood glucose, while minimizing the risk of hypoglycemia. It works by slowly releasing small amounts of insulin to provide continuous glucose-lowering activity that lasts beyond 24 hours. With its stable and flat/peak-less action profile, Toujeo reduces glycemic variability, i.e. the daily highs and lows that people with diabetes on insulin may experience.
The product also comes with an impressive MY COACH patient support program (offered free to patients prescribed Toujeo). This patient support program provides six comprehensive months of hand-holding patients through their treatment journey - tips on diet and lifestyle, training on injection techniques, sugar monitoring and more, via a mix of telephonic and in-person sessions. MY COACH will be offered under Sanofi's Saath-7 initiative, the longest running patient support program in India, which has serviced more than 4,12,000 people with diabetes on insulin till date.
IPA Conducts Training Sessions at IPC
The National Coordination Center (NCC) for Pharmacovigilance Programme of India (PvPI), Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission (IPC) under the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Government of India, Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh (U.P.) organized Skill Development Programme (SDP) on “Basics and Regulatory Aspects of Pharmacovigilance – Optimising Medicine Safety is our Goal” from January 15-24, 2018 at Conference Hall of IPC, Ghaziabad. The Pharmacovigilance (PV) programme is conducted every year to accomplish SDP in the country under the government’s ambitious Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana. The objective of the workshop was to enhance the knowledge and skill of qualified PV professionals to ensure better patient safety as per the requirement of Schedule Y of Drugs & Cosmetics Act, 1940 and to enhance career prospects & employment opportunities in PV in government as well as in private sector. The target group for the programme was young pharma / medical / paramedical professionals seeking career in PV and existing professionals in PV. Faculties drawn for the programme were renowned experts from government teaching & corporate hospitals, regulatory authority, WHO, pharmaceutical industry, academia and research institutions.
The National Coordination Center (NCC) for Pharmacovigilance Programme of India (PvPI), Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission (IPC) under the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Government of India, Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh (U.P.) organized Skill Development Programme (SDP) on “Basics and Regulatory Aspects of Pharmacovigilance – Optimising Medicine Safety is our Goal” from January 15-24, 2018 at Conference Hall of IPC, Ghaziabad. The Pharmacovigilance (PV) programme is conducted every year to accomplish SDP in the country under the government’s ambitious Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana. The objective of the workshop was to enhance the knowledge and skill of qualified PV professionals to ensure better patient safety as per the requirement of Schedule Y of Drugs & Cosmetics Act, 1940 and to enhance career prospects & employment opportunities in PV in government as well as in private sector. The target group for the programme was young pharma / medical / paramedical professionals seeking career in PV and existing professionals in PV. Faculties drawn for the programme were renowned experts from government teaching & corporate hospitals, regulatory authority, WHO, pharmaceutical industry, academia and research institutions.
Dr. Reddy's Launches Tetrabenazine
Tablets in the US Market
Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories Ltd has launched Tetrabenazine Tablets, a therapeutic equivalent generic version of Xenazine (tetrabenazine) in the United States market approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (USFDA). The Xenazine brand and generic had US sales of approximately USD 322 million MAT for the most recent twelve months ending in November 2017 according to IMS Health.
Dr. Reddy's Tetrabenazine Tablets are available in strengths of 12.5 mg and 25 mg, each strength is available in a bottle count size of 112. Xenazine is a registered trademark of Valeant Pharmaceuticals Luxembourg S.A.R.L.
Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories Ltd has launched Tetrabenazine Tablets, a therapeutic equivalent generic version of Xenazine (tetrabenazine) in the United States market approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (USFDA). The Xenazine brand and generic had US sales of approximately USD 322 million MAT for the most recent twelve months ending in November 2017 according to IMS Health.
Dr. Reddy's Tetrabenazine Tablets are available in strengths of 12.5 mg and 25 mg, each strength is available in a bottle count size of 112. Xenazine is a registered trademark of Valeant Pharmaceuticals Luxembourg S.A.R.L.
Premas Life Sciences, IncellDx Sign
Distribution Deal
Premas Life Sciences Pvt, Ltd and IncellDx, Inc have signed an exclusive distribution agreement. The commercial partnership brings the power of cell by cell multiplex diagnostics for solid tumors carcinomas that can now be analyzed for molecular and protein biomarkers by flow cytometry. Included in the deal are: IncellDx’s patented single-cell assays for quantifying PD-L1 on tumor cells and immune cell subtypes; patented single-cell assay for HPV E6/ E7 mRNA detection in cervical samples; and, its incellPREP singlecell preparation kit for solid tissues including tumors.
Researchers at AIIMS, New Delhi have completed a successful study utilizing IncellDx’s next generation (3Dx) investigational molecular assay which quantifies E6, E7 mRNA overexpression in single cells simultaneously with the measurement of cell cycle and cell proliferation, the hallmark of progressive disease.
IncellDx is a molecular diagnostics company dedicated to revolutionizing healthcare one cell at a time. By combining molecular diagnostics with high throughput cellular analysis, the company’s focus is on critical life threatening diseases in the areas of cancer, specifically lung, cervical, head and neck, bladder, cancers.
Premas Life Sciences Pvt, Ltd and IncellDx, Inc have signed an exclusive distribution agreement. The commercial partnership brings the power of cell by cell multiplex diagnostics for solid tumors carcinomas that can now be analyzed for molecular and protein biomarkers by flow cytometry. Included in the deal are: IncellDx’s patented single-cell assays for quantifying PD-L1 on tumor cells and immune cell subtypes; patented single-cell assay for HPV E6/ E7 mRNA detection in cervical samples; and, its incellPREP singlecell preparation kit for solid tissues including tumors.
Researchers at AIIMS, New Delhi have completed a successful study utilizing IncellDx’s next generation (3Dx) investigational molecular assay which quantifies E6, E7 mRNA overexpression in single cells simultaneously with the measurement of cell cycle and cell proliferation, the hallmark of progressive disease.
IncellDx is a molecular diagnostics company dedicated to revolutionizing healthcare one cell at a time. By combining molecular diagnostics with high throughput cellular analysis, the company’s focus is on critical life threatening diseases in the areas of cancer, specifically lung, cervical, head and neck, bladder, cancers.
LifeCell Initiates Development of
Large Scale Manufacturing of MSCs
LifeCell, India’s first & largest stem cell bank in the country, a pioneer in stem cell research has embarked on a journey to develop large scale manufacturing of Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSCs).
Mesenchymal Stem Cells are one type of master stem cells that have the potential to form bone, cartilage, muscle and adipose tissues, thereby making them capable of being used in the several therapeutic areas. Importantly these MSC’s can be made available off-the-shelf for immediate treatment as they don’t need donor-recipient matching.
The potential of these MSCs of medical conditions are being checked in 50+ clinical trials around the world, with several companies like TiGenix, Mesoblast, etc., are also receiving market approvals in many countries such as Europe, Canada, Japan, and Australia. Even in India recently, the DCGI provided a limited approval to Stempeutics to market their MSC product for treatment of Critical Limb Ischemia.
LifeCell, India’s first & largest stem cell bank in the country, a pioneer in stem cell research has embarked on a journey to develop large scale manufacturing of Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSCs).
Mesenchymal Stem Cells are one type of master stem cells that have the potential to form bone, cartilage, muscle and adipose tissues, thereby making them capable of being used in the several therapeutic areas. Importantly these MSC’s can be made available off-the-shelf for immediate treatment as they don’t need donor-recipient matching.
The potential of these MSCs of medical conditions are being checked in 50+ clinical trials around the world, with several companies like TiGenix, Mesoblast, etc., are also receiving market approvals in many countries such as Europe, Canada, Japan, and Australia. Even in India recently, the DCGI provided a limited approval to Stempeutics to market their MSC product for treatment of Critical Limb Ischemia.
Historic Deal Signed Between Panacea
Biotec & Serum Institute of India
Panacea Biotec Ltd. (PBL) is delighted to announce the collaboration with signing of two long term agreements with Serum Institute of India Pvt. Ltd. (SII) and SII’s wholly owned subsidiary, Bilthovan Biologicals B.V. (BBIO). Under the collaboration SII is entitled to manufacture & sell fully liquid Whole cell Pertussis (wP) and Salk based Injectable Polio Vaccine (IPV) based Hexavalent vaccine (DTwP-HepB-Hib-IPV) developed & commercialized by Panacea Biotec, a first of its kind in this category.
WHO prequalified IPV is essential to successfully eradicating Polio across the globe, an effort that has already cost USD 20 Billion worldwide. There is a Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI) in place & Global Alliance for Vaccine Initiative (GAVI) has been supporting the program since 2013 having allocated USD 430 Million till 2018 with an additional donor pledge of USD 23 Million for 2019. At present GAVI is evaluating IPV under Vaccine Investment Strategy for Global Public Good.
Global demand of IPV/ IPV containing vaccines is estimated to rise significantly from ~100 Million in the year 2020 till supply constraints remain, to 250-350 Million doses every year starting 2022 depending upon a two or three dose schedule as Strategic Advisory Group of Experts (SAGE) on Immunization in April 2017 has recommended at least 2 doses of IPV in the routine Immunization schedule of the countries post OPV withdrawal
Panacea Biotec Ltd. (PBL) is delighted to announce the collaboration with signing of two long term agreements with Serum Institute of India Pvt. Ltd. (SII) and SII’s wholly owned subsidiary, Bilthovan Biologicals B.V. (BBIO). Under the collaboration SII is entitled to manufacture & sell fully liquid Whole cell Pertussis (wP) and Salk based Injectable Polio Vaccine (IPV) based Hexavalent vaccine (DTwP-HepB-Hib-IPV) developed & commercialized by Panacea Biotec, a first of its kind in this category.
WHO prequalified IPV is essential to successfully eradicating Polio across the globe, an effort that has already cost USD 20 Billion worldwide. There is a Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI) in place & Global Alliance for Vaccine Initiative (GAVI) has been supporting the program since 2013 having allocated USD 430 Million till 2018 with an additional donor pledge of USD 23 Million for 2019. At present GAVI is evaluating IPV under Vaccine Investment Strategy for Global Public Good.
Global demand of IPV/ IPV containing vaccines is estimated to rise significantly from ~100 Million in the year 2020 till supply constraints remain, to 250-350 Million doses every year starting 2022 depending upon a two or three dose schedule as Strategic Advisory Group of Experts (SAGE) on Immunization in April 2017 has recommended at least 2 doses of IPV in the routine Immunization schedule of the countries post OPV withdrawal
Lupin Forays into OTC Segment with Softovac
Pharma major Lupin Limited (Lupin) has made a foray into the over-the-counter (OTC) segment under the ‘Lupin Life Consumer Healthcare’ umbrella with the pan-India launch of Softovac. A 34- year old legacy brand, Softovac has been trusted by millions of consumers who suffer from constipation and irregular bowel habits.
Pegged at over USD 2.7 billion (INR 18862 crores) as on 2016 as per Nicholas Hall 2017 report , the Indian OTC market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 9 percent to cross the USD 6.5 billion (INR 44115 crores) mark by 2026. Softovac’s shift to OTC was piloted in West Bengal during which the brand witnessed a growth in sales of over 25 percent, and post the success of the pilot, a pan-India roll-out was initiated.
Softovac is a bowel regulator made with 100 percent natural actives like Isabgol, Sonamukhi, Harad, Mulethi, Gulab dal (ingredient), Amaltas, and Saunf, all of which are time-tested ingredients known to provide effective relief from constipation and irregular bowel habits.
Pharma major Lupin Limited (Lupin) has made a foray into the over-the-counter (OTC) segment under the ‘Lupin Life Consumer Healthcare’ umbrella with the pan-India launch of Softovac. A 34- year old legacy brand, Softovac has been trusted by millions of consumers who suffer from constipation and irregular bowel habits.
Pegged at over USD 2.7 billion (INR 18862 crores) as on 2016 as per Nicholas Hall 2017 report , the Indian OTC market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 9 percent to cross the USD 6.5 billion (INR 44115 crores) mark by 2026. Softovac’s shift to OTC was piloted in West Bengal during which the brand witnessed a growth in sales of over 25 percent, and post the success of the pilot, a pan-India roll-out was initiated.
Softovac is a bowel regulator made with 100 percent natural actives like Isabgol, Sonamukhi, Harad, Mulethi, Gulab dal (ingredient), Amaltas, and Saunf, all of which are time-tested ingredients known to provide effective relief from constipation and irregular bowel habits.
Evofem Biosciences Completes
Enrollment of Amphora Phase 3 Trial
Evofem Biosciences, a biotechnology company developing innovative products to fill women’s unmet healthcare needs, announced early completion of enrollment in its phase 3 clinical trial evaluating Amphora (L-lactic acid, citric acid, and potassium bitartrate) vaginal gel for the prevention of pregnancy. Clinical trial data is expected in the first quarter of 2019.
This single-arm, open-label, multicenter, phase 3 clinical trial enrolled over 1,350 women aged 18-35 at risk of pregnancy at over 100 centers in the United States. The primary endpoint of the study is the contraceptive efficacy of Amphora over seven cycles of use.
Amphora is concurrently being evaluated in a double-blinded placebo-controlled phase 2b/3 trial of Amphora for the prevention of urogenital chlamydia and gonorrhea in women. This sexually transmitted infection (STI) trial, which announced first patient enrollment on January 23, 2018, is designed to enroll approximately 850 women at up to 20 centers in the United States. Patients will be on-study for a four-month interventional period and subsequent one-month follow-up period
Evofem Biosciences, a biotechnology company developing innovative products to fill women’s unmet healthcare needs, announced early completion of enrollment in its phase 3 clinical trial evaluating Amphora (L-lactic acid, citric acid, and potassium bitartrate) vaginal gel for the prevention of pregnancy. Clinical trial data is expected in the first quarter of 2019.
This single-arm, open-label, multicenter, phase 3 clinical trial enrolled over 1,350 women aged 18-35 at risk of pregnancy at over 100 centers in the United States. The primary endpoint of the study is the contraceptive efficacy of Amphora over seven cycles of use.
Amphora is concurrently being evaluated in a double-blinded placebo-controlled phase 2b/3 trial of Amphora for the prevention of urogenital chlamydia and gonorrhea in women. This sexually transmitted infection (STI) trial, which announced first patient enrollment on January 23, 2018, is designed to enroll approximately 850 women at up to 20 centers in the United States. Patients will be on-study for a four-month interventional period and subsequent one-month follow-up period
15TH EDITION OF CLEAN INDIA SHOW TO KICK-START IN
MUMBAI ON JANUARY 18, 2018
The inaugural day will feature sessions on technologies for solid waste management and reuse and recycling of sewage and industrial waste water treatment, among other topics. Vinod Kumar Jindal, Joint Secretary and mission Director, SBM, Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs will make a special address at this session.
“Waste to energy technology is an essential aspect of Solid Waste Management. It is all the more pertinent in a country like India where the metro cities produce nearly 2 lakh tons MSW per day. While we are using our energies to dispose of this waste, developed nations are converting waste into energy and profiting from it. We have brought together some of the best minds in the world who will share their knowledge on best practices in waste management,” says Mangala Chandran, Director, VIS Group.
The second day will host the first ever show on infection control and hospital hygiene in India. Inaugurated by Dr Deepak Ramchandra Sawant, Hon’ble Minister for Public Health & Family Welfare, Government of Maharashtra the programme will see the participation of several leaders from the fraternity. “It will also witness the launch of India’s first WhatsApp group formed by microbiologists and infection control officials from over 400 hospitals in India. A landmark development, the WhatsApp group will facilitate free flow of information and real time updates on hospital hygiene,” says Jayaraman Nair, Chairman, VIS Group.
The third and concluding day, Jan 20 will host dedicated conferences on Facility Management and Laundry, dry cleaning and textile care.
“With more than ten thousand trade visitors, buyers, technology seekers, start-ups and international companies converging at the exhibition, this will be one of the largest of its kind shows,” adds Mangala Chandran. More than twenty seven industrial segments, corporate houses, malls, multiplexes, educational institutions, railways, airports, State Transport Authorities, Municipal Corporations, and Defence and Naval Departments are expected to visit the show to source the latest solutions that will be on display from across the world.
For further details, please contact:
Harshala Nayak Kiran Rao
Media Manager Account Manager
Spin Communiqué Spin Communiqué
Tel: 09619700161 Tel: 09619700164
Email: harshalan@spincommunique.com kiran@spincommunique.com
Mumbai Mumbai
- ASIA'S LARGEST EVENT ON PROFESSIONAL CLEANING, CLEAN INDIA SHOW ALONG WITH
WASTE TECHNOLOGY EXPO, LAUNDREX INDIA EXPO AND CAR CARE EXPO, TO BE
INAUGURATED BY DR RANJIT PATIL, MINISTER OF STATE, HOME (URBAN), URBAN
DEVELOPMENT, GOVERNMENT OF MAHARASHTRA
- DR DEEPAK SAWANT, MINISTER FOR PUBLIC HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE, GOVERNMENT OF MAHARASHTRA TO INAUGURATE CONFERENCE ON INFECTION CONTROL & HOSPITAL HYGIENE ON JANUARY 19
The inaugural day will feature sessions on technologies for solid waste management and reuse and recycling of sewage and industrial waste water treatment, among other topics. Vinod Kumar Jindal, Joint Secretary and mission Director, SBM, Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs will make a special address at this session.
“Waste to energy technology is an essential aspect of Solid Waste Management. It is all the more pertinent in a country like India where the metro cities produce nearly 2 lakh tons MSW per day. While we are using our energies to dispose of this waste, developed nations are converting waste into energy and profiting from it. We have brought together some of the best minds in the world who will share their knowledge on best practices in waste management,” says Mangala Chandran, Director, VIS Group.
The second day will host the first ever show on infection control and hospital hygiene in India. Inaugurated by Dr Deepak Ramchandra Sawant, Hon’ble Minister for Public Health & Family Welfare, Government of Maharashtra the programme will see the participation of several leaders from the fraternity. “It will also witness the launch of India’s first WhatsApp group formed by microbiologists and infection control officials from over 400 hospitals in India. A landmark development, the WhatsApp group will facilitate free flow of information and real time updates on hospital hygiene,” says Jayaraman Nair, Chairman, VIS Group.
The third and concluding day, Jan 20 will host dedicated conferences on Facility Management and Laundry, dry cleaning and textile care.
“With more than ten thousand trade visitors, buyers, technology seekers, start-ups and international companies converging at the exhibition, this will be one of the largest of its kind shows,” adds Mangala Chandran. More than twenty seven industrial segments, corporate houses, malls, multiplexes, educational institutions, railways, airports, State Transport Authorities, Municipal Corporations, and Defence and Naval Departments are expected to visit the show to source the latest solutions that will be on display from across the world.
For further details, please contact:
Harshala Nayak Kiran Rao
Media Manager Account Manager
Spin Communiqué Spin Communiqué
Tel: 09619700161 Tel: 09619700164
Email: harshalan@spincommunique.com kiran@spincommunique.com
Mumbai Mumbai
MedGenome Receives Accreditation
from CAP
MedGenome, India’s market leader in genetic diagnostics announced today that its NGS (Next Generation Sequencing) technology based clinical laboratory in Bangalore has been awarded accreditation from the College of American Pathologists (CAP) based on the results of an on-site inspection. The CAP Laboratory Accreditation Program is a globally recognized program and is the only one of its kind that utilizes teams of practicing laboratory professionals as inspectors and is designed to go well beyond regulatory compliance.
During the accreditation process, inspectors do a detailed check of the laboratory’s records and quality control procedures. They also assess the laboratory’s staff competency/qualifications, equipment, facilities, safety program, and overall management to ensure it meets CAP’s broad and stringent quality criteria. This accreditation is awarded to facilities meeting the highest standards of excellence in clinical laboratory practices. With this accreditation, MedGenome’s India laboratory joins the ranks of the most elite laboratories in the world.
With this accreditation, MedGenome is the only Indian laboratory to be CAP accredited for Whole genome/exome sequencing, PGS/PGD, CfDNA (Cell free DNA) testing for liquid biopsy and NIPT (Non-invasive prenatal screening test) and also the high resolution HLA typing.
MedGenome, India’s market leader in genetic diagnostics announced today that its NGS (Next Generation Sequencing) technology based clinical laboratory in Bangalore has been awarded accreditation from the College of American Pathologists (CAP) based on the results of an on-site inspection. The CAP Laboratory Accreditation Program is a globally recognized program and is the only one of its kind that utilizes teams of practicing laboratory professionals as inspectors and is designed to go well beyond regulatory compliance.
During the accreditation process, inspectors do a detailed check of the laboratory’s records and quality control procedures. They also assess the laboratory’s staff competency/qualifications, equipment, facilities, safety program, and overall management to ensure it meets CAP’s broad and stringent quality criteria. This accreditation is awarded to facilities meeting the highest standards of excellence in clinical laboratory practices. With this accreditation, MedGenome’s India laboratory joins the ranks of the most elite laboratories in the world.
With this accreditation, MedGenome is the only Indian laboratory to be CAP accredited for Whole genome/exome sequencing, PGS/PGD, CfDNA (Cell free DNA) testing for liquid biopsy and NIPT (Non-invasive prenatal screening test) and also the high resolution HLA typing.
DocExa by GlobalSpace Technologies
Launched at DigiPharmaX Awards 2017
GlobalSpace Technologies launched DocExa, “an exclusive digital platform developed using AI technology to help Doctors efficiently manage their patients & other engagements”, during DigiPharmaX (Digital Pharma Excellence) Awards 2017 at Mumbai. DocExa leverages artificial intelligence, cloud & mobility technology to empower Doctor, Patients & Pharma companies for meaningful & transparent engagement.
DocExa helps create a transparent engagement between the Doctor and Pharmaceutical communities, while adhering to the Government regulations and guidelines like UCPMP. Additionally, doctors can file ADR through DocExa which provides real-time access of adverse drug reactions reports to Pharmaceutical companies and helps them to improve the quality of drugs. Doctors can also avail medico-legal consulting from a team of trusted, verified and reputed Legal Advisors, with the help of just a click or a tap.
Today 60% of India’s population lies in tier two or three states. With greater penetration of mobility and growing number of internet users in rural India, pharmaceutical companies will be able to expand their reach to connect with increasing number of doctors through the DocExa platform. Leveraging technology, Doctors based in rural areas will be able to stay updated with the latest medical advancements and drug brands in the market, creating a win-win for the entire industry.
Speaking on the launch, Mr. Krishna Singh, Founder, Chairman & Managing Director, GlobalSpace Technologies said, “DocExa is the industry’s first AI driven Doctor-Pharmaceutical-Patient Connect Platform. In India, still the Doctor- Patient ratio is abysmally low at 1:1700. In its evolved form Docexa can enable Doctors to carry out differential diagnostics & help more number of patients, efficiently.
GlobalSpace Technologies launched DocExa, “an exclusive digital platform developed using AI technology to help Doctors efficiently manage their patients & other engagements”, during DigiPharmaX (Digital Pharma Excellence) Awards 2017 at Mumbai. DocExa leverages artificial intelligence, cloud & mobility technology to empower Doctor, Patients & Pharma companies for meaningful & transparent engagement.
DocExa helps create a transparent engagement between the Doctor and Pharmaceutical communities, while adhering to the Government regulations and guidelines like UCPMP. Additionally, doctors can file ADR through DocExa which provides real-time access of adverse drug reactions reports to Pharmaceutical companies and helps them to improve the quality of drugs. Doctors can also avail medico-legal consulting from a team of trusted, verified and reputed Legal Advisors, with the help of just a click or a tap.
Today 60% of India’s population lies in tier two or three states. With greater penetration of mobility and growing number of internet users in rural India, pharmaceutical companies will be able to expand their reach to connect with increasing number of doctors through the DocExa platform. Leveraging technology, Doctors based in rural areas will be able to stay updated with the latest medical advancements and drug brands in the market, creating a win-win for the entire industry.
Speaking on the launch, Mr. Krishna Singh, Founder, Chairman & Managing Director, GlobalSpace Technologies said, “DocExa is the industry’s first AI driven Doctor-Pharmaceutical-Patient Connect Platform. In India, still the Doctor- Patient ratio is abysmally low at 1:1700. In its evolved form Docexa can enable Doctors to carry out differential diagnostics & help more number of patients, efficiently.
Purushottam Agrawal, Founder
Ajanta Pharma Ltd Receives Lifetime
Achievement Award
Purushottam Agrawal, Chairman – Gencrest & Founder – Ajanta Pharma Ltd receives Jeevan Gaurav Navratna Sammaan by Maharashtra Rajya Agrawal Sammelan for his unparalleled achievements in the field of business as well as philanthropy. A visionary businessman and compassionate human being, he embodies all that is best in the entrepreneurial spirit of the famed Marwari community that has been the backbone of the saga of India’s commerce, industry and philanthropy.
Coming from a very humble background in a small remote village in the state of Maharashtra, his entrepreneurial journey started with a borrowed capital of Rs. 10,000 in 1973. His efforts turned a small repacking unit in a garage in Aurangabad into a pharmaceutical empire. Ajanta Pharma operates in 45 countries, which includes US, Europe, Asia and most of the least developed countries in African continent. The company, today, has a market capitalization of over Rs 13,000 Cr and employee strength of around 8,000 across the globe. His astute business acumen has resulted in introducing several revolutionary 1st to the market products in India.
Purushottam Agrawal, Chairman – Gencrest & Founder – Ajanta Pharma Ltd receives Jeevan Gaurav Navratna Sammaan by Maharashtra Rajya Agrawal Sammelan for his unparalleled achievements in the field of business as well as philanthropy. A visionary businessman and compassionate human being, he embodies all that is best in the entrepreneurial spirit of the famed Marwari community that has been the backbone of the saga of India’s commerce, industry and philanthropy.
Coming from a very humble background in a small remote village in the state of Maharashtra, his entrepreneurial journey started with a borrowed capital of Rs. 10,000 in 1973. His efforts turned a small repacking unit in a garage in Aurangabad into a pharmaceutical empire. Ajanta Pharma operates in 45 countries, which includes US, Europe, Asia and most of the least developed countries in African continent. The company, today, has a market capitalization of over Rs 13,000 Cr and employee strength of around 8,000 across the globe. His astute business acumen has resulted in introducing several revolutionary 1st to the market products in India.
Dr. Reddy’s Launches Melphalan
Hydrochloride for Injection in US Market
Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories Ltd has launched Melphalan Hydrochloride for Injection, a therapeutic equivalent generic version of Alkeran (melphalan hydrochloride) for Injection in the United States market approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (USFDA).
The Alkeran brand and generic had US sales of approximately USD 107 million MAT for the most recent twelve months ending in October 2017 according to IMS Health.
Dr. Reddy’s Melphalan Hydrochloride for Injection is available in a carton containing one single-dose clear glass vial of freeze-dried melphalan hydrochloride equivalent to 50 mg melphalan and one 10 mL clear glass vial of sterile diluent.
Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories Ltd has launched Melphalan Hydrochloride for Injection, a therapeutic equivalent generic version of Alkeran (melphalan hydrochloride) for Injection in the United States market approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (USFDA).
The Alkeran brand and generic had US sales of approximately USD 107 million MAT for the most recent twelve months ending in October 2017 according to IMS Health.
Dr. Reddy’s Melphalan Hydrochloride for Injection is available in a carton containing one single-dose clear glass vial of freeze-dried melphalan hydrochloride equivalent to 50 mg melphalan and one 10 mL clear glass vial of sterile diluent.
Clinigen Extends Deal with Eisai to Supply
Medicines to Africa
Clinigen Group plc the global pharmaceutical and services company, has extended its exclusive agreement with Eisai Europe Ltd to obtain the marketing authorisation and subsequently launch Halaven (eribulin), Fycompa (perampanel) and Lenvima (lenvatinib) into 10 African countries.
The new agreement follows the successful launch of Halaven and Fycompa in South Africa in February and July 2017 respectively. All three medicines will be submitted for registration in Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Ghana, Nigeria, Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania, subject to local regulatory approval.
Eribulin is currently licensed in South Africa only for the treatment of women with locally advanced or metastatic breast cancer who have received at least two chemotherapeutic regimens for their disease. These would usually include an anthracycline and taxane, unless not suitable. In 2012, breast cancer was the leading cancer among the female population in the majority of countries in Africa and is responsible for one in four diagnosed cancers and one in five cancer deaths in women worldwide.
Perampanel is currently licensed in South Africa only for the adjunctive treatment of partial-onset seizures, with or without secondarily generalised seizures in patients with epilepsy aged 12 years and older. Across Africa, the prevalence of epilepsy varies between 2.2 to 58 cases per 1000 people, with an average prevalence of 15.8 per 1000. The World Health Organisation estimates that in Africa, epilepsy directly affects 10 million people.
Lenvatinib is not currently registered in any of the 10 countries. In Europe, lenvatinib is licensed for the treatment of adult patients with progressive, locally advanced or metastatic, differentiated thyroid carcinoma (DTC), refractory to radioactive iodine. DTC is the most common form of thyroid cancer. Overall annual incidence globally is about 1/10,000, and the incidence appears to be increasing.
Clinigen Group plc the global pharmaceutical and services company, has extended its exclusive agreement with Eisai Europe Ltd to obtain the marketing authorisation and subsequently launch Halaven (eribulin), Fycompa (perampanel) and Lenvima (lenvatinib) into 10 African countries.
The new agreement follows the successful launch of Halaven and Fycompa in South Africa in February and July 2017 respectively. All three medicines will be submitted for registration in Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Ghana, Nigeria, Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania, subject to local regulatory approval.
Eribulin is currently licensed in South Africa only for the treatment of women with locally advanced or metastatic breast cancer who have received at least two chemotherapeutic regimens for their disease. These would usually include an anthracycline and taxane, unless not suitable. In 2012, breast cancer was the leading cancer among the female population in the majority of countries in Africa and is responsible for one in four diagnosed cancers and one in five cancer deaths in women worldwide.
Perampanel is currently licensed in South Africa only for the adjunctive treatment of partial-onset seizures, with or without secondarily generalised seizures in patients with epilepsy aged 12 years and older. Across Africa, the prevalence of epilepsy varies between 2.2 to 58 cases per 1000 people, with an average prevalence of 15.8 per 1000. The World Health Organisation estimates that in Africa, epilepsy directly affects 10 million people.
Lenvatinib is not currently registered in any of the 10 countries. In Europe, lenvatinib is licensed for the treatment of adult patients with progressive, locally advanced or metastatic, differentiated thyroid carcinoma (DTC), refractory to radioactive iodine. DTC is the most common form of thyroid cancer. Overall annual incidence globally is about 1/10,000, and the incidence appears to be increasing.
IIL Launches India’s 1st Intranasal
Vaccine for Parvo Virus in Dogs
Indian Immunologicals Limited (IIL) launches India’s first “nasal vaccine against dreaded Parvo virus” for Dogs- Branded as MEGAVAC-P NASAL the vaccine will protect pups as young as 4-6 weeks old. MEGAVAC-P NASAL is an intranasal vaccine containing live attenuated canine Parvovirus grown in cell culture. Hitherto only an injectable vaccine was available for vaccination against Parvo virus.
Canine parvovirus (CPV) infection in dogs has been associated with outbreaks of acute gastroenteritis characterized by bloody diarrhea, vomiting, depression, leukopenia, pyrexia, dehydration, with very high mortality rate. Puppies below 6 months of age are severely affected and adult dogs having inadequate immunity suffer from the disease. Interference of maternal antibodies, long survival rate of the virus in the environment, high infectious /contagious nature of the virus and susceptibility of the pups and weak animals are the factors that propagate the disease. Contaminated surroundings especially in kennels make it a difficult disease to control. Mortality rates are very high in affected dogs. Effective immunization is essential for the protection of the individual pet and the decrease of virus population. Live attenuated vaccines are currently used worldwide affording prolonged immunity that would confer protection against disease.
When MEGAVAC-P NASAL gets absorbed in the mucosal membrane in the nose it generates a mucosal immune response against the Canine Parvo Virus. Some of the important advantages are that Vaccine is administered at the source of natural infection (nasal cavity), provides fast immune response leading to superior protection against diseasecausing pathogens, safe, long-lasting and broad protection, less likely to cause allergic reactions and higher safety. It is extremely convenient to use the intra nasal vaccine than the injectable vaccine.
Indian Immunologicals Limited (IIL) launches India’s first “nasal vaccine against dreaded Parvo virus” for Dogs- Branded as MEGAVAC-P NASAL the vaccine will protect pups as young as 4-6 weeks old. MEGAVAC-P NASAL is an intranasal vaccine containing live attenuated canine Parvovirus grown in cell culture. Hitherto only an injectable vaccine was available for vaccination against Parvo virus.
Canine parvovirus (CPV) infection in dogs has been associated with outbreaks of acute gastroenteritis characterized by bloody diarrhea, vomiting, depression, leukopenia, pyrexia, dehydration, with very high mortality rate. Puppies below 6 months of age are severely affected and adult dogs having inadequate immunity suffer from the disease. Interference of maternal antibodies, long survival rate of the virus in the environment, high infectious /contagious nature of the virus and susceptibility of the pups and weak animals are the factors that propagate the disease. Contaminated surroundings especially in kennels make it a difficult disease to control. Mortality rates are very high in affected dogs. Effective immunization is essential for the protection of the individual pet and the decrease of virus population. Live attenuated vaccines are currently used worldwide affording prolonged immunity that would confer protection against disease.
When MEGAVAC-P NASAL gets absorbed in the mucosal membrane in the nose it generates a mucosal immune response against the Canine Parvo Virus. Some of the important advantages are that Vaccine is administered at the source of natural infection (nasal cavity), provides fast immune response leading to superior protection against diseasecausing pathogens, safe, long-lasting and broad protection, less likely to cause allergic reactions and higher safety. It is extremely convenient to use the intra nasal vaccine than the injectable vaccine.
Hilleman Laboratories Partners with
Innovative Future Vaccine Manufacturing Hub
Hilleman Laboratories, an equal joint-venture partnership between MSD and Wellcome Trust, is honored to be one of the key partners of the new Future Vaccine Manufacturing Hub led by Imperial College London. The hub has been established to increase immunisation coverage across the globe and improve the response to disease outbreaks through the rapid and cost-effective deployment of vaccines. £10 million of funding has been granted by the UK Department for Health, and will be managed by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC).
The all-new Future Vaccine Manufacturing Hub aims to address two major challenges facing creation of future vaccine manufacturing systems: How to design vaccine production systems that can produce tens of thousands of new doses within weeks of a new threat being identified; and How to improve current manufacturing processes and change the way vaccines are manufactured, stabilized and stored so that existing and new diseases can be prevented effectively, at reduced costs.
The hub will collaborate with the Developing Countries Vaccine Manufacturing Network on manufacturing projects in India, Vietnam, Bangladesh, Uganda and China. Integrated approaches that will be explored by researchers at the Hub include the development of synthetic RNA vaccines which can be rapidly manufactured; the rapid production of yeast and bacterially-expressed particles that mimic components of pathogenic viruses and bacteria; and protein stabilisation to preserve vaccines at high temperatures, avoiding the need for refrigerated distribution and storage.
The Hub is led by Imperial College London, and also involves the Universities of Bristol, Cambridge and Nottingham, Cranfield University, the Clinical Biotechnology Centre (CBC) as part of NHS Blood and Transplant, UK National Biologics Manufacturing Centre, CPI and National Institute for Biological Standards and Control (NIBSC). The hub will also collaborate with the Developing Countries Vaccine Manufacturing Network (DCVMN) and African Vaccine Manufacturers Initiative (AVMI) to maximise dissemination of knowledge.
Hilleman Laboratories, an equal joint-venture partnership between MSD and Wellcome Trust, is honored to be one of the key partners of the new Future Vaccine Manufacturing Hub led by Imperial College London. The hub has been established to increase immunisation coverage across the globe and improve the response to disease outbreaks through the rapid and cost-effective deployment of vaccines. £10 million of funding has been granted by the UK Department for Health, and will be managed by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC).
The all-new Future Vaccine Manufacturing Hub aims to address two major challenges facing creation of future vaccine manufacturing systems: How to design vaccine production systems that can produce tens of thousands of new doses within weeks of a new threat being identified; and How to improve current manufacturing processes and change the way vaccines are manufactured, stabilized and stored so that existing and new diseases can be prevented effectively, at reduced costs.
The hub will collaborate with the Developing Countries Vaccine Manufacturing Network on manufacturing projects in India, Vietnam, Bangladesh, Uganda and China. Integrated approaches that will be explored by researchers at the Hub include the development of synthetic RNA vaccines which can be rapidly manufactured; the rapid production of yeast and bacterially-expressed particles that mimic components of pathogenic viruses and bacteria; and protein stabilisation to preserve vaccines at high temperatures, avoiding the need for refrigerated distribution and storage.
The Hub is led by Imperial College London, and also involves the Universities of Bristol, Cambridge and Nottingham, Cranfield University, the Clinical Biotechnology Centre (CBC) as part of NHS Blood and Transplant, UK National Biologics Manufacturing Centre, CPI and National Institute for Biological Standards and Control (NIBSC). The hub will also collaborate with the Developing Countries Vaccine Manufacturing Network (DCVMN) and African Vaccine Manufacturers Initiative (AVMI) to maximise dissemination of knowledge.
Unichem Completes Sale and Transfer
of Domestic Formulations Business to Torrent Pharma
Unichem Laboratories Limited (Unichem) has completed the sale and transfer of its domestic formulations business in India and Nepal, on a going concern basis by way of slump sale, to Torrent Pharmaceuticals Limited (TPL).
Going ahead Unichem will focus attention on all aspects of the international business including finished formulations, API, contract manufacturing and contract research; increase its investments in R & D in the New Chemical and Biological Entities (NCE & NBE), Bio-similars and complex generics; and reward shareholders
Mr. Jayendra Shah, played a pivotal role in successful consummation of the transaction. He was the sole financial advisor to Unichem on negotiations, valuations and deal closure. N A Shah Associates LLP, Chartered Accountants were the advisors for tax and related matters and Trans Continental Capital Advisors Pvt. Ltd. were the strategic advisors
Unichem Laboratories Limited (Unichem) has completed the sale and transfer of its domestic formulations business in India and Nepal, on a going concern basis by way of slump sale, to Torrent Pharmaceuticals Limited (TPL).
Going ahead Unichem will focus attention on all aspects of the international business including finished formulations, API, contract manufacturing and contract research; increase its investments in R & D in the New Chemical and Biological Entities (NCE & NBE), Bio-similars and complex generics; and reward shareholders
Mr. Jayendra Shah, played a pivotal role in successful consummation of the transaction. He was the sole financial advisor to Unichem on negotiations, valuations and deal closure. N A Shah Associates LLP, Chartered Accountants were the advisors for tax and related matters and Trans Continental Capital Advisors Pvt. Ltd. were the strategic advisors
Hurun Names Biocon's Kiran Mazumdar
Shaw As the Most Respected Entrepreneur in 2017
The most coveted awards in individual excellence for India Inc., set up by Hurun Report was held with much fanfare at Four Seasons Hotel in Worli, Mumbai on 14th December 2017. Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, chairman of Biocon and Rana Kapoor, CEO of Yes Bank were named as the 2017 Most Respected Entrepreneurs of the Year for their role in the growth of their individual business, job creation, philanthropy, and overall contribution to the development of the nation.
The other coveted awards were received by Jitendra Virwani, Chairman and MD, Embassy Group, who is named 2017 Impact Entrepreneur of the Year, and Arokiaswamy Velumani, MD of Thyrocare Technologies Ltd. as 2017 Self-Made Entrepreneur of the Year.
Five billionaires won 2017 Industry Achievement Awards for their contribution in their respective sectors. They are Anant Goenka, MD of CEAT Ltd., for manufacturing (tyres), Ajit Isaac, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Quess Corp, for Services, Arun Chittilappilly, MD of Wonderla Holidays Ltd for Amusement Parks and Dr. GSK Velu, Chairman & MD, Trivitron Healthcare Group of Companies, for Medical Technology.
Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw was the only self-made woman billionaire entrepreneur from India in the Hurun India Rich List 2017. She has grown her business by 200% in the last one year alone. Rana Kapoor on the other hand has been recognised for the innovation in the financial sector in India. The Impact Entrepreneur Award is given to Jitendra Virwani who has not only grown his business of innovative co-working spaces but has significant achievements in philanthropy by adopting 36 schools in Bangalore.
Hurun Awards are given to individuals who have made significant contributions to the economy. The awards are bestowed after careful data gathering and qualitative research of India’s richest individuals. The Hurun Most Respected Entrepreneur Award was first established in 1999. This annual award focusses on two growing economies China and India. The Award is set up to recognise the success stories of entrepreneurs and talk about their stories on a global platform. The London based Hurun Report has been recognising the contributions made by entrepreneurs towards nation building by creating more jobs, build big businesses and engaging in philanthropy.
Hurun Awards is one of the most objective awards for individual achievement in wealth creation and nation building. The jury for the Hurun Awards consists of members from Hurun India and China teams, top entrepreneurs from India and UK, members from the Hurun India Rich List, and also senior economists who track India and China.
The most coveted awards in individual excellence for India Inc., set up by Hurun Report was held with much fanfare at Four Seasons Hotel in Worli, Mumbai on 14th December 2017. Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, chairman of Biocon and Rana Kapoor, CEO of Yes Bank were named as the 2017 Most Respected Entrepreneurs of the Year for their role in the growth of their individual business, job creation, philanthropy, and overall contribution to the development of the nation.
The other coveted awards were received by Jitendra Virwani, Chairman and MD, Embassy Group, who is named 2017 Impact Entrepreneur of the Year, and Arokiaswamy Velumani, MD of Thyrocare Technologies Ltd. as 2017 Self-Made Entrepreneur of the Year.
Five billionaires won 2017 Industry Achievement Awards for their contribution in their respective sectors. They are Anant Goenka, MD of CEAT Ltd., for manufacturing (tyres), Ajit Isaac, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Quess Corp, for Services, Arun Chittilappilly, MD of Wonderla Holidays Ltd for Amusement Parks and Dr. GSK Velu, Chairman & MD, Trivitron Healthcare Group of Companies, for Medical Technology.
Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw was the only self-made woman billionaire entrepreneur from India in the Hurun India Rich List 2017. She has grown her business by 200% in the last one year alone. Rana Kapoor on the other hand has been recognised for the innovation in the financial sector in India. The Impact Entrepreneur Award is given to Jitendra Virwani who has not only grown his business of innovative co-working spaces but has significant achievements in philanthropy by adopting 36 schools in Bangalore.
Hurun Awards are given to individuals who have made significant contributions to the economy. The awards are bestowed after careful data gathering and qualitative research of India’s richest individuals. The Hurun Most Respected Entrepreneur Award was first established in 1999. This annual award focusses on two growing economies China and India. The Award is set up to recognise the success stories of entrepreneurs and talk about their stories on a global platform. The London based Hurun Report has been recognising the contributions made by entrepreneurs towards nation building by creating more jobs, build big businesses and engaging in philanthropy.
Hurun Awards is one of the most objective awards for individual achievement in wealth creation and nation building. The jury for the Hurun Awards consists of members from Hurun India and China teams, top entrepreneurs from India and UK, members from the Hurun India Rich List, and also senior economists who track India and China.
Piramal Enterprises Acquires Digeplex
and Associated Brands
Piramal Enterprises’ Consumer Products Division announces the acquisition of Digeplex and associated brands from Shreya Lifesciences. This acquisition strengthens Piramal’s position in the Gastro-Intestinal (GI) segment and is complementary to its existing brands - Polycrol and Naturolax, in the GI segment. These brands hold rich legacy amongst consumers across India.
Nandini Piramal, Executive Director, Piramal Enterprises said, “Our aim is to be a significant player in every business under the Healthcare vertical of Piramal Enterprises Limited. Acquisition is one of the important routes to help us achieve our goal and in the last 2 years, we have completed three acquisitions in the Consumer Products business, itself. We believe Digeplex and its associated brands, are a strategic fit for our product portfolio that will help us move closer towards our stated objective. The combination of organically growing our existing core brands and strategically acquiring accretive brands, has helped us create a powerful portfolio of OTC brands in India.”
Kedar Rajadnye, COO - Consumer Products Division, Piramal Enterprises said, “Today’s consumers lead a fast and hectic lifestyle, which coupled with stress and infrequent food habits, tends to take a toll on their digestive wellbeing. As per AIOCD October 2017 data, the Gastro Intestinal market in India, which addresses the constipation, diarrhoea and appetite stimulant categories, is a ~INR 13,000 Crore market and has grown at ~11% y-o-y. We already have a well-established antacid brand – Polycrol, and Naturolax, an isabgol husk based brand which helps in treating constipation. With these additions, our basket of offerings in the Gastro Intestinal market will become larger.
We expect these brands to leverage the strong sales and distribution capability that we have built over the years and help us improve our profit margins. This brand has a huge potential to become a power brand in its category.”
Piramal Enterprises’ Consumer Products Division announces the acquisition of Digeplex and associated brands from Shreya Lifesciences. This acquisition strengthens Piramal’s position in the Gastro-Intestinal (GI) segment and is complementary to its existing brands - Polycrol and Naturolax, in the GI segment. These brands hold rich legacy amongst consumers across India.
Nandini Piramal, Executive Director, Piramal Enterprises said, “Our aim is to be a significant player in every business under the Healthcare vertical of Piramal Enterprises Limited. Acquisition is one of the important routes to help us achieve our goal and in the last 2 years, we have completed three acquisitions in the Consumer Products business, itself. We believe Digeplex and its associated brands, are a strategic fit for our product portfolio that will help us move closer towards our stated objective. The combination of organically growing our existing core brands and strategically acquiring accretive brands, has helped us create a powerful portfolio of OTC brands in India.”
Kedar Rajadnye, COO - Consumer Products Division, Piramal Enterprises said, “Today’s consumers lead a fast and hectic lifestyle, which coupled with stress and infrequent food habits, tends to take a toll on their digestive wellbeing. As per AIOCD October 2017 data, the Gastro Intestinal market in India, which addresses the constipation, diarrhoea and appetite stimulant categories, is a ~INR 13,000 Crore market and has grown at ~11% y-o-y. We already have a well-established antacid brand – Polycrol, and Naturolax, an isabgol husk based brand which helps in treating constipation. With these additions, our basket of offerings in the Gastro Intestinal market will become larger.
We expect these brands to leverage the strong sales and distribution capability that we have built over the years and help us improve our profit margins. This brand has a huge potential to become a power brand in its category.”
MedGenome Receives Accreditation
from CAP
MedGenome, India’s market leader in genetic diagnostics has announced that its NGS (Next Generation Sequencing) technology based clinical laboratory in Bangalore has been awarded accreditation from the College of American Pathologists (CAP) based on the results of an onsite inspection. The CAP Laboratory Accreditation Program is a globally recognized program and is the only one of its kind that utilizes teams of practicing laboratory professionals as inspectors. and is designed to go well beyond regulatory compliance.
During the accreditation process, inspectors do a detailed check of the laboratory’s records and quality control procedures. They also assess the laboratory’s staff competency/qualifications, equipment, facilities, safety program, and overall management to ensure it meets CAP’s broad and stringent quality criteria. This accreditation is awarded to facilities meeting the highest standard of excellence in clinical laboratory practices. With this accreditation, MedGenome’s India laboratory joins the ranks of the most elite laboratories in the world.
“Being awarded the accreditation by CAP is an extremely proud moment for us. It further validates our commitment to provide the highest standards in quality laboratory services” said Dr. V.L Ramprasad, COO MedGenome. “Having launched India’s first validated Liquid biopsy and the carrier screening tests, we are trying to find answers to some of the most complex diseases. We strive to provide the most accurate results based on thorough and rigorous processes to clinicians across India, so that they can produce the best outcomes for patients”.
With this accreditation, MedGenome is the only Indian laboratory to be CAP accredited for Whole genome/exome sequencing, CfDNA (Cell free DNA) testing for liquid biopsy and NIPT (Non-invasive prenatal screening test) and high resolution HLA typing.
MedGenome, India’s market leader in genetic diagnostics has announced that its NGS (Next Generation Sequencing) technology based clinical laboratory in Bangalore has been awarded accreditation from the College of American Pathologists (CAP) based on the results of an onsite inspection. The CAP Laboratory Accreditation Program is a globally recognized program and is the only one of its kind that utilizes teams of practicing laboratory professionals as inspectors. and is designed to go well beyond regulatory compliance.
During the accreditation process, inspectors do a detailed check of the laboratory’s records and quality control procedures. They also assess the laboratory’s staff competency/qualifications, equipment, facilities, safety program, and overall management to ensure it meets CAP’s broad and stringent quality criteria. This accreditation is awarded to facilities meeting the highest standard of excellence in clinical laboratory practices. With this accreditation, MedGenome’s India laboratory joins the ranks of the most elite laboratories in the world.
“Being awarded the accreditation by CAP is an extremely proud moment for us. It further validates our commitment to provide the highest standards in quality laboratory services” said Dr. V.L Ramprasad, COO MedGenome. “Having launched India’s first validated Liquid biopsy and the carrier screening tests, we are trying to find answers to some of the most complex diseases. We strive to provide the most accurate results based on thorough and rigorous processes to clinicians across India, so that they can produce the best outcomes for patients”.
With this accreditation, MedGenome is the only Indian laboratory to be CAP accredited for Whole genome/exome sequencing, CfDNA (Cell free DNA) testing for liquid biopsy and NIPT (Non-invasive prenatal screening test) and high resolution HLA typing.
A Turnkey Meeting to Add Fillip to India’s
Pre-eminent Position in Pharma Domain
The 2nd edition of the celebrated India Pharma Week, a UBM India initiative -- introduced last year to celebrate a decade of CPhI & P-MEC, UBM’s flagship engagement platform, and the world’s leading Pharmaceutical networking event -- witnessed one of its most significant events, the CEO Round Table.
The exclusive, closed-door Round Table was a congregation of India’s most influential CEOs, Presidents & Founders from leading pharmaceutical companies, and Policy Makers & Senior Representatives from Pharmaceutical Associations who engaged with one another on the vital issue of Make in India – Ensuring India’s Pharma Supremacy with a special focus on affordable healthcare in the urban and rural areas in India.
Speaking on the occasion of the CEO Round Table, Mr. Yogesh Mudras, Managing Director, UBM India said, “Renowned as the pharmacy hub of the world, the Indian pharma economy has been lauded for its rapid growth, with a CAGR of 17.6%. As we congregated for this elite knowledge sharing session, we confronted the Indian pharma industry at a very crucial juncture in its growth trajectory. While India ranks amongst the top four pharmaceutical markets in terms of volume of produced drugs, certain challenges continue to surround its pharma industry. India faces issues including a time-consuming approval process, dependence on China for cheaper API sources, sub-optimal infrastructure, lack of funding avenues, and a shortage of highly skilled talent, among others."
The best-in-class industry professionals who were a part of the exclusive meeting included D G Shah, Secretary General, Indian Pharmaceutical Alliance; Dinesh Dua, CEO & Director, Nector Lifesciences; S V Veeramani, Chairman & MD, Fourrts (India) Laboratories Pvt Ltd; Prashant Nagre, CEO, Fermenta Biotach; Ranga Iyer, Former MD, Wyeth; Rajiv Gulati, Former President, Ranbaxy; Suresh Subramanium, Senior VP & Head, Branded Formulations, South Asia; Ashok Bhattacharya, Executive Director/ Country Manager, Takeda Pharmaceuticals India Pvt Ltd; Prof. Pierre Pienaar, President, WPO; Dev Prakash Yadava, Managing Director , Shardachem; Dr. G.M. Warke, Founder & CMD HiMedia Laboratories; A. Vaidheesh, MD, GSK; Ziva Abraham, CEO, Microrite Inc; Srinivas Lanka, Vice Chairman Pharma and Bio Taskforce, Andhra Pradesh Economic Development Board; Kewal Handa, Director, Salus Lifesciences; B.G. Barve, Joint Managing Director, Bluecross Laboratories Pvt Ltd; S M Mudda, Director Global Strategy, Microlabs and Mr Yogesh Mudras, Managing Director, UBM India.
A representative body of the group comprising Kewal Handa, Dr. Dinesh Dua, Sriram Shrinivasan, S.M. Mudda and Yogesh Mudras later interacted with the media to discuss the key tenets of its proposals.
The 2nd edition of the celebrated India Pharma Week, a UBM India initiative -- introduced last year to celebrate a decade of CPhI & P-MEC, UBM’s flagship engagement platform, and the world’s leading Pharmaceutical networking event -- witnessed one of its most significant events, the CEO Round Table.
The exclusive, closed-door Round Table was a congregation of India’s most influential CEOs, Presidents & Founders from leading pharmaceutical companies, and Policy Makers & Senior Representatives from Pharmaceutical Associations who engaged with one another on the vital issue of Make in India – Ensuring India’s Pharma Supremacy with a special focus on affordable healthcare in the urban and rural areas in India.
Speaking on the occasion of the CEO Round Table, Mr. Yogesh Mudras, Managing Director, UBM India said, “Renowned as the pharmacy hub of the world, the Indian pharma economy has been lauded for its rapid growth, with a CAGR of 17.6%. As we congregated for this elite knowledge sharing session, we confronted the Indian pharma industry at a very crucial juncture in its growth trajectory. While India ranks amongst the top four pharmaceutical markets in terms of volume of produced drugs, certain challenges continue to surround its pharma industry. India faces issues including a time-consuming approval process, dependence on China for cheaper API sources, sub-optimal infrastructure, lack of funding avenues, and a shortage of highly skilled talent, among others."
The best-in-class industry professionals who were a part of the exclusive meeting included D G Shah, Secretary General, Indian Pharmaceutical Alliance; Dinesh Dua, CEO & Director, Nector Lifesciences; S V Veeramani, Chairman & MD, Fourrts (India) Laboratories Pvt Ltd; Prashant Nagre, CEO, Fermenta Biotach; Ranga Iyer, Former MD, Wyeth; Rajiv Gulati, Former President, Ranbaxy; Suresh Subramanium, Senior VP & Head, Branded Formulations, South Asia; Ashok Bhattacharya, Executive Director/ Country Manager, Takeda Pharmaceuticals India Pvt Ltd; Prof. Pierre Pienaar, President, WPO; Dev Prakash Yadava, Managing Director , Shardachem; Dr. G.M. Warke, Founder & CMD HiMedia Laboratories; A. Vaidheesh, MD, GSK; Ziva Abraham, CEO, Microrite Inc; Srinivas Lanka, Vice Chairman Pharma and Bio Taskforce, Andhra Pradesh Economic Development Board; Kewal Handa, Director, Salus Lifesciences; B.G. Barve, Joint Managing Director, Bluecross Laboratories Pvt Ltd; S M Mudda, Director Global Strategy, Microlabs and Mr Yogesh Mudras, Managing Director, UBM India.
A representative body of the group comprising Kewal Handa, Dr. Dinesh Dua, Sriram Shrinivasan, S.M. Mudda and Yogesh Mudras later interacted with the media to discuss the key tenets of its proposals.
Cadila Pharma Organised Walk-a-thon
to Raise Awareness on AIDS
On the occasion of World AIDS Day, the employees of Cadila Pharmaceuticals Ltd took a ‘Step to Stop AIDS’ by participating in an AIDS Walk-a-thon organised on Friday, December 1, 2017. The aim of the walk-a-thon was to raise awareness about AIDS and also to open a dialogue for discussion.
The walk-a-thon was flagged off at ISKCON and saw the enthusiastic participation of the company’s employees. Dressed in blue and white, over 150 employees marched to Prahladnagar raising slogans and banners to throw spotlight on AIDS prevention. Several key messages about this pandemic disease were highlighted as well as archaic, discriminatory myths were busted. Slogans such as “START TALKING, STOP HIV”, “SILENCE=DEATH”, “Kissing and Hugging doesn’t spread HIV” were carried by the participants.
Adding further fervour to this walkathon were the members of the Avengers Biker Club of Ahmedabad who had specially escorted the participants throughout their stride.
At the end of the walk the participants gathered together in a group and took an oath to remain committed to fight the battle against AIDS by continuing to spread awareness on the disease.
On the occasion of World AIDS Day, the employees of Cadila Pharmaceuticals Ltd took a ‘Step to Stop AIDS’ by participating in an AIDS Walk-a-thon organised on Friday, December 1, 2017. The aim of the walk-a-thon was to raise awareness about AIDS and also to open a dialogue for discussion.
The walk-a-thon was flagged off at ISKCON and saw the enthusiastic participation of the company’s employees. Dressed in blue and white, over 150 employees marched to Prahladnagar raising slogans and banners to throw spotlight on AIDS prevention. Several key messages about this pandemic disease were highlighted as well as archaic, discriminatory myths were busted. Slogans such as “START TALKING, STOP HIV”, “SILENCE=DEATH”, “Kissing and Hugging doesn’t spread HIV” were carried by the participants.
Adding further fervour to this walkathon were the members of the Avengers Biker Club of Ahmedabad who had specially escorted the participants throughout their stride.
At the end of the walk the participants gathered together in a group and took an oath to remain committed to fight the battle against AIDS by continuing to spread awareness on the disease.
First ‘South Asian and Indian Ancestry
Genetic Test’
Xcode, an innovative personal genomics company based out of Chennai was in the city, has announced the Worldwide launch of the first of its kind ‘South Asian Ancestry Genetic Test’ that will trace one’s ancestry in the global and South Asian sub-population level. The test will reveal information about oneself comparing the DNA samples of each individual with more than 35 ethnic groups in India, Pakistan, Nepal, Bangladesh and other regional countries to provide a detailed ancestry break-up.
Talking on this Occasion, Dr. Abdur Rub, Co-Founder and Chief Technology Officer, Xcode Life Sciences said - “Our unique heritage, our unique history, the history of our ancestors, is living within each of us! You may be 20, 30 or 50 years old, but your genes are 3 billion years old. For the first time in human history, genetic technology makes it possible to uncover this unique past that each of us carry in us. I am very excited that Xcode is launching world’s first ‘South Asian Ancestry Genetic Test’ through which your DNA is matched with more than 35 ethnic groups in India and other groups worldwide, and your most recent paternal ancestor”.
Present at the launch to to spread awareness on using genomics to deduce Indian ancestry was Dr. Analabha Basu, Associate Professor, National Institute of Biomedical Genomics. Sharing his views on the subject, he said, “Knowledge about the origin of the human species as a whole has the potential to reshape our society. The more we learn about our diversity, the more we learn how connected we are. It can lead to path-breaking medical discoveries and pave the way forward to research based on our DNA patterns.”
Xcode will also help individuals to trace their paternal ancestry by evaluating your DNA which will decode ancient migratory patterns of their forefathers. Tracing our family tree is an activity that features in all our childhoods, but did any of us manage to reach beyond our grandparents or our great grandparents? All of us are products of generations of ancestry with a rich history and heritage, all embedded in our genes waiting to be uncovered. Every cell in our body contains DNA which can reveal everything from our family history to our ancestral migratory patterns and with Xcode’s innovative DNA ancestry test, you now have the chance to unravel this rich history written in your DNA.
Xcode, an innovative personal genomics company based out of Chennai was in the city, has announced the Worldwide launch of the first of its kind ‘South Asian Ancestry Genetic Test’ that will trace one’s ancestry in the global and South Asian sub-population level. The test will reveal information about oneself comparing the DNA samples of each individual with more than 35 ethnic groups in India, Pakistan, Nepal, Bangladesh and other regional countries to provide a detailed ancestry break-up.
Talking on this Occasion, Dr. Abdur Rub, Co-Founder and Chief Technology Officer, Xcode Life Sciences said - “Our unique heritage, our unique history, the history of our ancestors, is living within each of us! You may be 20, 30 or 50 years old, but your genes are 3 billion years old. For the first time in human history, genetic technology makes it possible to uncover this unique past that each of us carry in us. I am very excited that Xcode is launching world’s first ‘South Asian Ancestry Genetic Test’ through which your DNA is matched with more than 35 ethnic groups in India and other groups worldwide, and your most recent paternal ancestor”.
Present at the launch to to spread awareness on using genomics to deduce Indian ancestry was Dr. Analabha Basu, Associate Professor, National Institute of Biomedical Genomics. Sharing his views on the subject, he said, “Knowledge about the origin of the human species as a whole has the potential to reshape our society. The more we learn about our diversity, the more we learn how connected we are. It can lead to path-breaking medical discoveries and pave the way forward to research based on our DNA patterns.”
Xcode will also help individuals to trace their paternal ancestry by evaluating your DNA which will decode ancient migratory patterns of their forefathers. Tracing our family tree is an activity that features in all our childhoods, but did any of us manage to reach beyond our grandparents or our great grandparents? All of us are products of generations of ancestry with a rich history and heritage, all embedded in our genes waiting to be uncovered. Every cell in our body contains DNA which can reveal everything from our family history to our ancestral migratory patterns and with Xcode’s innovative DNA ancestry test, you now have the chance to unravel this rich history written in your DNA.
SCHOTT KAISHA Introduces Path
Breaking Pharma Packaging Innovation
SCHOTT KAISHA has introduced state-of-the art technologies and pathbreaking innovations in the pharmaceutical primary packaging space. With its advanced operational capabilities, SCHOTT KAISHA was the first manufacturer of glass syringes and cartridges in India, and continues to be a prime supplier for drug producers. “With our commitment to establish India as a leading export hub, we are a perfect success story of India’s ‘Make in India’ and Germany’s ‘Industry 4.0’ for automation in manufacturing technologies. For us, meeting and exceling in international standards is just a matter of fact but not the end goal. We want to raise the bar higher and set standards which others will follow,” said Rishad Dadachanji, Director, SCHOTT KAISHA.
Going into its second decade of joint venture operations in India next year, SCHOTT KAISHA has announced the opening of a second production module at its manufacturing plant in Jambusar, Gujarat to keep up with the rising market demand. The expanded module will increase the existing production capacity by almost 50 % and will be running in full capacity by the end of 2018, enabling SCHOTT KAISHA to cross 3 billion containers produced per annum.
Besides expanding its industrial footprint, SCHOTT KAISHA has continuously invested in research and development. With the recently launched new opto-electronic inspection systems for vials, a 100% cosmetic inspection of the entire vial from 5 different cameras has been achieved for the first time. The company is not only offering a standard inspection protocol with this system, but also various customization avenues, based on the evolving customer requirements. “We take pride in not just running our manufacturing plants as per the international standards, but also in becoming pioneers in introducing best practices in the Indian pharmaceutical packaging space. Our new offering is a classic example, being one of the most advanced cosmetic inspection systems as it covers 100% of the entire vial”, Rishad shared.
SCHOTT KAISHA has also introduced SCHOTT’s iQ™ platform in India, providing a versatile portfolio of Ready To Use (RTU) pre-fillable syringes - syriQ®, vials - adaptiQ®, as well as cartridges - cartriQ™. With the iQ™ platform, these RTU containers are packed in a nest inside an industry-standard tub, permitting smooth integration into existing syringe filling lines or new flexible filling lines. This not only enables a considerable reduction in the overall Time to Market, but also helps reducing investments by up to 40%, clean room space by up to 60%, and running costs by up to 40%.
SCHOTT KAISHA has introduced state-of-the art technologies and pathbreaking innovations in the pharmaceutical primary packaging space. With its advanced operational capabilities, SCHOTT KAISHA was the first manufacturer of glass syringes and cartridges in India, and continues to be a prime supplier for drug producers. “With our commitment to establish India as a leading export hub, we are a perfect success story of India’s ‘Make in India’ and Germany’s ‘Industry 4.0’ for automation in manufacturing technologies. For us, meeting and exceling in international standards is just a matter of fact but not the end goal. We want to raise the bar higher and set standards which others will follow,” said Rishad Dadachanji, Director, SCHOTT KAISHA.
Going into its second decade of joint venture operations in India next year, SCHOTT KAISHA has announced the opening of a second production module at its manufacturing plant in Jambusar, Gujarat to keep up with the rising market demand. The expanded module will increase the existing production capacity by almost 50 % and will be running in full capacity by the end of 2018, enabling SCHOTT KAISHA to cross 3 billion containers produced per annum.
Besides expanding its industrial footprint, SCHOTT KAISHA has continuously invested in research and development. With the recently launched new opto-electronic inspection systems for vials, a 100% cosmetic inspection of the entire vial from 5 different cameras has been achieved for the first time. The company is not only offering a standard inspection protocol with this system, but also various customization avenues, based on the evolving customer requirements. “We take pride in not just running our manufacturing plants as per the international standards, but also in becoming pioneers in introducing best practices in the Indian pharmaceutical packaging space. Our new offering is a classic example, being one of the most advanced cosmetic inspection systems as it covers 100% of the entire vial”, Rishad shared.
SCHOTT KAISHA has also introduced SCHOTT’s iQ™ platform in India, providing a versatile portfolio of Ready To Use (RTU) pre-fillable syringes - syriQ®, vials - adaptiQ®, as well as cartridges - cartriQ™. With the iQ™ platform, these RTU containers are packed in a nest inside an industry-standard tub, permitting smooth integration into existing syringe filling lines or new flexible filling lines. This not only enables a considerable reduction in the overall Time to Market, but also helps reducing investments by up to 40%, clean room space by up to 60%, and running costs by up to 40%.
Mylan Launches Biosimilar Bevacizumab in India
Mylan Pharmaceuticals Private Limited has announced the launch of ABEVMY (Injection Bevacizumab 100 mg and 400 mg), an anti-angiogenic drug approved by the Drug Controller General of India (DCGI) for all indications of the Roche’s Avastin, including for the treatment of metastatic colorectal, non-small-cell lung carcinoma, glioblastoma, ovarian, cervical and renal cancer as part of specific regimens for Indian patients.
The approval of ABEVMY was supported by a comprehensive data package to prove biosimilarity including robust analytical, pharmacokinetic, and pharmacodynamic studies and an India-specific, randomized, doubleblind clinical trial in metastatic colorectal cancer patients.
ABEVMY is a recombinant “humanized” monoclonal antibody that selectively binds to human vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and neutralizes its biologic activity. Bevacizumab inhibits the formation of tumor vasculature, thereby inhibiting tumor growth. An important benefit for patients is its price for each therapy cycle, which is comparatively lower than the existing options.
According to data from the Indian Council of Medical Research, 1.45 million new cases of cancer in the country were reported in 2016. This figure is estimated to increase by approximately 1.73 million new cases annually by 2020. Mylan’s oncology portfolio in India includes cytotoxic and targeted oncology therapies for common types of cancer.
Mylan Pharmaceuticals Private Limited has announced the launch of ABEVMY (Injection Bevacizumab 100 mg and 400 mg), an anti-angiogenic drug approved by the Drug Controller General of India (DCGI) for all indications of the Roche’s Avastin, including for the treatment of metastatic colorectal, non-small-cell lung carcinoma, glioblastoma, ovarian, cervical and renal cancer as part of specific regimens for Indian patients.
The approval of ABEVMY was supported by a comprehensive data package to prove biosimilarity including robust analytical, pharmacokinetic, and pharmacodynamic studies and an India-specific, randomized, doubleblind clinical trial in metastatic colorectal cancer patients.
ABEVMY is a recombinant “humanized” monoclonal antibody that selectively binds to human vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and neutralizes its biologic activity. Bevacizumab inhibits the formation of tumor vasculature, thereby inhibiting tumor growth. An important benefit for patients is its price for each therapy cycle, which is comparatively lower than the existing options.
According to data from the Indian Council of Medical Research, 1.45 million new cases of cancer in the country were reported in 2016. This figure is estimated to increase by approximately 1.73 million new cases annually by 2020. Mylan’s oncology portfolio in India includes cytotoxic and targeted oncology therapies for common types of cancer.
XCODE LIFE Launches the World’s
Bill Gates Acknowledges Hester for Developing a Newcastle Disease Vaccine
It gives us immense pride to share with you that Mr. Bill Gates mentioned Hester’s name in his speech at AP AgTech Summit 2017 in Visakhapatnam on 17 November 2017. Mr. Gates referred to the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation’s partnership with Hester in developing a Thermostable Newcastle disease vaccine for the smallholder backyard farmers.
Since 1997, Hester has been manufacturing the conventional Newcastle Disease vaccine, which is required to be stored and transported under a cold chain between 2 to 8 degrees Celsius. Facilitating mass access to the Newcastle Disease Vaccine in rural backyard poultry farms was therefore always a challenge due to the inability to maintain the cold chain up to the end user of the vaccine.
In 2014, Hester developed a Thermostable Newcastle disease vaccine that withstands a temperature up to 40 degrees Celsius for a few days. This vaccine was developed in collaboration with Galvmed, an international NGO having its head office in Edinburgh, Scotland, funded by the Gates Foundation.
This Thermostable Newcastle disease vaccine is being considered as an appropriate solution to the problem of last-mile-service delivery for backyard farms in rural area where cold-chain infrastructure is available in a compromised form.
It gives us immense pride to share with you that Mr. Bill Gates mentioned Hester’s name in his speech at AP AgTech Summit 2017 in Visakhapatnam on 17 November 2017. Mr. Gates referred to the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation’s partnership with Hester in developing a Thermostable Newcastle disease vaccine for the smallholder backyard farmers.
Since 1997, Hester has been manufacturing the conventional Newcastle Disease vaccine, which is required to be stored and transported under a cold chain between 2 to 8 degrees Celsius. Facilitating mass access to the Newcastle Disease Vaccine in rural backyard poultry farms was therefore always a challenge due to the inability to maintain the cold chain up to the end user of the vaccine.
In 2014, Hester developed a Thermostable Newcastle disease vaccine that withstands a temperature up to 40 degrees Celsius for a few days. This vaccine was developed in collaboration with Galvmed, an international NGO having its head office in Edinburgh, Scotland, funded by the Gates Foundation.
This Thermostable Newcastle disease vaccine is being considered as an appropriate solution to the problem of last-mile-service delivery for backyard farms in rural area where cold-chain infrastructure is available in a compromised form.
Ion Exchange (India) Limited Launches
High Purity Water Generation Product for the Pharma Industry
Industry leaders in water treatment, liquid waste management and environment solutions, Ion Exchange (India) Limited has announces the launch of INDION SWIFT 5Gx – a high purity water generation product catering to the special needs of the pharmaceutical industry. The product has been designed in consultation with pharmaceutical engineers and end users for maximum performance. This launch marks the company’s expansion of its product line for the sector within its ‘INDION’ purified water systems range.
353_SWIFTINDION SWIFT 5Gx improves efficiency and purity by introducing a new and unique technology which uses ‘Uniform Particle Size’ resins instead of the conventional resins otherwise used in water treatment and purification. The new product uses a shortcycle regeneration method and takes up to 35 minutes only in order to regenerate as compared to other available conventional products which have an average time of 8 hours for a single regeneration cycle. The product is a first of its kind for the pharmaceutical sector and with validation package.
Launching the product, Mr. Ajay Popat, President, Ion Exchange (India) Limited said, “Water is a primary ingredient for pharmaceutical preparations and high purity is an essential factor. Being pioneers in water treatment, Ion Exchange (India) has always invested in R&D to introduce some of the most innovative and technically advanced products and services to meet the needs of the pharma industry’s stringent and critical requirements. While we have a complete range of high purity water generation and demineralisation products, INDION SWIFT 5Gx offers state-of-the-art technology for producing high purity water consistently for the pharmaceutical and biotechnology sectors. The performance driven product is cost effective, modular, energy efficient and has a very short regeneration time of only 35 minutes. This is sure to improve overall productivity for varied pharmaceutical processes.”
INDION SWIFT 5Gx is fully automatic and has minimum bacteria buildup due to its short cycle. The product is also entirely compliant with latest USP & Eur. specifications and with GAMP & ISPE design standards. The INDION range by Ion Exchange is known for complete pure water generation package and is pre-validated to industry accepted standards.
Ion Exchange has been a preferred and trusted partner to the pharma sector for water treatment and purification across the world. In addition to high purity water solutions for the pharma and biotech sectors, Ion Exchange is also a specialist in ion exchange resins used for water applications and non-water applications i.e. excipients in pharmaceutical formulations, and polymeric adsorbents. It also offers a complete range of reverse osmosis membranes from its state-of-the-art integrated manufacturing facility in Goa. Other areas of specialization are Zero Liquid Discharge Systems, Raw Water Treatment Systems, Waste Water Treatment and Recycle Systems, and Sewage Treatment Plants. Additionally, it offers ASTOM, Japan’s wide range of Electro Deionisation Reversal/Diffusion Dialysis Membrane & Systems for Separation,
Industry leaders in water treatment, liquid waste management and environment solutions, Ion Exchange (India) Limited has announces the launch of INDION SWIFT 5Gx – a high purity water generation product catering to the special needs of the pharmaceutical industry. The product has been designed in consultation with pharmaceutical engineers and end users for maximum performance. This launch marks the company’s expansion of its product line for the sector within its ‘INDION’ purified water systems range.
353_SWIFTINDION SWIFT 5Gx improves efficiency and purity by introducing a new and unique technology which uses ‘Uniform Particle Size’ resins instead of the conventional resins otherwise used in water treatment and purification. The new product uses a shortcycle regeneration method and takes up to 35 minutes only in order to regenerate as compared to other available conventional products which have an average time of 8 hours for a single regeneration cycle. The product is a first of its kind for the pharmaceutical sector and with validation package.
Launching the product, Mr. Ajay Popat, President, Ion Exchange (India) Limited said, “Water is a primary ingredient for pharmaceutical preparations and high purity is an essential factor. Being pioneers in water treatment, Ion Exchange (India) has always invested in R&D to introduce some of the most innovative and technically advanced products and services to meet the needs of the pharma industry’s stringent and critical requirements. While we have a complete range of high purity water generation and demineralisation products, INDION SWIFT 5Gx offers state-of-the-art technology for producing high purity water consistently for the pharmaceutical and biotechnology sectors. The performance driven product is cost effective, modular, energy efficient and has a very short regeneration time of only 35 minutes. This is sure to improve overall productivity for varied pharmaceutical processes.”
INDION SWIFT 5Gx is fully automatic and has minimum bacteria buildup due to its short cycle. The product is also entirely compliant with latest USP & Eur. specifications and with GAMP & ISPE design standards. The INDION range by Ion Exchange is known for complete pure water generation package and is pre-validated to industry accepted standards.
Ion Exchange has been a preferred and trusted partner to the pharma sector for water treatment and purification across the world. In addition to high purity water solutions for the pharma and biotech sectors, Ion Exchange is also a specialist in ion exchange resins used for water applications and non-water applications i.e. excipients in pharmaceutical formulations, and polymeric adsorbents. It also offers a complete range of reverse osmosis membranes from its state-of-the-art integrated manufacturing facility in Goa. Other areas of specialization are Zero Liquid Discharge Systems, Raw Water Treatment Systems, Waste Water Treatment and Recycle Systems, and Sewage Treatment Plants. Additionally, it offers ASTOM, Japan’s wide range of Electro Deionisation Reversal/Diffusion Dialysis Membrane & Systems for Separation,
Avvashya CCI Logistics Commences
Operations at Bhiwandi Warehouse
Avvashya CCI Logistics (ACCI), a subsidiary company of Allcargo Logistics Ltd, has started operations at its new warehouse in Bhiwandi. The state-of-the-art warehouse is located at the Renaissance Logistics Park, WB-09 Bhiwandi. A part of the warehouse, upto 2500 pallet position, is dedicated for Clariant, a multinational specialty chemicals company and rest for other customers.
Spread across 1.31 lakh sq ft, the warehouse meets global standards in safety and security compliances. The facility functions on a multi-client mode and has a clear height of 10 meters, with mid height being 11.5 meters and fully racked with a capacity of 10,776 pallet positions.
The Bhiwandi warehouse has a geographical advantage as it is located on the proposed junction of Delhi Mumbai industrial freight corridor and Nagpur – Mumbai Industrial corridor thus having the attention of both central and state government for all its projects. The complex is located on the state highway no. 40 which is a proposed 4 lane road in the years to come, and is well connected with close proximity from Kalyan and thane railway stations as well as Kalamboli CFS. This park also falls under the proposed SMART CITY project of the Government and hence gets maximum attention of the MIDC and other government authorities in areas of development.
Avvashya CCI Logistics (ACCI), a subsidiary company of Allcargo Logistics Ltd, has started operations at its new warehouse in Bhiwandi. The state-of-the-art warehouse is located at the Renaissance Logistics Park, WB-09 Bhiwandi. A part of the warehouse, upto 2500 pallet position, is dedicated for Clariant, a multinational specialty chemicals company and rest for other customers.
Spread across 1.31 lakh sq ft, the warehouse meets global standards in safety and security compliances. The facility functions on a multi-client mode and has a clear height of 10 meters, with mid height being 11.5 meters and fully racked with a capacity of 10,776 pallet positions.
The Bhiwandi warehouse has a geographical advantage as it is located on the proposed junction of Delhi Mumbai industrial freight corridor and Nagpur – Mumbai Industrial corridor thus having the attention of both central and state government for all its projects. The complex is located on the state highway no. 40 which is a proposed 4 lane road in the years to come, and is well connected with close proximity from Kalyan and thane railway stations as well as Kalamboli CFS. This park also falls under the proposed SMART CITY project of the Government and hence gets maximum attention of the MIDC and other government authorities in areas of development.
The 'India Pharma Week' returns with a week full of avant-garde events alongside CPhI and P-MEC India
The 'India Pharma Week' returns with a week full of avant-garde events alongside CPhI and P-MEC India
• South Asia's largest Pharma event
• CPhI and P-MEC India to be held at two different venues i.e., MMRDA Grounds (BKC), Mumbai – 27th to 29th Nov ; the Bombay Exhibition Centre (Goregaon) – 28th to 30th Nov
• 1500+ exhibitors ; 40+ countries
• More than 10 eclectic events across Mumbai throughout the India Pharma Week
Mumbai, 14 November 2017 - UBM India, India's leading B2B exhibition organizer, is all set to bring in the second edition of the widely appreciated India Pharma Week, a week-long celebration packed with avant-garde events from 25th to 30th November alongside its flagship expo CPhI and P-MEC India. In its 11th edition, the marquee expo will be held at two venues in Mumbai - MMRDA Grounds, Bandra Kurla Complex (27th to 29th November) and Bombay Exhibition Centre (28th to 30th November).
Celebrating 11 years of CPhI and P-MEC India, the India Pharma Week will organise more than 10 events and activities taking place across the city of Mumbai pertaining to the streams of business, knowledge, leadership, innovation, recognition and networking in the field of Pharma.
Speaking on the announcement of the IPW, Mr. Yogesh Mudras, Managing Director, UBM India said, "I am delighted to announce the second edition of the India Pharma Week, an unrivalled offering to the world of exhibitions along with CPhI & P-MEC India, UBM’s flagship engagement platform, and the world’s leading Pharmaceutical networking event. An epitome of India’s strength in the Pharma industry, the expo has consistently grown to serve as an exclusive congregation of key global players across the pharmaceutical sector. Further, the expo would deliberate upon Government of India's ‘Pharma Vision 2020' to make India a global leader in end-to-end drug manufacturing in boosting investments.
“The India Pharma Week stems from the proactive role it plays in driving key Governmental initiatives such as ‘Make in India’, ‘Start-Up India, Stand Up India’, and ‘Skill India’ connecting the global community to eke out solutions to challenges, and establishing superior standards within it. With the recent proposal by the Drug Controller General of India (DCGI) to make it mandatory for all employees in pharmaceutical manufacturing facilities to get skill certification, a notable congregation of industry experts and knowledge sharing, such as IPW provides becomes even more significant,” he further added.
The week will commence with a Plant visit followed by a series of engagements such as Pharma Leaders Golf, Pre-Connect Congress, Women in Pharma – Power Breakfast, India Pharma Awards, Networking Evening, the CPhI & P-MEC India Exhibition, a closed-door CEO Roundtable and many more activities. CPHI provides global platform for the Indian Pharma industry to know and have the exposure of the latest technology available. In the past, Indian Pharmaceutical decision makers had to travel to international exhibitions to get to know new innovations on the technology front, however CPHI & P-Mec has brought this information to Indian pharma’s doorsteps”, said Mr. Damanjit Singh, CEO, Food & Pharma Specialities.
Ms. Saloni Wagh, Marketing & Business Development – Asia Pacific, Supriya Lifescience also shared her past experiences of the CPhI conference and said, “CPhI is one of the leading Pharma events in the world where the entire Industry comes together to discuss and get updated on the current trends, information and issues. CPhI Worldwide exhibitions do play an important role in our marketing strategy as it is a platform for us to meet all our customers from across the globe under one roof. It is also a great platform to launch new products and to identify potential customers, she further added.”
Incepted in 2006, the CPhI & P-MEC India exhibition has grown remarkably larger over the years with exhibitors and visitors engaging over significant levels of business. It has been approved and comprehensively assisted in its endeavours by governing bodies such as Pharmaceuticals Export Promotion Council (Pharmexcil). Spread across two locations, this year's edition will see more than 1500 exhibitors and participation from over 40 countries.
About the CPhi-PMEC expo:
Originating from CPhI Worldwide – CPhI India has become South Asia’s leading Pharma meeting place covering every step of the supply chain from drug discovery to finished dosage, encompassing CROs, CMOs and manufacturers of API, Generics, Excipients and Drug formulation, Fine chemicals, Biosimilars, Finished Formulations, Lab chemicals and Biotechnology.
P-MEC, on the other hand, includes manufacturers of Pharma Machinery and Equipment, Analytical Equipment, Automation & Robotics, Packaging Equipment & Supplies, Plant / Facility Equipment, Automation & Controls, Processing Equipment, RFID, Tableting / Capsule fillers, Clean room equipment, Filling equipment and Laboratory products.
About UBM India:
UBM India is India's leading exhibition organizer that provides the industry with platforms that bring together buyers and sellers from around the world, through a portfolio of exhibitions, content led conferences and seminars. UBM India hosts over 25 large scale exhibitions and 40 conferences across the country every year; thereby enabling trade across multiple industry verticals. A UBM Asia Company, UBM India has offices across Mumbai, New Delhi, Bangalore and Chennai. UBM Asia is owned by UBM plc which is listed on the London Stock Exchange. UBM Asia is the leading exhibition organizer in Asia and the biggest commercial organizer in mainland China, India and Malaysia. For further details, please visit ubmindia.in.
The 'India Pharma Week' returns with a week full of avant-garde events alongside CPhI and P-MEC India
• South Asia's largest Pharma event
• CPhI and P-MEC India to be held at two different venues i.e., MMRDA Grounds (BKC), Mumbai – 27th to 29th Nov ; the Bombay Exhibition Centre (Goregaon) – 28th to 30th Nov
• 1500+ exhibitors ; 40+ countries
• More than 10 eclectic events across Mumbai throughout the India Pharma Week
Mumbai, 14 November 2017 - UBM India, India's leading B2B exhibition organizer, is all set to bring in the second edition of the widely appreciated India Pharma Week, a week-long celebration packed with avant-garde events from 25th to 30th November alongside its flagship expo CPhI and P-MEC India. In its 11th edition, the marquee expo will be held at two venues in Mumbai - MMRDA Grounds, Bandra Kurla Complex (27th to 29th November) and Bombay Exhibition Centre (28th to 30th November).
Celebrating 11 years of CPhI and P-MEC India, the India Pharma Week will organise more than 10 events and activities taking place across the city of Mumbai pertaining to the streams of business, knowledge, leadership, innovation, recognition and networking in the field of Pharma.
Speaking on the announcement of the IPW, Mr. Yogesh Mudras, Managing Director, UBM India said, "I am delighted to announce the second edition of the India Pharma Week, an unrivalled offering to the world of exhibitions along with CPhI & P-MEC India, UBM’s flagship engagement platform, and the world’s leading Pharmaceutical networking event. An epitome of India’s strength in the Pharma industry, the expo has consistently grown to serve as an exclusive congregation of key global players across the pharmaceutical sector. Further, the expo would deliberate upon Government of India's ‘Pharma Vision 2020' to make India a global leader in end-to-end drug manufacturing in boosting investments.
“The India Pharma Week stems from the proactive role it plays in driving key Governmental initiatives such as ‘Make in India’, ‘Start-Up India, Stand Up India’, and ‘Skill India’ connecting the global community to eke out solutions to challenges, and establishing superior standards within it. With the recent proposal by the Drug Controller General of India (DCGI) to make it mandatory for all employees in pharmaceutical manufacturing facilities to get skill certification, a notable congregation of industry experts and knowledge sharing, such as IPW provides becomes even more significant,” he further added.
The week will commence with a Plant visit followed by a series of engagements such as Pharma Leaders Golf, Pre-Connect Congress, Women in Pharma – Power Breakfast, India Pharma Awards, Networking Evening, the CPhI & P-MEC India Exhibition, a closed-door CEO Roundtable and many more activities. CPHI provides global platform for the Indian Pharma industry to know and have the exposure of the latest technology available. In the past, Indian Pharmaceutical decision makers had to travel to international exhibitions to get to know new innovations on the technology front, however CPHI & P-Mec has brought this information to Indian pharma’s doorsteps”, said Mr. Damanjit Singh, CEO, Food & Pharma Specialities.
Ms. Saloni Wagh, Marketing & Business Development – Asia Pacific, Supriya Lifescience also shared her past experiences of the CPhI conference and said, “CPhI is one of the leading Pharma events in the world where the entire Industry comes together to discuss and get updated on the current trends, information and issues. CPhI Worldwide exhibitions do play an important role in our marketing strategy as it is a platform for us to meet all our customers from across the globe under one roof. It is also a great platform to launch new products and to identify potential customers, she further added.”
Incepted in 2006, the CPhI & P-MEC India exhibition has grown remarkably larger over the years with exhibitors and visitors engaging over significant levels of business. It has been approved and comprehensively assisted in its endeavours by governing bodies such as Pharmaceuticals Export Promotion Council (Pharmexcil). Spread across two locations, this year's edition will see more than 1500 exhibitors and participation from over 40 countries.
About the CPhi-PMEC expo:
Originating from CPhI Worldwide – CPhI India has become South Asia’s leading Pharma meeting place covering every step of the supply chain from drug discovery to finished dosage, encompassing CROs, CMOs and manufacturers of API, Generics, Excipients and Drug formulation, Fine chemicals, Biosimilars, Finished Formulations, Lab chemicals and Biotechnology.
P-MEC, on the other hand, includes manufacturers of Pharma Machinery and Equipment, Analytical Equipment, Automation & Robotics, Packaging Equipment & Supplies, Plant / Facility Equipment, Automation & Controls, Processing Equipment, RFID, Tableting / Capsule fillers, Clean room equipment, Filling equipment and Laboratory products.
About UBM India:
UBM India is India's leading exhibition organizer that provides the industry with platforms that bring together buyers and sellers from around the world, through a portfolio of exhibitions, content led conferences and seminars. UBM India hosts over 25 large scale exhibitions and 40 conferences across the country every year; thereby enabling trade across multiple industry verticals. A UBM Asia Company, UBM India has offices across Mumbai, New Delhi, Bangalore and Chennai. UBM Asia is owned by UBM plc which is listed on the London Stock Exchange. UBM Asia is the leading exhibition organizer in Asia and the biggest commercial organizer in mainland China, India and Malaysia. For further details, please visit ubmindia.in.
Bristol-Myers Squibb and Syngene
Expand Ongoing Research Collaboration
Syngene International, India’s largest contract research organization, has expanded its ongoing collaboration with Bristol- Myers Squibb. The next phase of the partnership will see the addition of a new facility to support future Bristol-Myers Squibb research and development operations, an expansion of the team and the extension of the existing agreement through 2026. The expansion will enable the two companies to undertake a greater range of scientific research and development for pharmaceuticals across a broader range of activities.
Syngene and Bristol-Myers Squibb have worked together since 1998. The research campus, known as Biocon BMS Research Center (BBRC), Syngene’s first dedicated R&D Center, was established in 2007, which was subsequently renewed through 2020 and now has been further extended through 2026. It is the largest research and development facility for Bristol-Myers Squibb outside of the United States and plays an integral part within their global research and development network.
Since its inception, BBRC has contributed to the discovery and pre-clinical development of numerous drug candidates for further study, as well as generated data that has led to multiple patent filings around the world. It has also played a key role in reducing the time and costs associated with advancing new compounds to first-in-human studies for Bristol-Myers Squibb.
As part of the expansion, Syngene will set up a new dedicated facility spread across 25,000 sq. ft. of laboratory and office space for Bristol-Myers Squibb. This facility will house an additional team of 75 Syngene scientists who will work exclusively in support of Bristol-Myers Squibb.
BBRC provides integrated services supporting Discovery, Translational Sciences and Product Development functions for Bristol-Myers Squibb.
Syngene International, India’s largest contract research organization, has expanded its ongoing collaboration with Bristol- Myers Squibb. The next phase of the partnership will see the addition of a new facility to support future Bristol-Myers Squibb research and development operations, an expansion of the team and the extension of the existing agreement through 2026. The expansion will enable the two companies to undertake a greater range of scientific research and development for pharmaceuticals across a broader range of activities.
Syngene and Bristol-Myers Squibb have worked together since 1998. The research campus, known as Biocon BMS Research Center (BBRC), Syngene’s first dedicated R&D Center, was established in 2007, which was subsequently renewed through 2020 and now has been further extended through 2026. It is the largest research and development facility for Bristol-Myers Squibb outside of the United States and plays an integral part within their global research and development network.
Since its inception, BBRC has contributed to the discovery and pre-clinical development of numerous drug candidates for further study, as well as generated data that has led to multiple patent filings around the world. It has also played a key role in reducing the time and costs associated with advancing new compounds to first-in-human studies for Bristol-Myers Squibb.
As part of the expansion, Syngene will set up a new dedicated facility spread across 25,000 sq. ft. of laboratory and office space for Bristol-Myers Squibb. This facility will house an additional team of 75 Syngene scientists who will work exclusively in support of Bristol-Myers Squibb.
BBRC provides integrated services supporting Discovery, Translational Sciences and Product Development functions for Bristol-Myers Squibb.
Piramal Wins ‘Industry Partner of
the Year’ at the Global Generics &
Biosimilars Awards 2017
Piramal Pharma Solutions (PPS) is pleased to announce that it was recognised as the ‘Industry Partner of the Year’ at the recently held Global Generics & Biosimilars Awards 2017, in Frankfurt, Germany. It competed with several global peers in this category and emerged as the winner.
The Global Generics & Biosimilars Awards 2017 rewards ‘best practice’ in two sectors, while at the same time encouraging improvements in every aspect of the way business is conducted.
Every award effectively underscores the efforts made by the global generics and biosimilars sectors to make affordable medicines available to more people across the globe. These are among the most coveted recognitions in the pharmaceutical industry.
Piramal Pharma Solutions is a global leader in pharmaceutical manufacturing, with a large portfolio of APIs, intermediates & formulations. Since its inception in 1995, Piramal’s Generic API business has been the preferred partner of customers for providing a wide range of quality APIs. The Generic API business has grown consistently over the years based on strong customer relationships, a stand out quality record, an emphasis on innovation, and a stellar reputation on time delivery and customer centricity. Piramal holds a successful performance record of over 20 years of supplying API to US and European markets from facilities located in India and the UK. All the facilities meet global regulatory requirements, cGMP compliance standards and are FDA inspected and approved.
Piramal Pharma Solutions (PPS) is pleased to announce that it was recognised as the ‘Industry Partner of the Year’ at the recently held Global Generics & Biosimilars Awards 2017, in Frankfurt, Germany. It competed with several global peers in this category and emerged as the winner.
The Global Generics & Biosimilars Awards 2017 rewards ‘best practice’ in two sectors, while at the same time encouraging improvements in every aspect of the way business is conducted.
Every award effectively underscores the efforts made by the global generics and biosimilars sectors to make affordable medicines available to more people across the globe. These are among the most coveted recognitions in the pharmaceutical industry.
Piramal Pharma Solutions is a global leader in pharmaceutical manufacturing, with a large portfolio of APIs, intermediates & formulations. Since its inception in 1995, Piramal’s Generic API business has been the preferred partner of customers for providing a wide range of quality APIs. The Generic API business has grown consistently over the years based on strong customer relationships, a stand out quality record, an emphasis on innovation, and a stellar reputation on time delivery and customer centricity. Piramal holds a successful performance record of over 20 years of supplying API to US and European markets from facilities located in India and the UK. All the facilities meet global regulatory requirements, cGMP compliance standards and are FDA inspected and approved.
Roche Appoints Lara Bezerra as MD,
Roche Pharma India
Roche has announced the appointment of Lara Bezerra as Managing Director for Roche Products (India) Pvt. Ltd. She succeeds Maturin Tchoumi who has now moved to Roche Finland in a new role.
Lara has held various positions of leadership across geographies, including Europe and Latin America. With over 24 years of experience in the pharmaceutical industry, Lara comes to India after a successful assignment as the General Manager of Roche Venezuela. Her tenure in Venezuela was among the most turbulent times in the country’s history, and her leadership was critical in navigating that period. In 2016, Roche was named among the Top 20 Places to Work in Venezuela.
“We are delighted to have Lara Bezerra join Roche India from Venezuela,” says Dr. Christiane Hamacher, Region head of Roche Pharmaceutical Asia Pacific. “With her strong business acumen and unique, people-centric leadership approach, Lara is ideally positioned to drive Roche’s efforts to bring our innovative treatments to patients in India.”
“I am excited to join the India team that has already made significant strides in bringing innovative healthcare solutions here,” says Lara Bezerra. “I look forward to building on this foundation by bringing our transformational medicines to the country, being a strong healthcare partner and making a meaningful difference for patients in India.”
Lara has a degree in Business Administration from the Fundacao Getulio Vargas (FGV) University, Sao Paulo, Brazil.
Roche has announced the appointment of Lara Bezerra as Managing Director for Roche Products (India) Pvt. Ltd. She succeeds Maturin Tchoumi who has now moved to Roche Finland in a new role.
Lara has held various positions of leadership across geographies, including Europe and Latin America. With over 24 years of experience in the pharmaceutical industry, Lara comes to India after a successful assignment as the General Manager of Roche Venezuela. Her tenure in Venezuela was among the most turbulent times in the country’s history, and her leadership was critical in navigating that period. In 2016, Roche was named among the Top 20 Places to Work in Venezuela.
“We are delighted to have Lara Bezerra join Roche India from Venezuela,” says Dr. Christiane Hamacher, Region head of Roche Pharmaceutical Asia Pacific. “With her strong business acumen and unique, people-centric leadership approach, Lara is ideally positioned to drive Roche’s efforts to bring our innovative treatments to patients in India.”
“I am excited to join the India team that has already made significant strides in bringing innovative healthcare solutions here,” says Lara Bezerra. “I look forward to building on this foundation by bringing our transformational medicines to the country, being a strong healthcare partner and making a meaningful difference for patients in India.”
Lara has a degree in Business Administration from the Fundacao Getulio Vargas (FGV) University, Sao Paulo, Brazil.
UE LifeSciences Inks Distribution Pact
with GE Healthcare
USA-India based med-tech startup UE LifeSciences Inc has announced a distribution partnership with GE Healthcare to commercialize its iBreastExam (iBE) in countries across South Asia and Africa.
The partnership brings together UE LifeSciences\’ skills to design and develop mobile health innovations, and GE Healthcare\’s sales, marketing and distribution expertise in these markets to enable early detection of breast cancer in the developing world, the company officials said.
UE LifeSciences, Founder and CEO, Mihir Shah had expressed that the iBreastExam can create access where none exists right now across its partnership geography. This partnership will provide a significant opportunity to commercially scale-up iBE across India, South Asia, Africa and South-East Asia and also work towards improving breast cancer related outcomes in these regions, said GE Healthcare Sustainable Healthcare Solutions President and CEO, Terri Bresenham.
BE is a Made in India device developed by a team of 20-plus scientists, engineers and clinicians with USD 1.3 million in grant funding from Pennsylvania Department of Health (CURE Grant), University City Science Center (QED & DHA), Drexel University (Coulter Programme) and Unitus Seed Fund (StartHealth grant). It is currently commercially available in India, Myanmar and Botswana The project has been mentored and invested by Dr Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw of Biocon, Dr Ranjan Pai of Manipal Education and Medical Group and Unitus Seed Fund, a social impact investor in affordable healthcare innovations.
USA-India based med-tech startup UE LifeSciences Inc has announced a distribution partnership with GE Healthcare to commercialize its iBreastExam (iBE) in countries across South Asia and Africa.
The partnership brings together UE LifeSciences\’ skills to design and develop mobile health innovations, and GE Healthcare\’s sales, marketing and distribution expertise in these markets to enable early detection of breast cancer in the developing world, the company officials said.
UE LifeSciences, Founder and CEO, Mihir Shah had expressed that the iBreastExam can create access where none exists right now across its partnership geography. This partnership will provide a significant opportunity to commercially scale-up iBE across India, South Asia, Africa and South-East Asia and also work towards improving breast cancer related outcomes in these regions, said GE Healthcare Sustainable Healthcare Solutions President and CEO, Terri Bresenham.
BE is a Made in India device developed by a team of 20-plus scientists, engineers and clinicians with USD 1.3 million in grant funding from Pennsylvania Department of Health (CURE Grant), University City Science Center (QED & DHA), Drexel University (Coulter Programme) and Unitus Seed Fund (StartHealth grant). It is currently commercially available in India, Myanmar and Botswana The project has been mentored and invested by Dr Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw of Biocon, Dr Ranjan Pai of Manipal Education and Medical Group and Unitus Seed Fund, a social impact investor in affordable healthcare innovations.
Glenmark Launches Apremilast
Glenmark Pharmaceuticals Limited, a research-led global integrated pharmaceutical company, announced the launch of Apremilast in India. Apremilast is the first advanced Oral Systemic treatment for Psoriasis in India. Apremilast is a phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4) inhibitor which is indicated for the treatment of moderate to severe Psoriasis. The launch of Apremilast will revolutionize the treatment of Psoriasis impacting close to 33 million Indians suffering from the condition.
Apremilast is an advanced oral treatment for Psoriasis which addresses the limitations of the current available therapies in India. It acts in a targeted manner at an early stage of the disease progression. Also, it is an immunomodulator whereas the other available drugs in the country are immunosuppressant including biologics and are mostly indicated for the treatment of oncological conditions. Immunosuppressants suppress the immune system thereby making the body susceptible to various infections. Apremilast being an immunomodulator does not suppress the immune system and treats the condition of psoriasis at an intracellular level which will benefit psoriasis patients across the country.
Apremilast is an oral therapy which can be self-administered unlike some of the currently available injectable therapy which have to be administered by paramedics. Further, Apremilast is a safer drug having no effects on other organs like the liver and kidney and does not require routine laboratory diagnostic tests like CBC, liver & Kidney test or TB screening as required in the case of other therapies used currently.
Glenmark has launched Apremilast under the brand name ‘Aprezo’ indicated for the treatment of Psoriasis. Glenmark received approval from DCGI for Apremilast after conducting clinical trials on the molecule as per the regulatory requirements.
Globally, about 3% of the world population has some form of Psoriasis. Another study reveals that the prevalence of psoriasis in countries ranges between 0.09% and 11.43%, making psoriasis as one of the serious issues.
India has now become one of the largest patient pool in the world and is estimated to have around 33 million psoriasis patients. As per a study on psoriasis in India, based on data collected across various medical colleges located in Lucknow, Dibrugarh, Calcutta, Patna, Darbhanga, New Delhi and Amritsar, it was found that the incidence of psoriasis among total skin patients ranged between 0.44 and 2.2%. It was also found that the ratio of male to female (2.46:1) was very high and the highest incidence was noted in the age group of 20-39 years.
Apremilast will revolutionize the treatment for 33 million psoriasis patients in the country. Apremilast is the first oral treatment in India specific for psoriasis treatment; it is convenient to administer, it is safer compared to existing therapies and will transform the psoriasis treatment regime in the country.
Glenmark Pharmaceuticals Limited, a research-led global integrated pharmaceutical company, announced the launch of Apremilast in India. Apremilast is the first advanced Oral Systemic treatment for Psoriasis in India. Apremilast is a phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4) inhibitor which is indicated for the treatment of moderate to severe Psoriasis. The launch of Apremilast will revolutionize the treatment of Psoriasis impacting close to 33 million Indians suffering from the condition.
Apremilast is an advanced oral treatment for Psoriasis which addresses the limitations of the current available therapies in India. It acts in a targeted manner at an early stage of the disease progression. Also, it is an immunomodulator whereas the other available drugs in the country are immunosuppressant including biologics and are mostly indicated for the treatment of oncological conditions. Immunosuppressants suppress the immune system thereby making the body susceptible to various infections. Apremilast being an immunomodulator does not suppress the immune system and treats the condition of psoriasis at an intracellular level which will benefit psoriasis patients across the country.
Apremilast is an oral therapy which can be self-administered unlike some of the currently available injectable therapy which have to be administered by paramedics. Further, Apremilast is a safer drug having no effects on other organs like the liver and kidney and does not require routine laboratory diagnostic tests like CBC, liver & Kidney test or TB screening as required in the case of other therapies used currently.
Glenmark has launched Apremilast under the brand name ‘Aprezo’ indicated for the treatment of Psoriasis. Glenmark received approval from DCGI for Apremilast after conducting clinical trials on the molecule as per the regulatory requirements.
Globally, about 3% of the world population has some form of Psoriasis. Another study reveals that the prevalence of psoriasis in countries ranges between 0.09% and 11.43%, making psoriasis as one of the serious issues.
India has now become one of the largest patient pool in the world and is estimated to have around 33 million psoriasis patients. As per a study on psoriasis in India, based on data collected across various medical colleges located in Lucknow, Dibrugarh, Calcutta, Patna, Darbhanga, New Delhi and Amritsar, it was found that the incidence of psoriasis among total skin patients ranged between 0.44 and 2.2%. It was also found that the ratio of male to female (2.46:1) was very high and the highest incidence was noted in the age group of 20-39 years.
Apremilast will revolutionize the treatment for 33 million psoriasis patients in the country. Apremilast is the first oral treatment in India specific for psoriasis treatment; it is convenient to administer, it is safer compared to existing therapies and will transform the psoriasis treatment regime in the country.
Mylan Introduces DURART R 450
Mylan Pharmaceuticals Private Limited, a leading global pharmaceutical company, has launched DURART R 450, a Fixed- Dose Combination (FDC) drug comprising of Darunavir/Ritonavir 400/50mg for treatment experienced adults and adolescents weighing more than 40kg with HIV-1 in India. This is the first FDC drug available to patients in India. Alternative treatments require patients to take two drugs separately from two different bottles.
Darunavir and Ritonavir are HIV protease inhibitors and can be used in combination for patients failing first and second-line regimens during the management of HIV-1 infection. Darunavir is currently available in India in 600 mg and 800 mg dose forms and Ritonavir is available in the 100 mg and 50 mg dose forms.
Globally, Mylan supplies life-saving antiretroviral (ARV) medicines to nearly 50% of the men, women and children living with HIV in more than 100 developing countries. The company’s comprehensive ARV portfolio includes 14 APIs and 50 finished dosage forms in first-line, second-line and pediatric formulations.
Mylan Pharmaceuticals Private Limited, a leading global pharmaceutical company, has launched DURART R 450, a Fixed- Dose Combination (FDC) drug comprising of Darunavir/Ritonavir 400/50mg for treatment experienced adults and adolescents weighing more than 40kg with HIV-1 in India. This is the first FDC drug available to patients in India. Alternative treatments require patients to take two drugs separately from two different bottles.
Darunavir and Ritonavir are HIV protease inhibitors and can be used in combination for patients failing first and second-line regimens during the management of HIV-1 infection. Darunavir is currently available in India in 600 mg and 800 mg dose forms and Ritonavir is available in the 100 mg and 50 mg dose forms.
Globally, Mylan supplies life-saving antiretroviral (ARV) medicines to nearly 50% of the men, women and children living with HIV in more than 100 developing countries. The company’s comprehensive ARV portfolio includes 14 APIs and 50 finished dosage forms in first-line, second-line and pediatric formulations.
Agilent Thought Leader Award
Presented to Professor Jiandong Jiang
Agilent Technologies Inc has announced that Professor Jiandong Jiang has received an Agilent Thought Leader Award in support of his studies on cancer stem cells differentiation induced by natural products.
“Cancer is a chronic disease generated by multiple factors. Our research is focused on the treatment of cancers with new concepts or principles, using cutting-edge techniques,” said Professor Jiang.
Professor Jiang is director of the Institute of Materia Medica (IMM), Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (CAMS) and Peking Union Medical College (PUMC) in Beijing, China. He is also the vice chairman of the China Pharmaceutical Innovation and Research Development Association (PhIRDA). Professor Jiang’s research focuses on antimicrobial drugs, including viruses and bacteria, anticancer drugs, and the development of treatments for metabolic syndrome.
The Agilent Thought Leader Award will enable Professor Jiang’s team to implement metabolite flux analyses, metabolism analyses, and integrated biology approaches to characterize the anti-tumor activity of natural products. In addition to Agilent mass spectrometry solutions, Professor Jiang’s lab will also make extensive use of Agilent Seahorse XF technology, and Agilent MassHunter and VistaFlux software. The project will also include a collaboration with Professor Wenbin Li from the Beijing Shijitan Hospital, Capital Medical University to perform clinical related research.
The IMM supports research and discovery of innovative drugs useful in treating or preventing human diseases. This work is done via creative multidisciplinary research based on Chinese herbal medicine and natural product research, along with the adoption of modern medical, and pharmaceutical theories and technologies.
Agilent Technologies Inc has announced that Professor Jiandong Jiang has received an Agilent Thought Leader Award in support of his studies on cancer stem cells differentiation induced by natural products.
“Cancer is a chronic disease generated by multiple factors. Our research is focused on the treatment of cancers with new concepts or principles, using cutting-edge techniques,” said Professor Jiang.
Professor Jiang is director of the Institute of Materia Medica (IMM), Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (CAMS) and Peking Union Medical College (PUMC) in Beijing, China. He is also the vice chairman of the China Pharmaceutical Innovation and Research Development Association (PhIRDA). Professor Jiang’s research focuses on antimicrobial drugs, including viruses and bacteria, anticancer drugs, and the development of treatments for metabolic syndrome.
The Agilent Thought Leader Award will enable Professor Jiang’s team to implement metabolite flux analyses, metabolism analyses, and integrated biology approaches to characterize the anti-tumor activity of natural products. In addition to Agilent mass spectrometry solutions, Professor Jiang’s lab will also make extensive use of Agilent Seahorse XF technology, and Agilent MassHunter and VistaFlux software. The project will also include a collaboration with Professor Wenbin Li from the Beijing Shijitan Hospital, Capital Medical University to perform clinical related research.
The IMM supports research and discovery of innovative drugs useful in treating or preventing human diseases. This work is done via creative multidisciplinary research based on Chinese herbal medicine and natural product research, along with the adoption of modern medical, and pharmaceutical theories and technologies.
Clariant Healthcare Packaging Site in
Cuddalore, India Now Operational
Clariant, a world leader in specialty chemicals, announces that its new Clariant Healthcare Packaging production facility in Cuddalore, Tamil Nadu, India is now operational. The new site is capable of producing Clariant’s line of Sorb-it, Tri-Sorb, 2-in-1 Can, and Getter Can sorbent canisters for the growing Indian and Asia-Pacific pharmaceutical packaging markets.
“The new site has been validated as scheduled, and we look forward to serving customers with Clariant desiccants directly from Cuddalore,” says Matthias Brommer, Head – Clariant Healthcare Packaging business line. “By manufacturing regionally, we will be able to provide improved supply and service to our significant customer base in India while further addressing important and emerging markets in Greater China, the rest of Asia and Australia.”
The Cuddalore site is already certified ISO 9001, with ISO 14001, 18001, and 15378 certifications intended to be obtained by the end of the year, the latter of which will add Cuddalore to Clariant Healthcare Packaging’s network of GMP-certified production facilities. Cuddalore is equipped with an ISO Class 8 clean room, and products produced at the site meet the relevant US FDA, USP and EU standards for use in pharmaceutical applications.
“Clariant canisters are among the most widely used pharmaceutical desiccants by generic manufacturers in India,” says Ketan Premani, Head – Healthcare Packaging India. “Thanks to the latest manufacturing equipment and product design, customers can expect the highest level of quality, and now with improved customer service.”
Not only does the new Cuddalore site augment Clariant’s production capacity for desiccant canisters, it also adds to Clariant’s ability to meet BCP (Business Continuity Planning) requirements of global customers by producing identical products at multiple sites worldwide. Furthermore, Clariant continues to offer the Indian market a full range of controlled atmosphere packaging solutions from its global production sites, and it can help customers determine the ideal packaging configuration via its Stablus™ program.
Clariant, a world leader in specialty chemicals, announces that its new Clariant Healthcare Packaging production facility in Cuddalore, Tamil Nadu, India is now operational. The new site is capable of producing Clariant’s line of Sorb-it, Tri-Sorb, 2-in-1 Can, and Getter Can sorbent canisters for the growing Indian and Asia-Pacific pharmaceutical packaging markets.
“The new site has been validated as scheduled, and we look forward to serving customers with Clariant desiccants directly from Cuddalore,” says Matthias Brommer, Head – Clariant Healthcare Packaging business line. “By manufacturing regionally, we will be able to provide improved supply and service to our significant customer base in India while further addressing important and emerging markets in Greater China, the rest of Asia and Australia.”
The Cuddalore site is already certified ISO 9001, with ISO 14001, 18001, and 15378 certifications intended to be obtained by the end of the year, the latter of which will add Cuddalore to Clariant Healthcare Packaging’s network of GMP-certified production facilities. Cuddalore is equipped with an ISO Class 8 clean room, and products produced at the site meet the relevant US FDA, USP and EU standards for use in pharmaceutical applications.
“Clariant canisters are among the most widely used pharmaceutical desiccants by generic manufacturers in India,” says Ketan Premani, Head – Healthcare Packaging India. “Thanks to the latest manufacturing equipment and product design, customers can expect the highest level of quality, and now with improved customer service.”
Not only does the new Cuddalore site augment Clariant’s production capacity for desiccant canisters, it also adds to Clariant’s ability to meet BCP (Business Continuity Planning) requirements of global customers by producing identical products at multiple sites worldwide. Furthermore, Clariant continues to offer the Indian market a full range of controlled atmosphere packaging solutions from its global production sites, and it can help customers determine the ideal packaging configuration via its Stablus™ program.
Wellthy Therapeutics Conducts First
Made-in-India ‘Digital Pill’ Clinical Trial
Wellthy Therapeutics a digital therapeutics company that uses artificial intelligence (AI) and patient centric design to improve patient outcomes is now conducting the first made-in-India ‘digital pill’ clinical trial for diabetes.
The #WeDiDiT (Wellthy Digital Diabetes Therapy) trial is all set to prove the efficacy of its 16-week structured diabetes management programme delivered through a mobile app.
The trial was launched by, Dr. Sarita Bajaj, past president, Research Society for the Study of Diabetes in India (RSSDI), at the RSSDI Annual Conference in Bhubaneswar in the first week of November. The outcome of this multi-center randomized control trial will be measured by the HbA1C levels of patients before and after the trial.
As part of the programme, personalized diabetes self-management education and real time coaching will be offered through dedicated health coaches and an artificial intelligence powered chat bot, to engage and improve the health of patients with type 2 diabetes by facilitating behavior change.
According to Dr. Rajeev Chawla, Current President Elect, RSSDI, the need for digital interventions in diabetes care is more now than ever, especially in India. The Wellthy Diabetes intervention is an innovation born out of India, for Indians and South Asians.
Wellthy Therapeutics a digital therapeutics company that uses artificial intelligence (AI) and patient centric design to improve patient outcomes is now conducting the first made-in-India ‘digital pill’ clinical trial for diabetes.
The #WeDiDiT (Wellthy Digital Diabetes Therapy) trial is all set to prove the efficacy of its 16-week structured diabetes management programme delivered through a mobile app.
The trial was launched by, Dr. Sarita Bajaj, past president, Research Society for the Study of Diabetes in India (RSSDI), at the RSSDI Annual Conference in Bhubaneswar in the first week of November. The outcome of this multi-center randomized control trial will be measured by the HbA1C levels of patients before and after the trial.
As part of the programme, personalized diabetes self-management education and real time coaching will be offered through dedicated health coaches and an artificial intelligence powered chat bot, to engage and improve the health of patients with type 2 diabetes by facilitating behavior change.
According to Dr. Rajeev Chawla, Current President Elect, RSSDI, the need for digital interventions in diabetes care is more now than ever, especially in India. The Wellthy Diabetes intervention is an innovation born out of India, for Indians and South Asians.
Torrent Pharma’s Project Gets
Centre Nod
The Centre gave green nod to Torrent Pharmaceuticals’ proposal to establish a bulk drug manufacturing unit in Gujarat with an investment of Rs 300 crore, as per an official document.
The Union Environment Ministry issued the environment clearance certificate for the proposed project saying that the approval has been given with certain riders. The Ahmedabad-based firm’s unit will cover 57,737 sq mt area in Kalol taluk. It would have a production capacity of 21,415 tonnes per annum.
The project is estimated to cost about Rs 300 crore and is expected to provide employment to 100 persons, as per the document. The ministry has asked the company to take necessary permissions from the state pollution control board, ensure zero liquid discharge and take waste minimisation measures. The company has been asked to plant 25,000 trees per year for next five years.
It has also been told to ensure storage of raw materials does not exceed three days at any point of time, it added. Torrent Pharma has strong presence in cardiovascular, dialectology, pain management, gastro-intestinal segments, dermatology, among other healthcare products.
The Centre gave green nod to Torrent Pharmaceuticals’ proposal to establish a bulk drug manufacturing unit in Gujarat with an investment of Rs 300 crore, as per an official document.
The Union Environment Ministry issued the environment clearance certificate for the proposed project saying that the approval has been given with certain riders. The Ahmedabad-based firm’s unit will cover 57,737 sq mt area in Kalol taluk. It would have a production capacity of 21,415 tonnes per annum.
The project is estimated to cost about Rs 300 crore and is expected to provide employment to 100 persons, as per the document. The ministry has asked the company to take necessary permissions from the state pollution control board, ensure zero liquid discharge and take waste minimisation measures. The company has been asked to plant 25,000 trees per year for next five years.
It has also been told to ensure storage of raw materials does not exceed three days at any point of time, it added. Torrent Pharma has strong presence in cardiovascular, dialectology, pain management, gastro-intestinal segments, dermatology, among other healthcare products.
Sciformix Corporation Collaborates
with Oracle Health Sciences
Sciformix Corporation, a leading scientific knowledge-based organization, is proud to announce its adoption of Oracle Argus Enterprise Edition platform to offer superior value to their customers in the Life Science industry. Through its collaboration with Oracle Health Sciences, Sciformix is able to offer its customers a fully automated and integrated safety database solution, allowing easy reporting and analytics for improving the quality and efficiency of drug safety operations. With headquarters in the United States and operations in the United Kingdom, Romania, India and the Philippines, Sciformix partners with Life Sciences clients to provide a full range of services including safety and risk management, clinical development, real world evidence and market research, scientific writing, regulatory affairs and technology services.
The Life Science industry is facing ongoing change with mergers, acquisitions, and increasingly complex regulations, along with the pressure of doing more with less. As a result, organizations have to develop strategies to manage divergent priorities in order to implement cost-saving measures while keeping a keen eye on innovative technology solutions that address growing compliance and data analytics needs. Rapidly growing organizations, with complex safety needs for clinical trials, often lack the necessary technology and scientific knowledge and look to partner with specialized solutions providers to manage their safety data. In addition, well-established companies are looking to increase efficiencies and compliance in the area of post-marketing surveillance. Many of these companies address this by turning to service providers who offer end-to-end solutions so they can focus on their core competencies of developing medicinal products.
In Pharmacovigilance (PV), Sciformix provides adverse event processing services such as safety case intake, medical review of adverse events, regulatory reporting and proactive risk management. Sciformix offers these services leveraging the Argus platform for both customers who utilize its PV services, and companies engaging their own PV delivery model. This offering includes technology infrastructure, user services, application services, regulatory reporting and data analytics. The Argus suite of software solutions enable compliance with E2B exchange standards for expedited reporting, allowing users to conduct global case processing that can scale up to many thousands of annual cases, while also improving reporting capabilities. This comprehensive services offering improves operational efficiencies through individual and bulk case processing, built in audit trails validation, instant scalability, and business agility to meet changing needs, while embracing innovation and reducing IT costs.
The Oracle Argus Platform offered through Sciformix enables companies to increase their visibility into their entire risk and safety continuum, including signal management, adverse drug event (ADE) trends, and performance analytics.
Sciformix Corporation, a leading scientific knowledge-based organization, is proud to announce its adoption of Oracle Argus Enterprise Edition platform to offer superior value to their customers in the Life Science industry. Through its collaboration with Oracle Health Sciences, Sciformix is able to offer its customers a fully automated and integrated safety database solution, allowing easy reporting and analytics for improving the quality and efficiency of drug safety operations. With headquarters in the United States and operations in the United Kingdom, Romania, India and the Philippines, Sciformix partners with Life Sciences clients to provide a full range of services including safety and risk management, clinical development, real world evidence and market research, scientific writing, regulatory affairs and technology services.
The Life Science industry is facing ongoing change with mergers, acquisitions, and increasingly complex regulations, along with the pressure of doing more with less. As a result, organizations have to develop strategies to manage divergent priorities in order to implement cost-saving measures while keeping a keen eye on innovative technology solutions that address growing compliance and data analytics needs. Rapidly growing organizations, with complex safety needs for clinical trials, often lack the necessary technology and scientific knowledge and look to partner with specialized solutions providers to manage their safety data. In addition, well-established companies are looking to increase efficiencies and compliance in the area of post-marketing surveillance. Many of these companies address this by turning to service providers who offer end-to-end solutions so they can focus on their core competencies of developing medicinal products.
In Pharmacovigilance (PV), Sciformix provides adverse event processing services such as safety case intake, medical review of adverse events, regulatory reporting and proactive risk management. Sciformix offers these services leveraging the Argus platform for both customers who utilize its PV services, and companies engaging their own PV delivery model. This offering includes technology infrastructure, user services, application services, regulatory reporting and data analytics. The Argus suite of software solutions enable compliance with E2B exchange standards for expedited reporting, allowing users to conduct global case processing that can scale up to many thousands of annual cases, while also improving reporting capabilities. This comprehensive services offering improves operational efficiencies through individual and bulk case processing, built in audit trails validation, instant scalability, and business agility to meet changing needs, while embracing innovation and reducing IT costs.
The Oracle Argus Platform offered through Sciformix enables companies to increase their visibility into their entire risk and safety continuum, including signal management, adverse drug event (ADE) trends, and performance analytics.
Dr. Reddy’s Launches Generic Azacitidine
Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories Ltd is pleased to announce that generic Azacitidine for injection 100 mg/vial, a bioequivalent generic version of VIDAZA (azacitidine for injection), is approved by Health Canada.
“Bringing Azacitidine for Injection to the Canadian market at this time is very important for us, as well as for our customers and their patients,” says Alok Sonig, Executive Vice President and Head of the North America Generics business at Dr. Reddy’s. “This launch represents Dr. Reddy’s commitment to make affordable injectable drugs available in Canada.” Dr. Reddy’s is first to market with this Azacitidine for injection in Canada.
Vinod Ramachandran, Ph.D., Country Manager, Dr. Reddy’s Canada says that “The approval and launch of Azacitidine for injection is an important milestone for Dr. Reddy’s in Canada. The launch of first generic Azacitidine for injection is another step in our long-term commitment to bring more cost-effective options to Canadian patients.”
Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories Ltd is pleased to announce that generic Azacitidine for injection 100 mg/vial, a bioequivalent generic version of VIDAZA (azacitidine for injection), is approved by Health Canada.
“Bringing Azacitidine for Injection to the Canadian market at this time is very important for us, as well as for our customers and their patients,” says Alok Sonig, Executive Vice President and Head of the North America Generics business at Dr. Reddy’s. “This launch represents Dr. Reddy’s commitment to make affordable injectable drugs available in Canada.” Dr. Reddy’s is first to market with this Azacitidine for injection in Canada.
Vinod Ramachandran, Ph.D., Country Manager, Dr. Reddy’s Canada says that “The approval and launch of Azacitidine for injection is an important milestone for Dr. Reddy’s in Canada. The launch of first generic Azacitidine for injection is another step in our long-term commitment to bring more cost-effective options to Canadian patients.”
A Vaidheesh Elected President of OPPI
The Organisation of Pharmaceutical Producers of India (OPPI), which represents research-based pharmaceutical companies in India, has unanimously elected Mr. A. Vaidheesh, Vice President, South Asia & Managing Director, GlaxoSmithKline Pharmaceuticals Ltd as President for the year 2017-18. He takes over from Dr. Shailesh Ayyangar, Managing Director, India & Head - South Asia, Sanofi who held this position since 2013. The four elected Vice Presidents are Sharad Tyagi, Managing Director, Boehringer Ingelheim; Sanjiv Navangul, Managing Director, Janssen India (Pharmaceutical Companies of Johnson & Johnson Ltd); S. Sridhar, Managing Director, Pfizer Ltd and Anand Nambiar, Managing Director, Managing Director, Merck India Ltd.
Speaking on his appointment, A. Vaidheesh, President- OPPI said, “I am honoured to be taking over the responsibility as President OPPI. Today, we are at the intersection of technology and medicine and the future of healthcare seems to be progressing towards ‘personalised’ medicines and ‘personalised’ patient-care. The pharmaceutical industry has an important role to play in delivering responsible healthcare and we look forward to partnering with the Government and other stakeholders in realizing the collective dream of a Healthy India. This dream can become a reality only when science and research deliver new cures for the unmet medical needs; thereby fostering an environment of innovation. On the policy front, I am sure that the National Health Policy and the National IPR Policy will lead the way for better health outcomes. Along with an inclusive ecosystem, in the coming years, healthcare financing will also play its role in improving access to healthcare. I believe we at the OPPI have clear priorities and along with the OPPI Secretariat led by Kanchana TK, Director General, OPPI, we will together work towards serving more patients in India ”
The Organisation of Pharmaceutical Producers of India (OPPI), which represents research-based pharmaceutical companies in India, has unanimously elected Mr. A. Vaidheesh, Vice President, South Asia & Managing Director, GlaxoSmithKline Pharmaceuticals Ltd as President for the year 2017-18. He takes over from Dr. Shailesh Ayyangar, Managing Director, India & Head - South Asia, Sanofi who held this position since 2013. The four elected Vice Presidents are Sharad Tyagi, Managing Director, Boehringer Ingelheim; Sanjiv Navangul, Managing Director, Janssen India (Pharmaceutical Companies of Johnson & Johnson Ltd); S. Sridhar, Managing Director, Pfizer Ltd and Anand Nambiar, Managing Director, Managing Director, Merck India Ltd.
Speaking on his appointment, A. Vaidheesh, President- OPPI said, “I am honoured to be taking over the responsibility as President OPPI. Today, we are at the intersection of technology and medicine and the future of healthcare seems to be progressing towards ‘personalised’ medicines and ‘personalised’ patient-care. The pharmaceutical industry has an important role to play in delivering responsible healthcare and we look forward to partnering with the Government and other stakeholders in realizing the collective dream of a Healthy India. This dream can become a reality only when science and research deliver new cures for the unmet medical needs; thereby fostering an environment of innovation. On the policy front, I am sure that the National Health Policy and the National IPR Policy will lead the way for better health outcomes. Along with an inclusive ecosystem, in the coming years, healthcare financing will also play its role in improving access to healthcare. I believe we at the OPPI have clear priorities and along with the OPPI Secretariat led by Kanchana TK, Director General, OPPI, we will together work towards serving more patients in India ”
Clariant Launches MEVOPUR PEAM 176045
Clariant, a world leader in specialty chemicals, announces a new amide/amine-free anti-static masterbatch concentrate for polyethylene films used in pharmaceutical production. The new anti-stat, known under grade name MEVOPUR PEAM 176045, will be introduced at CPhI Worldwide, being held 24 - 26 October 2017 at Messe Frankfurt. Clariant is exhibiting on Stand 42L20.
The introduction is timely due to the changes in industry standards which, by 2020, will limit the acceptability of many of the currently used films that contain amide- and amine-based anti-stats, says Stephen Duckworth, Clariant’s Head of Global Segment Medical and Pharmaceutical. For the first time, plastics used in pharma manufacturing, including anti-static films, will need to comply with the same standards as plastics packaging used for finished pharmaceuticals.
“Anti-static additives are routinely incorporated in the polyethylene ‘clean-room films’ that line containers and dispensers for active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs), and in the tubes used to transfer powdered and liquid API during drug production. They are important because the anti-static properties help to reduce the risk of dangerous conditions like explosions,” he explained.
The new additive masterbatch concentrate is part of MEVOPUR, the brand of ‘Controlled, Consistent and Compliant’ products for plastics applications in the medical and pharmaceutical industries.
When incorporated into PE films Clariant’s new anti-static provides very good static-dissipating performance and a competitive cost profile relative to alternatives. In addition, it has already been tested to the stricter new United States Pharmacopeia (USP) pharmaceutical standard for pharmaceutical-contacting plastics, which are scheduled to come into force in 2020. The new standard -- USP<665> ‘Plastic Components and Systems Used in the Manufacturing of Drug Products’ -- will, for the first time, apply the same risk-based assessment of materials. Plastic components and single-use containers are increasingly used in manufacturing processes, particularly biological manufacturing processes. Despite their advantages, these plastic assemblies elicit concerns about chemical compounds that may leach or migrate into finished products and impact product quality or safety.
Clariant, a world leader in specialty chemicals, announces a new amide/amine-free anti-static masterbatch concentrate for polyethylene films used in pharmaceutical production. The new anti-stat, known under grade name MEVOPUR PEAM 176045, will be introduced at CPhI Worldwide, being held 24 - 26 October 2017 at Messe Frankfurt. Clariant is exhibiting on Stand 42L20.
The introduction is timely due to the changes in industry standards which, by 2020, will limit the acceptability of many of the currently used films that contain amide- and amine-based anti-stats, says Stephen Duckworth, Clariant’s Head of Global Segment Medical and Pharmaceutical. For the first time, plastics used in pharma manufacturing, including anti-static films, will need to comply with the same standards as plastics packaging used for finished pharmaceuticals.
“Anti-static additives are routinely incorporated in the polyethylene ‘clean-room films’ that line containers and dispensers for active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs), and in the tubes used to transfer powdered and liquid API during drug production. They are important because the anti-static properties help to reduce the risk of dangerous conditions like explosions,” he explained.
The new additive masterbatch concentrate is part of MEVOPUR, the brand of ‘Controlled, Consistent and Compliant’ products for plastics applications in the medical and pharmaceutical industries.
When incorporated into PE films Clariant’s new anti-static provides very good static-dissipating performance and a competitive cost profile relative to alternatives. In addition, it has already been tested to the stricter new United States Pharmacopeia (USP) pharmaceutical standard for pharmaceutical-contacting plastics, which are scheduled to come into force in 2020. The new standard -- USP<665> ‘Plastic Components and Systems Used in the Manufacturing of Drug Products’ -- will, for the first time, apply the same risk-based assessment of materials. Plastic components and single-use containers are increasingly used in manufacturing processes, particularly biological manufacturing processes. Despite their advantages, these plastic assemblies elicit concerns about chemical compounds that may leach or migrate into finished products and impact product quality or safety.
Hilleman Receives Indo-Swedish
Grant for Developing OCV
Hilleman Laboratories, a joint-venture partnership between MSD and Wellcome Trust, received a 6 million krona Indo – Swedish grant for the project ‘Improved, affordable single strain whole cell-B subunit oral cholera vaccine’.
The proposed project, carried out by Hilleman Laboratories, is being jointly funded by the Department of Biotechnology (DBT), Government of India and Vinnova, the Swedish Governmental Agency for Innovation Systems.
The project will fuel further Research & Development of the Oral Cholera Vaccine (OCV) with knowledge exchange and transfer of scientists across India and Sweden.
Speaking on the partnership, Dr Davinder Gill, CEO Hilleman Laboratories said, “Cholera remains a threat to global public health and is a barometer of health inequity and lack of social development. Considering the urgent need for effective and affordable Cholera vaccines, both for use in Cholera outbreaks and in mass vaccination campaigns, we would like to accelerate development of our simplified Oral Cholera Vaccine, HILLCHOLTM.”
Hilleman Laboratories, a joint-venture partnership between MSD and Wellcome Trust, received a 6 million krona Indo – Swedish grant for the project ‘Improved, affordable single strain whole cell-B subunit oral cholera vaccine’.
The proposed project, carried out by Hilleman Laboratories, is being jointly funded by the Department of Biotechnology (DBT), Government of India and Vinnova, the Swedish Governmental Agency for Innovation Systems.
The project will fuel further Research & Development of the Oral Cholera Vaccine (OCV) with knowledge exchange and transfer of scientists across India and Sweden.
Speaking on the partnership, Dr Davinder Gill, CEO Hilleman Laboratories said, “Cholera remains a threat to global public health and is a barometer of health inequity and lack of social development. Considering the urgent need for effective and affordable Cholera vaccines, both for use in Cholera outbreaks and in mass vaccination campaigns, we would like to accelerate development of our simplified Oral Cholera Vaccine, HILLCHOLTM.”
Price Caps Helps Indian Medical
Device Makers Grow Positively: AiMeD
Association of Indian Medical Device Industry (AiMeD) has announced that the price cap on medical devices such as knee implants and heart stents is helping the domestic medical device market grow manifold.
Hailing the price control measures, Mr Rajiv Nath, Forum Coordinator, AiMeD said “In the last six months, we have seen a positive trend towards increased sales for domestic manufacturers. This is more so in Tier 2 & Tier 3 towns due to higher affordable access post reduction of prices. We estimate that this trend shall continue and boost the idea for manufacturing and the Indian manufacturers will grab 60% of the market share by next year.”
Mr Rajiv Nath said “Heavy lobbying is going on and pressure has increased on India to revise its stance on price caps for medical devices and not to extend it to other devices, but India should do what’s good for India and give advantage mainly to the common citizens who now have access to the best products at the most affordable prices and to domestic manufacturers.”
The lobbying against Price Capping is being done by MNC importers with overseas factories claiming to be Indian Industry when none of these makes stents in India. We await the announcements of price cap on other devices notified as Drugs e.g. heart valves, Intra Ocular Lens and Syringes and Infusion Products.
NPPA had exercised their powers to stop total withdrawal to avoid market shortages of dominant players. From AiMeD’s viewpoint it need not do so and after 6 months moratorium any importer can leave the market if he does not want to play it - but here it’s not about an importer abandoning the market, it’s actually more about market rationalisation while wanting to make the Indian Government look bad. Seemingly DoP has now relented and permitted withdrawal to one brand of Abbot, over riding the NPPA order which wanted supplies to be available and maintained for a year.
Association of Indian Medical Device Industry (AiMeD) has announced that the price cap on medical devices such as knee implants and heart stents is helping the domestic medical device market grow manifold.
Hailing the price control measures, Mr Rajiv Nath, Forum Coordinator, AiMeD said “In the last six months, we have seen a positive trend towards increased sales for domestic manufacturers. This is more so in Tier 2 & Tier 3 towns due to higher affordable access post reduction of prices. We estimate that this trend shall continue and boost the idea for manufacturing and the Indian manufacturers will grab 60% of the market share by next year.”
Mr Rajiv Nath said “Heavy lobbying is going on and pressure has increased on India to revise its stance on price caps for medical devices and not to extend it to other devices, but India should do what’s good for India and give advantage mainly to the common citizens who now have access to the best products at the most affordable prices and to domestic manufacturers.”
The lobbying against Price Capping is being done by MNC importers with overseas factories claiming to be Indian Industry when none of these makes stents in India. We await the announcements of price cap on other devices notified as Drugs e.g. heart valves, Intra Ocular Lens and Syringes and Infusion Products.
NPPA had exercised their powers to stop total withdrawal to avoid market shortages of dominant players. From AiMeD’s viewpoint it need not do so and after 6 months moratorium any importer can leave the market if he does not want to play it - but here it’s not about an importer abandoning the market, it’s actually more about market rationalisation while wanting to make the Indian Government look bad. Seemingly DoP has now relented and permitted withdrawal to one brand of Abbot, over riding the NPPA order which wanted supplies to be available and maintained for a year.
Claris Completes Sale of its Stake in
JV to Otsuka
Claris Lifesciences Limited has announced that it has completed the sale of its remaining 20 per cent stake in Otsuka Pharmaceutical India Private Limited; the joint venture with Otsuka Pharmaceutical Factory, Inc. and Mitsui & Co. Ltd; to Otsuka Pharmaceutical Factory, Inc. (Japan) for a consideration of USD 20 million.
The agreement to sell was announced on May 8, 2017 “Claris sells its stake in JV to Otsuka”
Claris Lifesciences Limited has announced that it has completed the sale of its remaining 20 per cent stake in Otsuka Pharmaceutical India Private Limited; the joint venture with Otsuka Pharmaceutical Factory, Inc. and Mitsui & Co. Ltd; to Otsuka Pharmaceutical Factory, Inc. (Japan) for a consideration of USD 20 million.
The agreement to sell was announced on May 8, 2017 “Claris sells its stake in JV to Otsuka”
Danone India Launches Protinex Bytes
Danone India, part of a leading global food company Danone, which has a mission ‘to bring health through food to as many people as possible’, today announced the launch of Protinex Bytes, a specially formulated protein rich, on-the-go nutrition snack for everyone with busy lifestyles. Consumers today are looking for convenient food supplements that provide adequate nutrition anywhere, anytime.
Protinex Bytes has been launched nationally. It is available in Vanilla Flavour in two SKUs of 100 gms and 200 gms for Rs. 145 and Rs. 280 respectively. Protein is an essential nutrient at every life-stage. Inadequate intake of protein can lead to tiredness. fatigue and loss of muscle mass associated with aging. Indian diets are inadequate in protein and majority of the proteins are obtained from cereals which are not a source of good quality proteins. It is important to consume good quality protein throughout the day to meet the protein requirements and activate body protein synthesis. The current formats are available in powder form and are required to be mixed in milk. Protinex Bytes is a more convenient format of a food supplement which not only helps meet nutritional requirements but is also a tasty and healthy on-the-go snack option. Five Protinex bytes provide more proteins (8g) than 1 glass of milk or 1 egg (6g).
Danone India, part of a leading global food company Danone, which has a mission ‘to bring health through food to as many people as possible’, today announced the launch of Protinex Bytes, a specially formulated protein rich, on-the-go nutrition snack for everyone with busy lifestyles. Consumers today are looking for convenient food supplements that provide adequate nutrition anywhere, anytime.
Protinex Bytes has been launched nationally. It is available in Vanilla Flavour in two SKUs of 100 gms and 200 gms for Rs. 145 and Rs. 280 respectively. Protein is an essential nutrient at every life-stage. Inadequate intake of protein can lead to tiredness. fatigue and loss of muscle mass associated with aging. Indian diets are inadequate in protein and majority of the proteins are obtained from cereals which are not a source of good quality proteins. It is important to consume good quality protein throughout the day to meet the protein requirements and activate body protein synthesis. The current formats are available in powder form and are required to be mixed in milk. Protinex Bytes is a more convenient format of a food supplement which not only helps meet nutritional requirements but is also a tasty and healthy on-the-go snack option. Five Protinex bytes provide more proteins (8g) than 1 glass of milk or 1 egg (6g).
Agilent Launches Triple Quadrupole
Mass Spectrometer in India
Agilent Technologies Inc has introduced the newest member of its family of triple quadrupole liquid chromatography mass spectrometers (triple quad LC/MS) at the Analytica Anacon India, being held on 21st September through 23rd September in Hyderabad, India. The Ultivo triple quad is a transformative approach to LC/MS that integrates several hardware and software innovations designed to deliver even more improved business results for customers.
Ultivo is optimized to address the food and environmental routine testing segments employing triple quad LC/MS systems for quantitative analyses. Ultivo delivers robust performance, superior uptime, and easier serviceability, in a footprint that is 70% smaller than previous instruments. Customers can now significantly increase their analytical throughput without having to increase the size of their existing laboratories.
In addition to its trendsetting size, Ultivo provides reproducible, reliable assays that result in exceptional performance in complex matrices. Greater ion transmission efficiency leads to optimized sensitivity; and improved, intelligent diagnostics use intuitive readbacks that can quickly identify issues, ensuring optimum uptime. Furthermore, Ultivo’s new VacShield vacuum provides vent-less ion injector exchange capabilities that reduce wear and tear and facilitate rapid front-end maintenance.
Agilent Technologies Inc has introduced the newest member of its family of triple quadrupole liquid chromatography mass spectrometers (triple quad LC/MS) at the Analytica Anacon India, being held on 21st September through 23rd September in Hyderabad, India. The Ultivo triple quad is a transformative approach to LC/MS that integrates several hardware and software innovations designed to deliver even more improved business results for customers.
Ultivo is optimized to address the food and environmental routine testing segments employing triple quad LC/MS systems for quantitative analyses. Ultivo delivers robust performance, superior uptime, and easier serviceability, in a footprint that is 70% smaller than previous instruments. Customers can now significantly increase their analytical throughput without having to increase the size of their existing laboratories.
In addition to its trendsetting size, Ultivo provides reproducible, reliable assays that result in exceptional performance in complex matrices. Greater ion transmission efficiency leads to optimized sensitivity; and improved, intelligent diagnostics use intuitive readbacks that can quickly identify issues, ensuring optimum uptime. Furthermore, Ultivo’s new VacShield vacuum provides vent-less ion injector exchange capabilities that reduce wear and tear and facilitate rapid front-end maintenance.
LifeCell Respectfully Challenges
ICMR’s Recommendations
The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) had made recommendations in its National guidelines to stem cell research, 2017, to suspend commercial banking of stem cells derived from biological materials such as cord tissue, placenta, tooth extract and menstrual blood. In its recommendation ICMR which functions under the health ministry had stated that there is no scientific evidence to substantiate the clinical benefits of these stem cells. Accordingly, the ICMR has issued guidelines stating that commercial banking of all other biological materials, other than UCB, is not permitted until further notification.
Mr Mayur Abhaya, CEO & Managing Director of LifeCell - India’s largest umbilical cord stem cell bank today questioned the hurried decision of ICMR in this guideline recommendations for preserving vital stem cells from cord tissue, menstrual blood and other biological material without considering many aspects. He commented that the decision does not carry a rationale for many reasons which he elaborated.
Mr Mayur Abhaya, CEO & Managing Director, LifeCell said “The decision to recommend a ban on banking of stem cells from cord tissue, menstrual blood and other biological sources is very unfortunate and totally overlooks the potential contribution of stem cells in research and development. Though today, applications of these are restricted, research and advanced clinical trials across the globe on these products have been demonstrating a significant progress. It is only a matter of time when these stem cells could become treatment solutions for many disorders that have very few other options for treatment.”
Now, if the contention is that these cord tissue and other MSC stem cells are going to be used for treatments today, if that is the concern of ICMR then the answer is a clear “No” since they have not been approved for therapies.
The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) had made recommendations in its National guidelines to stem cell research, 2017, to suspend commercial banking of stem cells derived from biological materials such as cord tissue, placenta, tooth extract and menstrual blood. In its recommendation ICMR which functions under the health ministry had stated that there is no scientific evidence to substantiate the clinical benefits of these stem cells. Accordingly, the ICMR has issued guidelines stating that commercial banking of all other biological materials, other than UCB, is not permitted until further notification.
Mr Mayur Abhaya, CEO & Managing Director of LifeCell - India’s largest umbilical cord stem cell bank today questioned the hurried decision of ICMR in this guideline recommendations for preserving vital stem cells from cord tissue, menstrual blood and other biological material without considering many aspects. He commented that the decision does not carry a rationale for many reasons which he elaborated.
Mr Mayur Abhaya, CEO & Managing Director, LifeCell said “The decision to recommend a ban on banking of stem cells from cord tissue, menstrual blood and other biological sources is very unfortunate and totally overlooks the potential contribution of stem cells in research and development. Though today, applications of these are restricted, research and advanced clinical trials across the globe on these products have been demonstrating a significant progress. It is only a matter of time when these stem cells could become treatment solutions for many disorders that have very few other options for treatment.”
Now, if the contention is that these cord tissue and other MSC stem cells are going to be used for treatments today, if that is the concern of ICMR then the answer is a clear “No” since they have not been approved for therapies.
Regenerative Medicine Set to Shake
up the Therapy Market
In what could be a radical shake-up of the healthcare sector, regenerative medical procedures such as stem-cell or gene therapy hold the promise of completely curing diseases rather than simply treating them. With the pharmaceutical industry’s business model currently based on treating incurable diseases with drugs, regenerative therapies are mostly being developed in specialist clinics and trial situations. Despite the rapid expansion of the market for new therapies – anticipated to grow 33 percent per year from 2020 through 2025 – Big Pharma show a striking lack of involvement and therefore risk missing out on a slice of this significant market.
Regenerative medicine could produce new therapeutic interventions for cancers, genetic disorders or autoimmune diseases. Stemcell therapy, for example, can restore damaged tissue or even regenerate entire organs. In a revolution for patients, many of whom have had to rely on medication for years, the focus is shifting from treatment to cure. And the market for regenerative medicine is set to grow rapidly, from a value of EUR 20 billion today to somewhere in the region of EUR 130 billion by 2025. These are among the findings of the latest study by Roland Berger, “Regenerative medicine – The next generation of therapeutic products is set to shake up the pharmaceutical world”.
“Regenerative medicine has the potential to turn the healthcare sector upside down for all involved: health insurers, hospitals and pharmaceutical players alike,” says Roland Berger Partner Thilo Kaltenbach. “As regenerative medicine becomes established over the coming years, it is going to transform the drug market in particular.”
In what could be a radical shake-up of the healthcare sector, regenerative medical procedures such as stem-cell or gene therapy hold the promise of completely curing diseases rather than simply treating them. With the pharmaceutical industry’s business model currently based on treating incurable diseases with drugs, regenerative therapies are mostly being developed in specialist clinics and trial situations. Despite the rapid expansion of the market for new therapies – anticipated to grow 33 percent per year from 2020 through 2025 – Big Pharma show a striking lack of involvement and therefore risk missing out on a slice of this significant market.
Regenerative medicine could produce new therapeutic interventions for cancers, genetic disorders or autoimmune diseases. Stemcell therapy, for example, can restore damaged tissue or even regenerate entire organs. In a revolution for patients, many of whom have had to rely on medication for years, the focus is shifting from treatment to cure. And the market for regenerative medicine is set to grow rapidly, from a value of EUR 20 billion today to somewhere in the region of EUR 130 billion by 2025. These are among the findings of the latest study by Roland Berger, “Regenerative medicine – The next generation of therapeutic products is set to shake up the pharmaceutical world”.
“Regenerative medicine has the potential to turn the healthcare sector upside down for all involved: health insurers, hospitals and pharmaceutical players alike,” says Roland Berger Partner Thilo Kaltenbach. “As regenerative medicine becomes established over the coming years, it is going to transform the drug market in particular.”
GNC Strengthens its Presence in India
GNC (General Nutrition Centre), headquartered in Pittsburgh, US, and a leading global specialty health, wellness, and nutraceuticals retailer, is strengthening its presence in India through its association with Guardian Healthcare, the official importer and seller of GNC products in India. Globally, GNC is a multi-billion brand and has around 9,000 locations and franchise operations in approximately 50 countries.
In India, Guardian Healthcare Services Pvt Ltd. has tied up with GNC as a sole franchisee with exclusive distribution and marketing rights. Founded by Mr Ashutosh Taparia, who has over two decades of expertise in healthcare, Guardian has a vision of establishing thought leadership position in Indian nutraceuticals market. GNC products are now available online on the e-commerce portals as well as at the retail outlets of Guardian Healthcare and other pharmacy chains. Guardian aims to make GNC range available at 4000 stores across all Metros & Tier 1 towns by 2020. Built on 80 years of superior product quality and innovation, GNC is committed to help Indian consumers in better managing lifestyle issues such as fatigue, stress, vitamin deficiencies, and cholesterol amongst others through the principles of ‘Scientific Nutrition’. With the objective of laying foundation for “Live Well” amongst the Indian consumers, GNC has identified four building blocks of nutrition - Multivitamins, Omega-3’s, Proteins, and Probiotics.
As many as 91 percent vegetarians and 85 percent non-vegetarians among Indians were deficient in proteins according to the survey titled ‘Protein Consumption in the Diet of adult Indians Survey’ (PRODIGY). GNC India is endeavouring to build the cause of #BuildingBlocksofNutrition to raise awareness about missing blocks in nutrition amongst Indians. It refers to need for bridging the gap between insufficient nutrition intakes in our day to day diet with the assistance of health and nourishment products.
GNC (General Nutrition Centre), headquartered in Pittsburgh, US, and a leading global specialty health, wellness, and nutraceuticals retailer, is strengthening its presence in India through its association with Guardian Healthcare, the official importer and seller of GNC products in India. Globally, GNC is a multi-billion brand and has around 9,000 locations and franchise operations in approximately 50 countries.
In India, Guardian Healthcare Services Pvt Ltd. has tied up with GNC as a sole franchisee with exclusive distribution and marketing rights. Founded by Mr Ashutosh Taparia, who has over two decades of expertise in healthcare, Guardian has a vision of establishing thought leadership position in Indian nutraceuticals market. GNC products are now available online on the e-commerce portals as well as at the retail outlets of Guardian Healthcare and other pharmacy chains. Guardian aims to make GNC range available at 4000 stores across all Metros & Tier 1 towns by 2020. Built on 80 years of superior product quality and innovation, GNC is committed to help Indian consumers in better managing lifestyle issues such as fatigue, stress, vitamin deficiencies, and cholesterol amongst others through the principles of ‘Scientific Nutrition’. With the objective of laying foundation for “Live Well” amongst the Indian consumers, GNC has identified four building blocks of nutrition - Multivitamins, Omega-3’s, Proteins, and Probiotics.
As many as 91 percent vegetarians and 85 percent non-vegetarians among Indians were deficient in proteins according to the survey titled ‘Protein Consumption in the Diet of adult Indians Survey’ (PRODIGY). GNC India is endeavouring to build the cause of #BuildingBlocksofNutrition to raise awareness about missing blocks in nutrition amongst Indians. It refers to need for bridging the gap between insufficient nutrition intakes in our day to day diet with the assistance of health and nourishment products.
Piramal Pharma Solutions Names John
Fowler as its Chief Operating Officer
Piramal Pharma Solutions (PPS), part of Piramal Enterprises Limited, announce the appointment of John Fowler as its Chief Operating Officer. PPS is a leader in Integrated Contract Development and Manufacturing, with a global network of 12 development and manufacturing facilities across North America, Europe and Asia. PPS offers a comprehensive range of services including Drug Discovery Solutions, Process & Pharmaceutical Development services, Clinical Trial Supplies and Commercial supply of APIs and Finished dosage forms. As Chief Operating Officer, John will be responsible for Global Operations and Research & Development (R & D), and will play a lead role in ensuring that our customers consistently experience differentiated and excellent levels of service.
Most recently, John served as the Divisional CEO of the Global Fine Chemicals business at Johnson Matthey (JM), with responsibility for JM’s Services (Custom API Development, Manufacturing, Catalyst & Chiral Technologies), and Products (Generics Development and Manufacturing) portfolio. Before leading JM’s Fine Chemical Division, John held senior leadership roles in several business verticals at JM, including Pharmaceutical Materials and Services, Environmental Catalysts and Technologies, among others. John has a Chemical Engineering degree from Bucknell University and an MBA from St. Joseph University.
Piramal Pharma Solutions (PPS), part of Piramal Enterprises Limited, announce the appointment of John Fowler as its Chief Operating Officer. PPS is a leader in Integrated Contract Development and Manufacturing, with a global network of 12 development and manufacturing facilities across North America, Europe and Asia. PPS offers a comprehensive range of services including Drug Discovery Solutions, Process & Pharmaceutical Development services, Clinical Trial Supplies and Commercial supply of APIs and Finished dosage forms. As Chief Operating Officer, John will be responsible for Global Operations and Research & Development (R & D), and will play a lead role in ensuring that our customers consistently experience differentiated and excellent levels of service.
Most recently, John served as the Divisional CEO of the Global Fine Chemicals business at Johnson Matthey (JM), with responsibility for JM’s Services (Custom API Development, Manufacturing, Catalyst & Chiral Technologies), and Products (Generics Development and Manufacturing) portfolio. Before leading JM’s Fine Chemical Division, John held senior leadership roles in several business verticals at JM, including Pharmaceutical Materials and Services, Environmental Catalysts and Technologies, among others. John has a Chemical Engineering degree from Bucknell University and an MBA from St. Joseph University.
Aurigene and Curis Announce CA-170
Program Update
Aurigene Discovery Technologies Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories Ltd. and a specialized biotechnology company engaged in discovery and early clinical development of novel and best-in-class therapies to treat cancer and inflammatory diseases, announced plans to initiate a Phase 2 trial of CA-170, a PDL1-VISTA inhibitor to be conducted at sites in India. This was announced following the presentation of preliminary data from the initial 34 patients with cancer treated in the dose escalation stage of the Phase 1 trial of CA-170 at the European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO) 2017 Congress by Aurigene’s collaborator and licensee of CA-170, Curis, Inc, a biotechnology company focused on the development and commercialization of innovative and effective therapeutics for the treatment of cancer. The trial has been conducted in the U.S., South Korea and Spain. The Phase 2 trial is the result of the initial safety data and preliminary evidence of clinical benefit observed in the trial.
CA-170 is an oral small molecule targeting the immune checkpoints PDL1 and VISTA. Data presented at the ESMO 2017 conference represent the initial 34 patients treated to date in the dose escalation Phase 1 trial. 30 patients were naïve to prior immunotherapy treatment, while four patients had experienced prior treatment with approved anti-checkpoint antibodies. No dose limiting toxicities were observed at doses ranging from 50 mg to 800 mg once daily dosing examined thus far. CA-170 demonstrated good oral bioavailability and plasma drug levels were shown to increase in a near-linear manner with increasing doses. Evidence of immune modulation, including an increase in activated CD8+ T cells, was observed in patient blood and tumor biopsy samples examined following treatment. Of the 21 patients evaluable for disease assessment, 13 patients experienced disease stabilization. Four immunotherapy treatment-naïve patients treated with CA-170 experienced shrinkage of their tumors. Six patients remained on drug treatment beyond three months, including all four patients with tumor shrinkages. In addition, seven of the 34 patients remain on study and are continuing with treatment.
Aurigene Discovery Technologies Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories Ltd. and a specialized biotechnology company engaged in discovery and early clinical development of novel and best-in-class therapies to treat cancer and inflammatory diseases, announced plans to initiate a Phase 2 trial of CA-170, a PDL1-VISTA inhibitor to be conducted at sites in India. This was announced following the presentation of preliminary data from the initial 34 patients with cancer treated in the dose escalation stage of the Phase 1 trial of CA-170 at the European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO) 2017 Congress by Aurigene’s collaborator and licensee of CA-170, Curis, Inc, a biotechnology company focused on the development and commercialization of innovative and effective therapeutics for the treatment of cancer. The trial has been conducted in the U.S., South Korea and Spain. The Phase 2 trial is the result of the initial safety data and preliminary evidence of clinical benefit observed in the trial.
CA-170 is an oral small molecule targeting the immune checkpoints PDL1 and VISTA. Data presented at the ESMO 2017 conference represent the initial 34 patients treated to date in the dose escalation Phase 1 trial. 30 patients were naïve to prior immunotherapy treatment, while four patients had experienced prior treatment with approved anti-checkpoint antibodies. No dose limiting toxicities were observed at doses ranging from 50 mg to 800 mg once daily dosing examined thus far. CA-170 demonstrated good oral bioavailability and plasma drug levels were shown to increase in a near-linear manner with increasing doses. Evidence of immune modulation, including an increase in activated CD8+ T cells, was observed in patient blood and tumor biopsy samples examined following treatment. Of the 21 patients evaluable for disease assessment, 13 patients experienced disease stabilization. Four immunotherapy treatment-naïve patients treated with CA-170 experienced shrinkage of their tumors. Six patients remained on drug treatment beyond three months, including all four patients with tumor shrinkages. In addition, seven of the 34 patients remain on study and are continuing with treatment.
SCHOTT Integrates Big Data Solution
into Pharma Tubing Production
SCHOTT has recently integrated a specially developed big data solution into its pharmaceutical tubing production in India, replacing statistical sample-based quality assurance with 100 percent on-line measurement.
With the new IT-based process called perfeXion, process- and product- quality data of each individual glass tube is collected online and in real-time – an innovation that sets new standards in the pharmaceutical glass industry.
During the multi-layered process of pharmaceutical tubing production, statistical quality control is not 100% thorough. However, thanks to a unique big data approach, SCHOTT Glass India is now able to measure 100% of every single glass tube in production. Instead of selecting a few glass tubes from each batch for statistical quality control, the new perfeXion system measures the entire glass tube many times over as it is drawn from the melt. Lasers recognize deviations in diameter and wall thickness, for example, and camera and IR inspection systems can even detect the smallest inclusions in the glass. Around 100,000 data tags are generated every minute.
An integrated IT system, evaluating the continuous glass tube with real-time data measurements, calculates incidents of imperfection with such precision that it can later differentiate corresponding individual tubes which can then be sorted out. Each tube is checked again at its completion.
The system’s development took several years. Analyzing a curved tube surface zooming down a production line was a particularly difficult challenge. The effort, however, has paid off – not least because the data analysis is a source of insight into how production can be further optimized.
SCHOTT has recently integrated a specially developed big data solution into its pharmaceutical tubing production in India, replacing statistical sample-based quality assurance with 100 percent on-line measurement.
With the new IT-based process called perfeXion, process- and product- quality data of each individual glass tube is collected online and in real-time – an innovation that sets new standards in the pharmaceutical glass industry.
During the multi-layered process of pharmaceutical tubing production, statistical quality control is not 100% thorough. However, thanks to a unique big data approach, SCHOTT Glass India is now able to measure 100% of every single glass tube in production. Instead of selecting a few glass tubes from each batch for statistical quality control, the new perfeXion system measures the entire glass tube many times over as it is drawn from the melt. Lasers recognize deviations in diameter and wall thickness, for example, and camera and IR inspection systems can even detect the smallest inclusions in the glass. Around 100,000 data tags are generated every minute.
An integrated IT system, evaluating the continuous glass tube with real-time data measurements, calculates incidents of imperfection with such precision that it can later differentiate corresponding individual tubes which can then be sorted out. Each tube is checked again at its completion.
The system’s development took several years. Analyzing a curved tube surface zooming down a production line was a particularly difficult challenge. The effort, however, has paid off – not least because the data analysis is a source of insight into how production can be further optimized.
Align National TB Strategies with
Commitment to End TB by 2030: WHO
World Health Organization has called on countries in South-East Asia Region to build on recent momentum aimed at ending TB by 2030, commending their resolve to take action and urging all countries to review and align national plans with the Delhi Call to Action.
“The Region-wide momentum established to ‘bend the curve’ and end TB by 2030 is laudable. The Delhi Call for Action, issued by health ministers in March, demonstrates high-level awareness that business as usual is not enough, and that intensified efforts are needed. We have reached a critical consensus; the pressing need now is to translate commitment into action,” Dr Khetrapal Singh, Regional Director, WHO South-East Asia, said.
Across the Region, TB remains the largest cause of death and suffering due to any communicable disease among the most productive age groups. Although the Region accounts for approximately one quarter of the world’s population, it has nearly half the number of new TB cases and close to 40% of TB deaths globally. In recognition of TB’s outsized burden, accelerating progress towards the 2030 target – which requires a 90% reduction in TB deaths and 80% decrease in TB incidence – is now one of WHO South-East Asia Region’s Flagship Priority Areas of work.
As a critical first step in implementing recent commitments, Dr Khetrapal Singh emphasized the need for countries to align national plans with the 2030 target. “By reviewing and amending national TB plans countries will enhance their ability to mobilize and utilize resources efficiently. Good planning is key to establishing the foundations for success,” she said.
World Health Organization has called on countries in South-East Asia Region to build on recent momentum aimed at ending TB by 2030, commending their resolve to take action and urging all countries to review and align national plans with the Delhi Call to Action.
“The Region-wide momentum established to ‘bend the curve’ and end TB by 2030 is laudable. The Delhi Call for Action, issued by health ministers in March, demonstrates high-level awareness that business as usual is not enough, and that intensified efforts are needed. We have reached a critical consensus; the pressing need now is to translate commitment into action,” Dr Khetrapal Singh, Regional Director, WHO South-East Asia, said.
Across the Region, TB remains the largest cause of death and suffering due to any communicable disease among the most productive age groups. Although the Region accounts for approximately one quarter of the world’s population, it has nearly half the number of new TB cases and close to 40% of TB deaths globally. In recognition of TB’s outsized burden, accelerating progress towards the 2030 target – which requires a 90% reduction in TB deaths and 80% decrease in TB incidence – is now one of WHO South-East Asia Region’s Flagship Priority Areas of work.
As a critical first step in implementing recent commitments, Dr Khetrapal Singh emphasized the need for countries to align national plans with the 2030 target. “By reviewing and amending national TB plans countries will enhance their ability to mobilize and utilize resources efficiently. Good planning is key to establishing the foundations for success,” she said.
Merck to Join Forces with Project
Data Sphere
Merck, a leading science and technology company has announced that it will enter into a strategic collaboration with Project Data Sphere LLC, an independent, not-for-profit initiative of the CEO Roundtable on Cancer’s Life Sciences Consortium, to jointly lead the Global Oncology Big Data Alliance (GOBDA). This was announced at the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding yesterday, to coincide with Merck’s Award Ceremony announcing the recipients of its 2017 Grant for Oncology Innovation, held during the annual European Society for Medical Oncology Congress (ESMO 2017) in Madrid, Spain.
The GOBDA initiative has been formed to expand the open-access of de-identified patient data sets to further enhance analytical capabilities, by building on Project Data Sphere’s innovative digital platform. The current platform contains historical clinical trial data from almost 100,000 patients provided by multiple organizations, and access to this information has already led to new and potentially practice-changing findings. GOBDA will expand this platform to include rare tumor trial, experimental arm and real-world patient data. Leveraging these data with big data analytics will help to optimize clinical trials, build a registry of data and help to enable advancement in the understanding of cancer treatment globally, with the mission to address the significant unmet needs in this field. In addition, by unleashing analytical power and big data to study and learn how to better manage rare but serious immune-mediated adverse events, institutes and industry will be able to assist regulators to adapt these new learnings into treatment guidelines. As well as establishing models to help enable early adverse event identification and improved patient outcomes.
Merck, a leading science and technology company has announced that it will enter into a strategic collaboration with Project Data Sphere LLC, an independent, not-for-profit initiative of the CEO Roundtable on Cancer’s Life Sciences Consortium, to jointly lead the Global Oncology Big Data Alliance (GOBDA). This was announced at the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding yesterday, to coincide with Merck’s Award Ceremony announcing the recipients of its 2017 Grant for Oncology Innovation, held during the annual European Society for Medical Oncology Congress (ESMO 2017) in Madrid, Spain.
The GOBDA initiative has been formed to expand the open-access of de-identified patient data sets to further enhance analytical capabilities, by building on Project Data Sphere’s innovative digital platform. The current platform contains historical clinical trial data from almost 100,000 patients provided by multiple organizations, and access to this information has already led to new and potentially practice-changing findings. GOBDA will expand this platform to include rare tumor trial, experimental arm and real-world patient data. Leveraging these data with big data analytics will help to optimize clinical trials, build a registry of data and help to enable advancement in the understanding of cancer treatment globally, with the mission to address the significant unmet needs in this field. In addition, by unleashing analytical power and big data to study and learn how to better manage rare but serious immune-mediated adverse events, institutes and industry will be able to assist regulators to adapt these new learnings into treatment guidelines. As well as establishing models to help enable early adverse event identification and improved patient outcomes.
IIL Forays into Herbal Market with 'Zuspray'
Hyderabad-based Indian Immunological Limited (IIL), a leading player in human and animal health has launched its first herbal product 'Zuspray' for animals. The launch of this herbal topical spray marks IIL's entry into the Rs 480 crores valued domestic animal health herbal market. The herbal ingredients in ‘Zuspray’ will help in the treatment of all types of open wounds including surgical wounds.
IIL has forayed into the herbal market with Zuspray. This will expand IIL’s target market by a diversification strategy of entering into the herbal market. In the coming years IIL will plan to enrich their portfolio with few more products related to animal health care particularly the productivity of the animal. Zuspray is a reliable wound healer for all animals. The product will be available in 100 ml spray bottles across all retail shops in India which caters to animal health products.
Hyderabad-based Indian Immunological Limited (IIL), a leading player in human and animal health has launched its first herbal product 'Zuspray' for animals. The launch of this herbal topical spray marks IIL's entry into the Rs 480 crores valued domestic animal health herbal market. The herbal ingredients in ‘Zuspray’ will help in the treatment of all types of open wounds including surgical wounds.
IIL has forayed into the herbal market with Zuspray. This will expand IIL’s target market by a diversification strategy of entering into the herbal market. In the coming years IIL will plan to enrich their portfolio with few more products related to animal health care particularly the productivity of the animal. Zuspray is a reliable wound healer for all animals. The product will be available in 100 ml spray bottles across all retail shops in India which caters to animal health products.
Dr. Reddy's Launches USP (XL) in the
US Market
Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories Ltd. announced that it has launched Bupropion Hydrochloride Extended-Release Tablets, USP (XL), 150 mg and 300 mg, a therapeutic equivalent generic version of Wellbutrin XL (Bupropion Hydrochloride Extended-Release) Tablets, approved by the US Food & Drug Administration (USFDA).
The Wellbutrin XL brand and generic had US sales of approximately USD 754 million MAT for the most recent twelve months ending in July 2017 according to IMS Health.
Dr. Reddy’s Bupropion Hydrochloride Extended-Release Tablets, USP (XL), 150 mg and 300 mg, are each available in bottle count sizes of 30, 90 and 500.
Wellbutrin XL is a trademark of GlaxoSmithKline LLC.
Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories Ltd. announced that it has launched Bupropion Hydrochloride Extended-Release Tablets, USP (XL), 150 mg and 300 mg, a therapeutic equivalent generic version of Wellbutrin XL (Bupropion Hydrochloride Extended-Release) Tablets, approved by the US Food & Drug Administration (USFDA).
The Wellbutrin XL brand and generic had US sales of approximately USD 754 million MAT for the most recent twelve months ending in July 2017 according to IMS Health.
Dr. Reddy’s Bupropion Hydrochloride Extended-Release Tablets, USP (XL), 150 mg and 300 mg, are each available in bottle count sizes of 30, 90 and 500.
Wellbutrin XL is a trademark of GlaxoSmithKline LLC.
Dr. Reddy's & CHD Bioscience Ink
Commercialization Deal
Dr Reddy's Laboratories Ltdand CHD Bioscience Inc., a privately-held biopharmaceutical company, announced a global licensing agreement for the clinical development and commercialization of Dr. Reddy’s phase III clinical trial candidate, DFA-02. It is intended to be used for the prevention of surgical site infections, following non-emergency, elective colorectal surgery. Phase II studies for DFA-02 have been successfully completed, and the product will be transitioning to pivotal Phase III registration studies.
Under the terms of the agreement, Dr. Reddy's would receive equity in CHD valued at $30 million upon an IPO of CHD or a minimum of $30 million in cash within 18 months of execution of the agreement. Dr. Reddy’s will also receive additional milestone payments of $40 million upon USFDA approval. In addition, CHD will pay Dr. Reddy's double-digit royalties on sales and commercial milestones.
Commenting on the signing of the agreement, Anil Namboodiripad, Ph.D., Senior Vice President, Proprietary Products, and President, Promius Pharma, a wholly owned subsidiary of Dr. Reddy’s, said, "We are pleased to announce our partnership with CHD Bioscience. We feel that the needs of patients undergoing surgery will be well served by CHD, given their strong focus on offering targeted solutions for surgical site infections. DFA-02 has demonstrated promising results in clinical studies, and we are excited about the prospect of CHD undertaking further development and commercialization of the asset."
"This transaction advances our strategy to become a world leader in the targeted prevention and treatment of drug-resistant infections. Building on our development work with VERIOX™ in orthopedics and wound care, DFA-02 potentially extends our ability to help patients in the surgical setting who may be at high risk of infections without exposing the patient to large amounts of systemic antibiotics," said Michael Handley, director and chief executive officer of CHD Bioscience. "DFA-02 fits our strategy of targeting the site of the infection rather than the whole patient, and we are pleased to be continuing the great work that Dr. Reddy's has started."
Dr Reddy's Laboratories Ltdand CHD Bioscience Inc., a privately-held biopharmaceutical company, announced a global licensing agreement for the clinical development and commercialization of Dr. Reddy’s phase III clinical trial candidate, DFA-02. It is intended to be used for the prevention of surgical site infections, following non-emergency, elective colorectal surgery. Phase II studies for DFA-02 have been successfully completed, and the product will be transitioning to pivotal Phase III registration studies.
Under the terms of the agreement, Dr. Reddy's would receive equity in CHD valued at $30 million upon an IPO of CHD or a minimum of $30 million in cash within 18 months of execution of the agreement. Dr. Reddy’s will also receive additional milestone payments of $40 million upon USFDA approval. In addition, CHD will pay Dr. Reddy's double-digit royalties on sales and commercial milestones.
Commenting on the signing of the agreement, Anil Namboodiripad, Ph.D., Senior Vice President, Proprietary Products, and President, Promius Pharma, a wholly owned subsidiary of Dr. Reddy’s, said, "We are pleased to announce our partnership with CHD Bioscience. We feel that the needs of patients undergoing surgery will be well served by CHD, given their strong focus on offering targeted solutions for surgical site infections. DFA-02 has demonstrated promising results in clinical studies, and we are excited about the prospect of CHD undertaking further development and commercialization of the asset."
"This transaction advances our strategy to become a world leader in the targeted prevention and treatment of drug-resistant infections. Building on our development work with VERIOX™ in orthopedics and wound care, DFA-02 potentially extends our ability to help patients in the surgical setting who may be at high risk of infections without exposing the patient to large amounts of systemic antibiotics," said Michael Handley, director and chief executive officer of CHD Bioscience. "DFA-02 fits our strategy of targeting the site of the infection rather than the whole patient, and we are pleased to be continuing the great work that Dr. Reddy's has started."
PolyPid Completes Enrollment in Phase
Ib/II Study of D-PLEX
PolyPidLtd.,acbiopharmacompanywithaninitialfocus ontheprevention and treatment of post-surgical site infections, has announced the completion of enrollment in its Phase Ib /II study of D-PLEX (Doxycycline / Polymer-Lipid Encapsulation Matrix), the lead product candidate, for the prevention of post- cardiac surgery sternal infection. D-PLEX is a secured antibiotic drug reservoir that provides a safe and effective local anti bacterial prevention and treatment measure during surgical procedures.
Sternal infection following cardiac surgery is an unmet medical need and one of the most significant complications following open cardiac surgery, which, according to known literature, has a mortality rate of up to 40 percent.
The Phase Ib /II study of D-PLEX is a prospective, multi-center, two-part trial evaluating the safety and efficacy of D-PLEX in the prevention of sternal infection post-cardiac surgery. The study is being conducted in Israel on a total of 80 patients. PolyPid expects first line data on all patients in this trial to be available by the end of 2017. The Company intends to seek regulatory approvals in the U.S. and Europe in 2018 to conduct a Phase III trial of D-PLEX in prevention of post-cardiac surgery sternal infection.
To date PolyPid has treated more than 100 patients with its PLEX based anti-infective products. Preliminary data from studies in orthopedic indications showed no infections in the treated organ. Moreover, D-PLEX was safe with no adverse events related to the product.
PolyPidLtd.,acbiopharmacompanywithaninitialfocus ontheprevention and treatment of post-surgical site infections, has announced the completion of enrollment in its Phase Ib /II study of D-PLEX (Doxycycline / Polymer-Lipid Encapsulation Matrix), the lead product candidate, for the prevention of post- cardiac surgery sternal infection. D-PLEX is a secured antibiotic drug reservoir that provides a safe and effective local anti bacterial prevention and treatment measure during surgical procedures.
Sternal infection following cardiac surgery is an unmet medical need and one of the most significant complications following open cardiac surgery, which, according to known literature, has a mortality rate of up to 40 percent.
The Phase Ib /II study of D-PLEX is a prospective, multi-center, two-part trial evaluating the safety and efficacy of D-PLEX in the prevention of sternal infection post-cardiac surgery. The study is being conducted in Israel on a total of 80 patients. PolyPid expects first line data on all patients in this trial to be available by the end of 2017. The Company intends to seek regulatory approvals in the U.S. and Europe in 2018 to conduct a Phase III trial of D-PLEX in prevention of post-cardiac surgery sternal infection.
To date PolyPid has treated more than 100 patients with its PLEX based anti-infective products. Preliminary data from studies in orthopedic indications showed no infections in the treated organ. Moreover, D-PLEX was safe with no adverse events related to the product.
PharmaLytica 2017
UBM India, organisers of CPhI and P-MEC India, the leading global pharma trade show and conference, hosted the 4th Edition of PharmaLytica 2017 on 11th – 12th August. The two day event was inaugurated by Chief Guest Shri Jayesh Ranjan, Principal Secretary to Government of Telangana, Industries & Commerce (I&C) Department & Information Technology, Electronics and Communications (ITE&C) Department, in the presence of Guests of Honour, Dr. Rao Vadlamudi, President, Indian Pharmaceutical Association (IPA), Shri Madan Mohan Reddy, Chairman, Pharmexcil and Director, Aurobindo Pharma, Dr Ravi Uday Bhaskar, Director General, Pharmexcil, Mr. Avinash Talwar, Director & Head – Global Sourcing, Dr Reddy's Laboratories, Mr. Chakravarthi AVPS, Managing Director at Ecobliss India Pvt Limited, Mr. Yogesh Mudras, Managing Director, UBM India and Mr Rahul Deshpande, Group Director, UBM India, at the HITEX Exhibition Center.
PharmaLytica 2017 is considered to be an ideal platform for pharma professionals from the Analytical & Bio Tech, Lab equipments & Lab Chemicals, Pharma Machinery and Packaging sub-sectors, to keep abreast with innovations in the growing businesses of India’s pharma industry. Over 100 exhibiting companies have participated for the first time at the show, reiterating its acknowledged pole position in the South.
The 4th edition of the expo has witnessed participation from over 150 exhibitors from across the country including notable industry players such as Standard Group of Companies, Sanitt Equipment & Machines, Gandhi Automations, Mack Pharmatech, S.K. Pharma Machinery, Sterimax Engineering, Utopia Optovision, Rahul Enterprises, Chemipack India, Shree Naina Glass, Komal Industries, Allpharm Technologies, Subodh Engineering, Kirloskar Pneumatic, Integrated Cleanroom Technology, Accura Pharmaquip Inos Technologies among others.
On the day one of the PharmaLytica, a series of insightful sessions were organized to discuss the growth phase of the Indian pharma industry, the challenges it faces and how it can again truly distinguish itself in the global pharma industry in the years to come. Having made a mark in the bulk drug sector, Indian pharma companies have also started focusing on R&D, drug inventions and investing in new age technology and machinery for an all round, faster and efficient growth.
UBM India, organisers of CPhI and P-MEC India, the leading global pharma trade show and conference, hosted the 4th Edition of PharmaLytica 2017 on 11th – 12th August. The two day event was inaugurated by Chief Guest Shri Jayesh Ranjan, Principal Secretary to Government of Telangana, Industries & Commerce (I&C) Department & Information Technology, Electronics and Communications (ITE&C) Department, in the presence of Guests of Honour, Dr. Rao Vadlamudi, President, Indian Pharmaceutical Association (IPA), Shri Madan Mohan Reddy, Chairman, Pharmexcil and Director, Aurobindo Pharma, Dr Ravi Uday Bhaskar, Director General, Pharmexcil, Mr. Avinash Talwar, Director & Head – Global Sourcing, Dr Reddy's Laboratories, Mr. Chakravarthi AVPS, Managing Director at Ecobliss India Pvt Limited, Mr. Yogesh Mudras, Managing Director, UBM India and Mr Rahul Deshpande, Group Director, UBM India, at the HITEX Exhibition Center.
PharmaLytica 2017 is considered to be an ideal platform for pharma professionals from the Analytical & Bio Tech, Lab equipments & Lab Chemicals, Pharma Machinery and Packaging sub-sectors, to keep abreast with innovations in the growing businesses of India’s pharma industry. Over 100 exhibiting companies have participated for the first time at the show, reiterating its acknowledged pole position in the South.
The 4th edition of the expo has witnessed participation from over 150 exhibitors from across the country including notable industry players such as Standard Group of Companies, Sanitt Equipment & Machines, Gandhi Automations, Mack Pharmatech, S.K. Pharma Machinery, Sterimax Engineering, Utopia Optovision, Rahul Enterprises, Chemipack India, Shree Naina Glass, Komal Industries, Allpharm Technologies, Subodh Engineering, Kirloskar Pneumatic, Integrated Cleanroom Technology, Accura Pharmaquip Inos Technologies among others.
On the day one of the PharmaLytica, a series of insightful sessions were organized to discuss the growth phase of the Indian pharma industry, the challenges it faces and how it can again truly distinguish itself in the global pharma industry in the years to come. Having made a mark in the bulk drug sector, Indian pharma companies have also started focusing on R&D, drug inventions and investing in new age technology and machinery for an all round, faster and efficient growth.
Praj Recognised by IIMM for its Supply Chain Management Practices
Praj Industries, a global process solutions company, has been recognised for its supply chain management (SCM) practices by Indian Institute of Materials Management (IIMM). Praj has been awarded the “Best Supply Chain Management Practices” in the large manufacturing sector category at the 4th Annual Awards held at Sheraton Grand Pune.
IIMM is a national apex body representing a wide spectrum of professionals engaged in various facets of Material Management such as planning, sourcing, logistics & supply chain management. It has a network of 51 branches and 19 chapters and IIMM Pune is the oldest branch established way back in 1966. IIMM Pune started First Logistics and Supply Chain Management Awards in 2014 and these awards have gained widespread acceptability in India Inc.
The 4th Annual Award recognizes an organisation that has demonstrated superior commitment, innovative strategic leadership and significant supply chain management/logistics contributions within the industry. It had esteemed jury comprising industry stalwarts and they unanimously selected Praj for implementing effective supply chain management using powerful SCM solutions.
Praj has been focussing on real time monitoring of savings by implementing various techniques such as partnering with the suppliers, pivoting alternate suppliers and smart logistics initiatives. The company also applies various innovative strategies for international sourcing such as Best Cost Countries for various commodities, leveraging embassies and trade bodies, sourcing through trade bodies and establishing Tri-party agreement ‘We win together (Three handshake)’ for leveraging geographic advantage. Under the green partner program, Praj has retained BSI to do audit training and certification of partners for green SCM initiative.
Praj Industries, a global process solutions company, has been recognised for its supply chain management (SCM) practices by Indian Institute of Materials Management (IIMM). Praj has been awarded the “Best Supply Chain Management Practices” in the large manufacturing sector category at the 4th Annual Awards held at Sheraton Grand Pune.
IIMM is a national apex body representing a wide spectrum of professionals engaged in various facets of Material Management such as planning, sourcing, logistics & supply chain management. It has a network of 51 branches and 19 chapters and IIMM Pune is the oldest branch established way back in 1966. IIMM Pune started First Logistics and Supply Chain Management Awards in 2014 and these awards have gained widespread acceptability in India Inc.
The 4th Annual Award recognizes an organisation that has demonstrated superior commitment, innovative strategic leadership and significant supply chain management/logistics contributions within the industry. It had esteemed jury comprising industry stalwarts and they unanimously selected Praj for implementing effective supply chain management using powerful SCM solutions.
Praj has been focussing on real time monitoring of savings by implementing various techniques such as partnering with the suppliers, pivoting alternate suppliers and smart logistics initiatives. The company also applies various innovative strategies for international sourcing such as Best Cost Countries for various commodities, leveraging embassies and trade bodies, sourcing through trade bodies and establishing Tri-party agreement ‘We win together (Three handshake)’ for leveraging geographic advantage. Under the green partner program, Praj has retained BSI to do audit training and certification of partners for green SCM initiative.
BASF Expands Pharmaceutical Technical Lab
BASF India Limited, subsidiary of BASF SE has inaugurated its pharma technical lab at its Innovation Campus Asia Pacific, located in Navi Mumbai, India. Named "BASF Pharma Solutions Lab", the facility will cater to the fast-growing pharmaceutical market in South Asia, especially generic drug manufacturing, which accounts for more than 70 percent of the sector in India.
This pharma technical lab is the fifth application lab in BASF's global innovation network for pharmaceutical solutions, which also includes labs in Germany, North America, South America, and Shanghai, China.
The 200-square-meter application lab boasts technical capabilities in creating and delivering BASF's functional solutions for drug formulation, especially in solubilization and instant & modified release. This will enable pharmaceutical manufacturers to solve drug formulation challenges such as developing fixed dose combinations, taste masking and temperature- or moisture-sensitive drugs.
BASF has been providing technical services to customers in drug formulation and manufacturing in South Asia since 2008. The upgraded pharmaceutical application facility is located within Innovation Campus Asia Pacific (Mumbai), BASF's biggest research and development (R&D) investment in South Asia. Inaugurated in March of this year, the Innovation Campus Asia Pacific also houses the company’s other existing scientific disciplines. This creates the opportunity for innovation synergies to be able to meet the unique technological needs of diverse customers across South Asia.
BASF India Limited, subsidiary of BASF SE has inaugurated its pharma technical lab at its Innovation Campus Asia Pacific, located in Navi Mumbai, India. Named "BASF Pharma Solutions Lab", the facility will cater to the fast-growing pharmaceutical market in South Asia, especially generic drug manufacturing, which accounts for more than 70 percent of the sector in India.
This pharma technical lab is the fifth application lab in BASF's global innovation network for pharmaceutical solutions, which also includes labs in Germany, North America, South America, and Shanghai, China.
The 200-square-meter application lab boasts technical capabilities in creating and delivering BASF's functional solutions for drug formulation, especially in solubilization and instant & modified release. This will enable pharmaceutical manufacturers to solve drug formulation challenges such as developing fixed dose combinations, taste masking and temperature- or moisture-sensitive drugs.
BASF has been providing technical services to customers in drug formulation and manufacturing in South Asia since 2008. The upgraded pharmaceutical application facility is located within Innovation Campus Asia Pacific (Mumbai), BASF's biggest research and development (R&D) investment in South Asia. Inaugurated in March of this year, the Innovation Campus Asia Pacific also houses the company’s other existing scientific disciplines. This creates the opportunity for innovation synergies to be able to meet the unique technological needs of diverse customers across South Asia.
Dr Rao V S V Vadlamudi Elected President of Commonwealth Pharmacists Association
Dr. Rao Vadlamudi, President of Indian Pharmaceutical Association (IPA), has been elected as President of Commonwealth Pharmacists Association (CPA) for the year 2017 – 19 at CPA Conference held at Hyatt Regency, Sydney, Australia from 28 – 30, July 2017. Dr. Rao Vadlamudi is the second Indian professional to be elected as CPA President after a gap of 30 years. The first CPA President from India was late Dr. J.N. Banerjee during the period 1982 – 1987. The CPA is an organization of Commonwealth professional pharmaceutical bodies and individual members with an objective to empowering Pharmacists to improve health and well-being throughout the Commonwealth there by adding quality to the range of services offered by the pharmacists with head quarter based at United Kingdom.
Dr. Rao Vadlamudi has been President of IPA, the national body of pharmaceutical professionals in India for the period 2014 – 18. During this period, he ably led the Association in organizing hugely successful international and national events including the 61st International Pharmaceutical Students’ Federation (IPSF) World Congress in 2015. During this period, he also initiated advocacy exercises with the Indian government, pushing forth policy inputs and documents, furthering the cause of pharmacists and pharmacy profession in the country. Under his tutelage, in December 2016, IPA went on to organize another hugely successful mega event – the Indian Pharmaceutical Congress (IPC) that witnessed participation of over 10,000 national and international delegates from various facets of the profession. His active partnering with leaders of international organizations like FIP, FAPA and WHPA has helped him espouse some of the raging health care issues including tackling Antimicrobial Resistance and Campaign against Drug Counterfeiting globally. An academician par excellence and an eminent scientist with impeccable knowledge base, Dr. Rao Vadlamudi has also had an illustrious stint with the industry where he has led senior scientists in cutting – edge drug discovery programs in companies like Hoechst India Ltd (Sanofi) and Nektar Therapeutics India Limited.
Dr. Rao Vadlamudi, President of Indian Pharmaceutical Association (IPA), has been elected as President of Commonwealth Pharmacists Association (CPA) for the year 2017 – 19 at CPA Conference held at Hyatt Regency, Sydney, Australia from 28 – 30, July 2017. Dr. Rao Vadlamudi is the second Indian professional to be elected as CPA President after a gap of 30 years. The first CPA President from India was late Dr. J.N. Banerjee during the period 1982 – 1987. The CPA is an organization of Commonwealth professional pharmaceutical bodies and individual members with an objective to empowering Pharmacists to improve health and well-being throughout the Commonwealth there by adding quality to the range of services offered by the pharmacists with head quarter based at United Kingdom.
Dr. Rao Vadlamudi has been President of IPA, the national body of pharmaceutical professionals in India for the period 2014 – 18. During this period, he ably led the Association in organizing hugely successful international and national events including the 61st International Pharmaceutical Students’ Federation (IPSF) World Congress in 2015. During this period, he also initiated advocacy exercises with the Indian government, pushing forth policy inputs and documents, furthering the cause of pharmacists and pharmacy profession in the country. Under his tutelage, in December 2016, IPA went on to organize another hugely successful mega event – the Indian Pharmaceutical Congress (IPC) that witnessed participation of over 10,000 national and international delegates from various facets of the profession. His active partnering with leaders of international organizations like FIP, FAPA and WHPA has helped him espouse some of the raging health care issues including tackling Antimicrobial Resistance and Campaign against Drug Counterfeiting globally. An academician par excellence and an eminent scientist with impeccable knowledge base, Dr. Rao Vadlamudi has also had an illustrious stint with the industry where he has led senior scientists in cutting – edge drug discovery programs in companies like Hoechst India Ltd (Sanofi) and Nektar Therapeutics India Limited.
Dr. Reddy's Announces Commercialization
of Vozet in India
Dr.Reddy's Laboratories Ltd announced today the commercilazation of Vozet Tablets in India, indicated for the treatment of allergic Rhinitis and chronic Urticaria.
The Vozet Tablets contain Levocetirizine 5 mg, and are available in a strip size of 10.
The anti-histamine market in India had sales of INR 1038cr MAT for the most recent twelve months ended in March 2017, according to IMS ORG. Dr. Reddy's will further strengthen its anti-allergy portfolio with the addition of Vozet.
Dr.Reddy's Laboratories Ltd announced today the commercilazation of Vozet Tablets in India, indicated for the treatment of allergic Rhinitis and chronic Urticaria.
The Vozet Tablets contain Levocetirizine 5 mg, and are available in a strip size of 10.
The anti-histamine market in India had sales of INR 1038cr MAT for the most recent twelve months ended in March 2017, according to IMS ORG. Dr. Reddy's will further strengthen its anti-allergy portfolio with the addition of Vozet.
Unprecedented QC Standards for
Indian Pharma Tubing Industry
In an unprecedented development, SCHOTT India has presented new technical specifications to achieve unparalleled quality control standards for its FIOLAX pharmaceutical glass tubing manufactured in India. By harnessing big data through the implementation of its perfeXion system, SCHOTT has moved from a statistical sample-based quality-control process to one that inspects 100 percent of the tubing. As a result, SCHOTT now offers an improved product with superior auditability and traceability for the pharmaceutical industry. These improvements are anchored in the company's new specifications and thus made visible for customers globally.
The new process has been introduced in all SCHOTT plants worldwide and will be applied to all FIOLAX tubes manufactured in its Jambusar plant from July 1, 2017. These technical standards are the culmination of years of in-house research into the development of tubing geometry measurement, suitable for SCHOTT's fast-paced production environment. The tubing, used for vials, syringes, cartridges, and ampoules, can now be produced at an even higher quality from the beginning, even for parameters such as the inside diameter, which previously were difficult to measure. By improving the measurement of visual quality characteristics as well, SCHOTT can offer individual specifications tailored even closer to customers' requirements.
Indian pharmaceuticals market is in the midst of major developments and dynamic changes. According to industry reports, it is currently growing at double-digit rates per year. Pharmaceutical packaging industry gets directly impacted by the growing needs of the pharmaceutical industry.
In addition to tightening the tolerances for outside diameter, inside diameter, and wall thickness, we have now added specifications for the precise measurement of circularity, siding, and straightness in these new standards. Furthermore, the minimum length restrictions for outside diameter and wall thickness tolerance deviations have been completely eliminated, the maximum permissible airline width has been reduced from 0.1 mm to 0.08 mm, and an extractables profile for the glass composition has been added for the first time .
In an unprecedented development, SCHOTT India has presented new technical specifications to achieve unparalleled quality control standards for its FIOLAX pharmaceutical glass tubing manufactured in India. By harnessing big data through the implementation of its perfeXion system, SCHOTT has moved from a statistical sample-based quality-control process to one that inspects 100 percent of the tubing. As a result, SCHOTT now offers an improved product with superior auditability and traceability for the pharmaceutical industry. These improvements are anchored in the company's new specifications and thus made visible for customers globally.
The new process has been introduced in all SCHOTT plants worldwide and will be applied to all FIOLAX tubes manufactured in its Jambusar plant from July 1, 2017. These technical standards are the culmination of years of in-house research into the development of tubing geometry measurement, suitable for SCHOTT's fast-paced production environment. The tubing, used for vials, syringes, cartridges, and ampoules, can now be produced at an even higher quality from the beginning, even for parameters such as the inside diameter, which previously were difficult to measure. By improving the measurement of visual quality characteristics as well, SCHOTT can offer individual specifications tailored even closer to customers' requirements.
Indian pharmaceuticals market is in the midst of major developments and dynamic changes. According to industry reports, it is currently growing at double-digit rates per year. Pharmaceutical packaging industry gets directly impacted by the growing needs of the pharmaceutical industry.
In addition to tightening the tolerances for outside diameter, inside diameter, and wall thickness, we have now added specifications for the precise measurement of circularity, siding, and straightness in these new standards. Furthermore, the minimum length restrictions for outside diameter and wall thickness tolerance deviations have been completely eliminated, the maximum permissible airline width has been reduced from 0.1 mm to 0.08 mm, and an extractables profile for the glass composition has been added for the first time .
BASF Receives Recommendation
from WHO for Interceptor G2
BASF has received a recommendation from the World Health Organization (WHO) for Interceptor G2, along-lasting insecticide-treated mosquito net (LN) based on chlorfenapyr. Chlorfenapyr is a completely new insecticide class for combating mosquitoes for public health. This is the first WHO recommendation for a product based on a new insecticide class in more than 30 years.
Working with the Innovative Vector Control Consortium (IVCC) and the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine in a collaboration lasting over a decade, BASF's scientists successfully repurposed chlorfenapyr to be effective on mosquito nets and meet stringent WHO performance thresholds for public health.
A second chlorfenapyr product, an indoor residual spray named Sylando 240SC, is also in the final phases of WHO evaluation. Around the world, every two minutes a child dies from malaria and there are more than 200 million new cases every year. Malaria is also a major cause of global poverty and its burden is greatest among the most vulnerable.
Long-lasting insecticide-treated mosquito nets (LN) and indoor residual sprays (IRS) are the cornerstones of malaria prevention, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. But 60 countries have already reported resistance to at least one class of insecticide used in them. Part of the problem is that there were previously only four WHO-recommended insecticide classes for adult mosquito control: Only one of them, the pyrethroid class, was recommended for LNs. Continual use of the same insecticides enabled the highly-adaptable mosquito to develop significant levels of resistance.
BASF has received a recommendation from the World Health Organization (WHO) for Interceptor G2, along-lasting insecticide-treated mosquito net (LN) based on chlorfenapyr. Chlorfenapyr is a completely new insecticide class for combating mosquitoes for public health. This is the first WHO recommendation for a product based on a new insecticide class in more than 30 years.
Working with the Innovative Vector Control Consortium (IVCC) and the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine in a collaboration lasting over a decade, BASF's scientists successfully repurposed chlorfenapyr to be effective on mosquito nets and meet stringent WHO performance thresholds for public health.
A second chlorfenapyr product, an indoor residual spray named Sylando 240SC, is also in the final phases of WHO evaluation. Around the world, every two minutes a child dies from malaria and there are more than 200 million new cases every year. Malaria is also a major cause of global poverty and its burden is greatest among the most vulnerable.
Long-lasting insecticide-treated mosquito nets (LN) and indoor residual sprays (IRS) are the cornerstones of malaria prevention, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. But 60 countries have already reported resistance to at least one class of insecticide used in them. Part of the problem is that there were previously only four WHO-recommended insecticide classes for adult mosquito control: Only one of them, the pyrethroid class, was recommended for LNs. Continual use of the same insecticides enabled the highly-adaptable mosquito to develop significant levels of resistance.
American Academy of Ophthalmology
Collaborate with Lupin
The American Academy of Ophthalmology and Pharma major Lupin Limited (Lupin) has announced an agreement that would seek to expand and enhance continuing ophthalmic education in India. The effort is expected to reach 3,000 ophthalmologists in the country.
The collaboration will provide ophthalmologists access to several clinical education tools including the Academy's flagship clinical education resource, the Ophthalmic News and Education Network. The World's largest online compendium of ophthalmic knowledge, the ONE Network is accessed by approximately 130,000 users every month.
The Academy typically offers access to the ONE Network and its other educational resources as a benefit of Academy membership as well as to ophthalmologists in other countries through a special application. The collaboration provides a new channel for distributing this content in India. The Academy also distributes its content in India to 16,000 members of the All India Ophthalmological Society. Through this partnership, over 3,000 ophthalmologists across the country will be provided online access to knowledge repository, which includes journals and videos to help practitioners stay abreast of the latest developments in the space.
The American Academy of Ophthalmology and Pharma major Lupin Limited (Lupin) has announced an agreement that would seek to expand and enhance continuing ophthalmic education in India. The effort is expected to reach 3,000 ophthalmologists in the country.
The collaboration will provide ophthalmologists access to several clinical education tools including the Academy's flagship clinical education resource, the Ophthalmic News and Education Network. The World's largest online compendium of ophthalmic knowledge, the ONE Network is accessed by approximately 130,000 users every month.
The Academy typically offers access to the ONE Network and its other educational resources as a benefit of Academy membership as well as to ophthalmologists in other countries through a special application. The collaboration provides a new channel for distributing this content in India. The Academy also distributes its content in India to 16,000 members of the All India Ophthalmological Society. Through this partnership, over 3,000 ophthalmologists across the country will be provided online access to knowledge repository, which includes journals and videos to help practitioners stay abreast of the latest developments in the space.
GNH India Clears Audit to Trade
Orphan Drugs with UK
GNH India, a global source for priority pharmaceuticals, is amongst the handful of Indian companies to clear an audit from one of the largest UK pharmaceutical distribution companies. Armed with a WHO-GDP (Good Distribution Practice) certification, GNH India has entered a two-way partnership with the UK based company for the trade in life-saving drugs into their respective countries.
Through this new development, accessibility to medicines for the treatment of an array of diseases is now not just plausible; but extremely possible. Orphan drugs such as Ferripox (used in the treatment of iron overload in Thalassaemia major patients), Raxone (used in the treatment of visually impaired adolescents and adults), Trientine (used to treat a rare but growing rate of Wilson's disease) and Mitocin (a drug used to treat a range of cancers) are now available to the Indian population.
Commenting on this, Dr. Piyush Gupta, Associate Director, GNH India said, "With a change in lifestyle and increased travel abroad, India's population has become a crucible for various diseases. Even though we have seen a marked increase in incidences of rare diseases, our pharmaceutical industry is yet to catch up in response to this growth trajectory. At GNH India, we had ensured to follow due protocol by applying and receiving the WHO-GDP certification well before hand. This has led to a high success rate in terms of clearing audits from various countries- the UK is the latest." The WHO-GDP certification ensures that procurement, purchasing, storage, distribution, transportation, repackaging, relabelling, documentation and record-keeping practices are met with stringent protocols.
GNH India exports to more than 180 countries and has 135,000 product lines to choose from. With this new development, GNH India has forayed into the UK market as a legal distributor of rare and life-saving drugs.
GNH India, a global source for priority pharmaceuticals, is amongst the handful of Indian companies to clear an audit from one of the largest UK pharmaceutical distribution companies. Armed with a WHO-GDP (Good Distribution Practice) certification, GNH India has entered a two-way partnership with the UK based company for the trade in life-saving drugs into their respective countries.
Through this new development, accessibility to medicines for the treatment of an array of diseases is now not just plausible; but extremely possible. Orphan drugs such as Ferripox (used in the treatment of iron overload in Thalassaemia major patients), Raxone (used in the treatment of visually impaired adolescents and adults), Trientine (used to treat a rare but growing rate of Wilson's disease) and Mitocin (a drug used to treat a range of cancers) are now available to the Indian population.
Commenting on this, Dr. Piyush Gupta, Associate Director, GNH India said, "With a change in lifestyle and increased travel abroad, India's population has become a crucible for various diseases. Even though we have seen a marked increase in incidences of rare diseases, our pharmaceutical industry is yet to catch up in response to this growth trajectory. At GNH India, we had ensured to follow due protocol by applying and receiving the WHO-GDP certification well before hand. This has led to a high success rate in terms of clearing audits from various countries- the UK is the latest." The WHO-GDP certification ensures that procurement, purchasing, storage, distribution, transportation, repackaging, relabelling, documentation and record-keeping practices are met with stringent protocols.
GNH India exports to more than 180 countries and has 135,000 product lines to choose from. With this new development, GNH India has forayed into the UK market as a legal distributor of rare and life-saving drugs.
Sayre Signs Exclusive License and
Distribution Deal with Navidea
Sayre Therapeutics with a portfolio of oncology and immunology focused commercial products, has entered into an exclusive license agreement with Navidea Biopharmaceuticals, Inc, a company focused on the development and commercialization of precision immunodiagnostic agents and immunotherapeutic, for the development and commercialization of Tc 99m tilmanocept in India.
The receptor-targeted, radiopharmaceutical imaging agent was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in 2013 and by the European Medicines Agency in November 2014 under the brand name LYMPHOSEEK. Tc 99m Tilmanocept is already commercialized in three major European Countries along with the US and represents Next-Generation Standard of Diagnosis for Sentinel Lymph Node Detection. Tc 99m Tilmanocept is approved for guiding sentinel lymph node biopsy in patients with clinically node negative breast cancer, squamous cell carcinoma of the oral cavity, or melanoma.
Sayre Therapeutics with a portfolio of oncology and immunology focused commercial products, has entered into an exclusive license agreement with Navidea Biopharmaceuticals, Inc, a company focused on the development and commercialization of precision immunodiagnostic agents and immunotherapeutic, for the development and commercialization of Tc 99m tilmanocept in India.
The receptor-targeted, radiopharmaceutical imaging agent was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in 2013 and by the European Medicines Agency in November 2014 under the brand name LYMPHOSEEK. Tc 99m Tilmanocept is already commercialized in three major European Countries along with the US and represents Next-Generation Standard of Diagnosis for Sentinel Lymph Node Detection. Tc 99m Tilmanocept is approved for guiding sentinel lymph node biopsy in patients with clinically node negative breast cancer, squamous cell carcinoma of the oral cavity, or melanoma.
Cytecare Appoints Dr Mythri Shankar as
Senior Consultant – Nuclear Medicine
Cytecare, committed to revolutionise Cancer care in India, announces the appointment of a Dr Mythri Shankar, Senior Consultant, Nuclear Medicine Department.
Dr Mythri Shankar has trained extensively in Nuclear Medicine from various globally renowned institutions such as UCLA, Cedars Sinai, Children's Hospital of Los Angeles, and Harvard Medical School. With over 15 years of clinical expertise, Dr. Shankar's experience has enabled the integration of most appropriate protocol selection while performing sophisticated radioactive injection procedures. She is a member of several international organizations such as the American Society of Nuclear Cardiology and the Society of Nuclear Medicine (USA & India), and is also actively involved in academics and several research projects.
Cytecare, committed to revolutionise Cancer care in India, announces the appointment of a Dr Mythri Shankar, Senior Consultant, Nuclear Medicine Department.
Dr Mythri Shankar has trained extensively in Nuclear Medicine from various globally renowned institutions such as UCLA, Cedars Sinai, Children's Hospital of Los Angeles, and Harvard Medical School. With over 15 years of clinical expertise, Dr. Shankar's experience has enabled the integration of most appropriate protocol selection while performing sophisticated radioactive injection procedures. She is a member of several international organizations such as the American Society of Nuclear Cardiology and the Society of Nuclear Medicine (USA & India), and is also actively involved in academics and several research projects.
Sayre Signs Exclusive License and Distribution Deal with Navidea
Sayre Therapeutics with a portfolio of oncology and immunology focused commercial products, has entered into an exclusive license agreement with Navidea Biopharmaceuticals, Inc, a company focused on the development and commercialization of precision immunodiagnostic agents and immunotherapeutic, for the development and commercialization of Tc 99m tilmanocept in India.
The receptor-targeted, radiopharmaceutical imaging agent was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in 2013 and by the European Medicines Agency in November 2014 under the brand name LYMPHOSEEK. Tc 99m Tilmanocept is already commercialized in three major European Countries along with the US and represents Next-Generation Standard of Diagnosis for Sentinel Lymph Node Detection. Tc 99m Tilmanocept is approved for guiding sentinel lymph node biopsy in patients with clinically node negative breast cancer, squamous cell carcinoma of the oral cavity, or melanoma.
Sayre Therapeutics with a portfolio of oncology and immunology focused commercial products, has entered into an exclusive license agreement with Navidea Biopharmaceuticals, Inc, a company focused on the development and commercialization of precision immunodiagnostic agents and immunotherapeutic, for the development and commercialization of Tc 99m tilmanocept in India.
The receptor-targeted, radiopharmaceutical imaging agent was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in 2013 and by the European Medicines Agency in November 2014 under the brand name LYMPHOSEEK. Tc 99m Tilmanocept is already commercialized in three major European Countries along with the US and represents Next-Generation Standard of Diagnosis for Sentinel Lymph Node Detection. Tc 99m Tilmanocept is approved for guiding sentinel lymph node biopsy in patients with clinically node negative breast cancer, squamous cell carcinoma of the oral cavity, or melanoma.
GNH India Clears Audit to Trade Orphan Drugs with UK
GNH India, a global source for priority pharmaceuticals, is amongst the handful of Indian companies to clear an audit from one of the largest UK pharmaceutical distribution companies. Armed with a WHO-GDP (Good Distribution Practice) certification, GNH India has entered a two-way partnership with the UK based company for the trade in life-saving drugs into their respective countries.
Through this new development, accessibility to medicines for the treatment of an array of diseases is now not just plausible; but extremely possible. Orphan drugs such as Ferripox (used in the treatment of iron overload in Thalassaemia major patients), Raxone (used in the treatment of visually impaired adolescents and adults), Trientine (used to treat a rare but growing rate of Wilson's disease) and Mitocin (a drug used to treat a range of cancers) are now available to the Indian population.
Commenting on this, Dr. Piyush Gupta, Associate Director, GNH India said, “With a change in lifestyle and increased travel abroad, India's population has become a crucible for various diseases. Even though we have seen a marked increase in incidences of rare diseases, our pharmaceutical industry is yet to catch up in response to this growth trajectory. At GNH India, we had ensured to follow due protocol by applying and receiving the WHO-GDP certification well before hand. This has led to a high success rate in terms of clearing audits from various countries- the UK is the latest."
The WHO-GDP certification ensures that procurement, purchasing, storage, distribution, transportation, repackaging, relabelling, documentation and record-keeping practices are met with stringent protocols.
GNH India exports to more than 180 countries and has 135,000 product lines to choose from. With this new development, GNH India has forayed into the UK market as a legal distributor of rare and life-saving drugs.
GNH India, a global source for priority pharmaceuticals, is amongst the handful of Indian companies to clear an audit from one of the largest UK pharmaceutical distribution companies. Armed with a WHO-GDP (Good Distribution Practice) certification, GNH India has entered a two-way partnership with the UK based company for the trade in life-saving drugs into their respective countries.
Through this new development, accessibility to medicines for the treatment of an array of diseases is now not just plausible; but extremely possible. Orphan drugs such as Ferripox (used in the treatment of iron overload in Thalassaemia major patients), Raxone (used in the treatment of visually impaired adolescents and adults), Trientine (used to treat a rare but growing rate of Wilson's disease) and Mitocin (a drug used to treat a range of cancers) are now available to the Indian population.
Commenting on this, Dr. Piyush Gupta, Associate Director, GNH India said, “With a change in lifestyle and increased travel abroad, India's population has become a crucible for various diseases. Even though we have seen a marked increase in incidences of rare diseases, our pharmaceutical industry is yet to catch up in response to this growth trajectory. At GNH India, we had ensured to follow due protocol by applying and receiving the WHO-GDP certification well before hand. This has led to a high success rate in terms of clearing audits from various countries- the UK is the latest."
The WHO-GDP certification ensures that procurement, purchasing, storage, distribution, transportation, repackaging, relabelling, documentation and record-keeping practices are met with stringent protocols.
GNH India exports to more than 180 countries and has 135,000 product lines to choose from. With this new development, GNH India has forayed into the UK market as a legal distributor of rare and life-saving drugs.
SCHOTT Sets Unprecedented Quality Control Standards for Indian Pharma Tubing Industry
In an unprecedented development, SCHOTT India has presented new technical specifications to achieve unparalleled quality control standards for its FIOLAX pharmaceutical glass tubing manufactured in India. By harnessing big data through the implementation of its perfeXion system, SCHOTT has moved from a statistical sample-based quality-control process to one that inspects 100 percent of the tubing. As a result, SCHOTT now offers an improved product with superior auditability and traceability for the pharmaceutical industry. These improvements are anchored in the company’s new specifications and thus made visible for customers globally.
The new process has been introduced in all SCHOTT plants worldwide and will be applied to all FIOLAX tubes manufactured in its Jambusar plant from July 1, 2017. These technical standards are the culmination of years of in-house research into the development of tubing geometry measurement, suitable for SCHOTT’s fast-paced production environment. The tubing, used for vials, syringes, cartridges, and ampoules, can now be produced at an even higher quality from the beginning, even for parameters such as the inside diameter, which previously were difficult to measure. By improving the measurement of visual quality characteristics as well, SCHOTT can offer individual specifications tailored even closer to customers' requirements.
Indian pharmaceuticals market is in the midst of major developments and dynamic changes. According to industry reports, it is currently growing at double-digit rates per year. Pharmaceutical packaging industry gets directly impacted by the growing needs of the pharmaceutical industry.
In addition to tightening the tolerances for outside diameter, inside diameter, and wall thickness, we have now added specifications for the precise measurement of circularity, siding, and straightness in these new standards. Furthermore, the minimum length restrictions for outside diameter and wall thickness tolerance deviations have been completely eliminated, the maximum permissible airline width has been reduced from 0.1 mm to 0.08 mm, and an extractables profile for the glass composition has been added for the first time.
In an unprecedented development, SCHOTT India has presented new technical specifications to achieve unparalleled quality control standards for its FIOLAX pharmaceutical glass tubing manufactured in India. By harnessing big data through the implementation of its perfeXion system, SCHOTT has moved from a statistical sample-based quality-control process to one that inspects 100 percent of the tubing. As a result, SCHOTT now offers an improved product with superior auditability and traceability for the pharmaceutical industry. These improvements are anchored in the company’s new specifications and thus made visible for customers globally.
The new process has been introduced in all SCHOTT plants worldwide and will be applied to all FIOLAX tubes manufactured in its Jambusar plant from July 1, 2017. These technical standards are the culmination of years of in-house research into the development of tubing geometry measurement, suitable for SCHOTT’s fast-paced production environment. The tubing, used for vials, syringes, cartridges, and ampoules, can now be produced at an even higher quality from the beginning, even for parameters such as the inside diameter, which previously were difficult to measure. By improving the measurement of visual quality characteristics as well, SCHOTT can offer individual specifications tailored even closer to customers' requirements.
Indian pharmaceuticals market is in the midst of major developments and dynamic changes. According to industry reports, it is currently growing at double-digit rates per year. Pharmaceutical packaging industry gets directly impacted by the growing needs of the pharmaceutical industry.
In addition to tightening the tolerances for outside diameter, inside diameter, and wall thickness, we have now added specifications for the precise measurement of circularity, siding, and straightness in these new standards. Furthermore, the minimum length restrictions for outside diameter and wall thickness tolerance deviations have been completely eliminated, the maximum permissible airline width has been reduced from 0.1 mm to 0.08 mm, and an extractables profile for the glass composition has been added for the first time.
American Academy of Ophthalmology Collaborate with Lupin
The American Academy of Ophthalmology and Pharma major Lupin Limited (Lupin) has announced an agreement that would seek to expand and enhance continuing ophthalmic education in India. The effort is expected to reach 3,000 ophthalmologists in the country.
The collaboration will provide ophthalmologists access to several clinical education tools including the Academy’s flagship clinical education resource, the Ophthalmic News and Education Network. The World’s largest online compendium of ophthalmic knowledge, the ONE Network is accessed by approximately 130,000 users every month.
The Academy typically offers access to the ONE Network and its other educational resources as a benefit of Academy membership as well as to ophthalmologists in other countries through a special application. The collaboration provides a new channel for distributing this content in India. The Academy also distributes its content in India to 16,000 members of the All India Ophthalmological Society. Through this partnership, over 3,000 ophthalmologists across the country will be provided online access to knowledge repository, which includes journals and videos to help practitioners stay abreast of the latest developments in the space
The American Academy of Ophthalmology and Pharma major Lupin Limited (Lupin) has announced an agreement that would seek to expand and enhance continuing ophthalmic education in India. The effort is expected to reach 3,000 ophthalmologists in the country.
The collaboration will provide ophthalmologists access to several clinical education tools including the Academy’s flagship clinical education resource, the Ophthalmic News and Education Network. The World’s largest online compendium of ophthalmic knowledge, the ONE Network is accessed by approximately 130,000 users every month.
The Academy typically offers access to the ONE Network and its other educational resources as a benefit of Academy membership as well as to ophthalmologists in other countries through a special application. The collaboration provides a new channel for distributing this content in India. The Academy also distributes its content in India to 16,000 members of the All India Ophthalmological Society. Through this partnership, over 3,000 ophthalmologists across the country will be provided online access to knowledge repository, which includes journals and videos to help practitioners stay abreast of the latest developments in the space
Cytecare Appoints Dr Mythri Shankar as Senior Consultant – Nuclear Medicine
Cytecare, committed to revolutionise Cancer care in India, announces the appointment of a Dr. Mythri Shankar, Senior Consultant, Nuclear Medicine Department.
Dr. Mythri Shankar has trained extensively in Nuclear Medicine from various globally renowned institutions such as UCLA, Cedars Sinai, Children's Hospital of Los Angeles, and Harvard Medical School. With over 15 years of clinical expertise, Dr. Shankar’s experience has enabled the integration of most appropriate protocol selection while performing sophisticated radioactive injection procedures. She is a member of several international organizations such as the American Society of Nuclear Cardiology and the Society of Nuclear Medicine (USA & India), and is also actively involved in academics and several research projects.
Cytecare, committed to revolutionise Cancer care in India, announces the appointment of a Dr. Mythri Shankar, Senior Consultant, Nuclear Medicine Department.
Dr. Mythri Shankar has trained extensively in Nuclear Medicine from various globally renowned institutions such as UCLA, Cedars Sinai, Children's Hospital of Los Angeles, and Harvard Medical School. With over 15 years of clinical expertise, Dr. Shankar’s experience has enabled the integration of most appropriate protocol selection while performing sophisticated radioactive injection procedures. She is a member of several international organizations such as the American Society of Nuclear Cardiology and the Society of Nuclear Medicine (USA & India), and is also actively involved in academics and several research projects.
BASF Introduces First New Class of Public Health Insecticide for Malaria Prevention in More Than 30 Years
BASF has received a recommendation from the World Health Organization (WHO) for Interceptor G2, a long-lasting insecticide-treated mosquito net (LN) based on chlorfenapyr. Chlorfenapyr is a completely new insecticide class for combating mosquitoes for public health. This is the first WHO recommendation for a product based on a new insecticide class in more than 30 years.
Working with the Innovative Vector Control Consortium (IVCC) and the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine in a collaboration lasting over a decade, BASF's scientists successfully repurposed chlorfenapyr to be effective on mosquito nets and meet stringent WHO performance thresholds for public health.
A second chlorfenapyr product, an indoor residual spray named Sylando 240SC, is also in the final phases of WHO evaluation.
Around the world, every two minutes a child dies from malaria and there are more than 200 million new cases every year. Malaria is also a major cause of global poverty and its burden is greatest among the most vulnerable.
Long-lasting insecticide-treated mosquito nets (LN) and indoor residual sprays (IRS) are the cornerstones of malaria prevention, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. But 60 countries have already reported resistance to at least one class of insecticide used in them. Part of the problem is that there were previously only four WHO-recommended insecticide classes for adult mosquito control: Only one of them, the pyrethroid class, was recommended for LNs. Continual use of the same insecticides enabled the highly-adaptable mosquito to develop significant levels of resistance.
BASF has received a recommendation from the World Health Organization (WHO) for Interceptor G2, a long-lasting insecticide-treated mosquito net (LN) based on chlorfenapyr. Chlorfenapyr is a completely new insecticide class for combating mosquitoes for public health. This is the first WHO recommendation for a product based on a new insecticide class in more than 30 years.
Working with the Innovative Vector Control Consortium (IVCC) and the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine in a collaboration lasting over a decade, BASF's scientists successfully repurposed chlorfenapyr to be effective on mosquito nets and meet stringent WHO performance thresholds for public health.
A second chlorfenapyr product, an indoor residual spray named Sylando 240SC, is also in the final phases of WHO evaluation.
Around the world, every two minutes a child dies from malaria and there are more than 200 million new cases every year. Malaria is also a major cause of global poverty and its burden is greatest among the most vulnerable.
Long-lasting insecticide-treated mosquito nets (LN) and indoor residual sprays (IRS) are the cornerstones of malaria prevention, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. But 60 countries have already reported resistance to at least one class of insecticide used in them. Part of the problem is that there were previously only four WHO-recommended insecticide classes for adult mosquito control: Only one of them, the pyrethroid class, was recommended for LNs. Continual use of the same insecticides enabled the highly-adaptable mosquito to develop significant levels of resistance.
Dr. Reddy's Announces Commercialization of Vozet in India
Dr. Reddy's Laboratories Ltd announced today the commercilazation of Vozet Tablets in India, indicated for the treatment of allergic Rhinitis and chronic Urticaria.
The Vozet Tablets contain Levocetirizine 5 mg, and are available in a strip size of 10.
The anti-histamine market in India had sales of INR 1038cr MAT for the most recent twelve months ended in March 2017, according to IMS ORG. Dr. Reddy’s will further strengthen its anti-allergy portfolio with the addition of Vozet.
Dr. Reddy's Laboratories Ltd announced today the commercilazation of Vozet Tablets in India, indicated for the treatment of allergic Rhinitis and chronic Urticaria.
The Vozet Tablets contain Levocetirizine 5 mg, and are available in a strip size of 10.
The anti-histamine market in India had sales of INR 1038cr MAT for the most recent twelve months ended in March 2017, according to IMS ORG. Dr. Reddy’s will further strengthen its anti-allergy portfolio with the addition of Vozet.
Agilent Technologies and Agendia Ink Deal on Molecular Cancer Diagnostics
Agilent Technologies Inc and Agendia, Inc jointly announced an agreement to expand their relationship to include the development of an RNASeq kit version of Agendia’s currently marketed MammaPrint and BluePrint tests.
Agendia's MammaPrint test provides High-Risk or Low-Risk test results to assess the risk of distant metastasis within five years, in breast cancer patients with Stage I or Stage II disease. Agendia’s BluePrint test builds on the foundational prognostic precision of MammaPrint, to classify the breast cancer into one of four molecular subtypes. These results help to predict clinical outcomes in women with early-stage breast cancer.
Using Agilent's SureSelect target enrichment system, the new RNAseq kit will enable Agendia to develop and perform the MammaPrint and BluePrint tests, as next-generation sequencing assays. This capability will allow the tests to be run in decentralized settings that can utilize a larger footprint of next-generation sequencing instruments, thus affording patients global access to these revolutionary tests. The ability to perform these tests at locations closer to the patients, provides greater accessibility and the potential for more cancer patients to get better individualized treatment management. The initial phase of kit development is expected to be completed in 2017, providing early access to limited markets in Europe.
Agilent Technologies is a leading provider of target enrichment for next-generation DNA and RNA sequencing solutions. Target enrichment saves researchers time and resources by enabling them to focus on regions of interest rather than looking at the entire genome. Agendia is a leading molecular diagnostics company that develops and markets FFPE-based genomic diagnostic products. Agendia's MammaPrint microarray-based diagnostic test is currently the only FDA-cleared breast cancer recurrence test intended for use in breast cancer patients of all ages.
"We have had a long-term collaboration with Agilent and are excited to further our relationship,” said Mark Straley, chief executive officer of Agendia. “The addition of Agilent’s RNA next-generation sequencing technologies to our current microarray platform will allow us to penetrate international markets where decentralized kit offerings are preferred, and help us to achieve our core mission of providing all women access to advanced cancer diagnostics."
"We are excited to partner once again with Agendia" said Jacob Thaysen, president of Agilent's Diagnostics and Genomics Group. “Both companies share a common goal of fighting cancer and this agreement leverages Agendia’s expertise in molecular cancer diagnostics and Agilent’s leading NGS target enrichment technologies to ultimately enable the best treatment decision to be made for each individual."
Agilent Technologies Inc and Agendia, Inc jointly announced an agreement to expand their relationship to include the development of an RNASeq kit version of Agendia’s currently marketed MammaPrint and BluePrint tests.
Agendia's MammaPrint test provides High-Risk or Low-Risk test results to assess the risk of distant metastasis within five years, in breast cancer patients with Stage I or Stage II disease. Agendia’s BluePrint test builds on the foundational prognostic precision of MammaPrint, to classify the breast cancer into one of four molecular subtypes. These results help to predict clinical outcomes in women with early-stage breast cancer.
Using Agilent's SureSelect target enrichment system, the new RNAseq kit will enable Agendia to develop and perform the MammaPrint and BluePrint tests, as next-generation sequencing assays. This capability will allow the tests to be run in decentralized settings that can utilize a larger footprint of next-generation sequencing instruments, thus affording patients global access to these revolutionary tests. The ability to perform these tests at locations closer to the patients, provides greater accessibility and the potential for more cancer patients to get better individualized treatment management. The initial phase of kit development is expected to be completed in 2017, providing early access to limited markets in Europe.
Agilent Technologies is a leading provider of target enrichment for next-generation DNA and RNA sequencing solutions. Target enrichment saves researchers time and resources by enabling them to focus on regions of interest rather than looking at the entire genome. Agendia is a leading molecular diagnostics company that develops and markets FFPE-based genomic diagnostic products. Agendia's MammaPrint microarray-based diagnostic test is currently the only FDA-cleared breast cancer recurrence test intended for use in breast cancer patients of all ages.
"We have had a long-term collaboration with Agilent and are excited to further our relationship,” said Mark Straley, chief executive officer of Agendia. “The addition of Agilent’s RNA next-generation sequencing technologies to our current microarray platform will allow us to penetrate international markets where decentralized kit offerings are preferred, and help us to achieve our core mission of providing all women access to advanced cancer diagnostics."
"We are excited to partner once again with Agendia" said Jacob Thaysen, president of Agilent's Diagnostics and Genomics Group. “Both companies share a common goal of fighting cancer and this agreement leverages Agendia’s expertise in molecular cancer diagnostics and Agilent’s leading NGS target enrichment technologies to ultimately enable the best treatment decision to be made for each individual."
Ozone Pharma Introduces DFO 4X Gel
Ozone Pharmaceuticals Ltd, one of India's premium Pharmaceutical companies brings its latest topical pain reliever product - DFO 4X Gel that aligns with the brand’s motto of ‘Pain Eradication’ [Pain Elimination]. In sync with offering this new and innovative product, the brand launched a campaign in May, 2017; named, 'Dard Baanton Nahi, Mitao', addressing the consumers' common pain points such as injuries, muscle pain, sprains etc. The aim was to create an emotional connect with consumers’ agony and the brand. With an objective of ‘eradicating’ the word pain from consumers’ life, the brand received an overwhelming response in the market, through this compelling campaign. Since the launch of this campaign, 70000 units of Ozone D.F.O. 4X Gel have been sold pan India - an incredible feat. It is noteworthy that, currently, DFO 4X Gel contributes about 12.5 per cent to the company's overall business.
With an efficacy rate of 31 per cent faster than normal gels, DFO 4X Gel is an effective and efficient advanced topical pain relief product containing ‘high dose’ - Diclofenac Diethylamine 4.64 per cent for ‘Direct Acting’ deep penetration of the epidermis (outer most layer of the skin), which translates into ‘site-specific effect’\' and instant pain and inflammation relief.
D.F.O. 4X Gel has superior efficacy without compromising safety in management of: osteoarthritis (oa) pain, acute musculoskeletal pain and inflammation, sprains and strains, sciatica pain, neck pain, back pain, epicondylitis (tennis elbow), carpal tunnel syndrome, knee pain and repetitive sports injury; this efficacy and safety profile makes D.F.O. 4X Gel the most preferred product
Ozone Pharmaceuticals Ltd, one of India's premium Pharmaceutical companies brings its latest topical pain reliever product - DFO 4X Gel that aligns with the brand’s motto of ‘Pain Eradication’ [Pain Elimination]. In sync with offering this new and innovative product, the brand launched a campaign in May, 2017; named, 'Dard Baanton Nahi, Mitao', addressing the consumers' common pain points such as injuries, muscle pain, sprains etc. The aim was to create an emotional connect with consumers’ agony and the brand. With an objective of ‘eradicating’ the word pain from consumers’ life, the brand received an overwhelming response in the market, through this compelling campaign. Since the launch of this campaign, 70000 units of Ozone D.F.O. 4X Gel have been sold pan India - an incredible feat. It is noteworthy that, currently, DFO 4X Gel contributes about 12.5 per cent to the company's overall business.
With an efficacy rate of 31 per cent faster than normal gels, DFO 4X Gel is an effective and efficient advanced topical pain relief product containing ‘high dose’ - Diclofenac Diethylamine 4.64 per cent for ‘Direct Acting’ deep penetration of the epidermis (outer most layer of the skin), which translates into ‘site-specific effect’\' and instant pain and inflammation relief.
D.F.O. 4X Gel has superior efficacy without compromising safety in management of: osteoarthritis (oa) pain, acute musculoskeletal pain and inflammation, sprains and strains, sciatica pain, neck pain, back pain, epicondylitis (tennis elbow), carpal tunnel syndrome, knee pain and repetitive sports injury; this efficacy and safety profile makes D.F.O. 4X Gel the most preferred product
Boston Scientific Brings the Next Generation Asthma Therapy to India
Boston Scientific India announced the availability of Bronchial Thermoplasty (BT) Therapy indicated for the treatment of severe, persistent, drug-resistant asthma in patients 18 years and older whose asthma is not well controlled with inhaled corticosteroids and long acting beta agonists. The first BT procedure was performed in Royal Care Hospital, Coimbatore.
The Bronchial Thermoplasty therapy helps clear the bronchial airways by delivering thermal energy to the smooth muscle. This process decreases constriction in the patient’s airways and enables easier breathing, reducing the frequency and severity of asthma attacks for patients with severe, persistent, drug-resistant asthma Bronchial Thermoplasty is performed under moderate sedation on an outpatient basis. The first BT patient is a middle aged woman, who is suffering from severe, persistent, drug-resistant asthma for the past 30 years. She had recurrent asthma attacks and frequent emergency room visits despite her medication regimes.
"There are over 18 million estimated asthmatics in the country, for some of whom currently available medication has failed to provide any relief. Our Bronchial Thermoplasty Therapy holds great promise to help address this need gap. We have sufficient evidence that shows Bronchial Thermoplasty is an effective therapeutic option for patients with severe persistent, drug-resistant asthma,” said Prabal Chakraborty, vice president and managing director, Boston Scientific in India.
Dr. Pattabi Raman, Head- Pulmonology Associates, Royal Care Super Specialty Hospital, who performed the first BT procedure said, “This is a ground-breaking solution which may provide a complementary treatment to severe, persistent, drug-resistant asthma patients in the country." This therapy is recognized globally and has been well received in around 20 markets.
Boston Scientific India announced the availability of Bronchial Thermoplasty (BT) Therapy indicated for the treatment of severe, persistent, drug-resistant asthma in patients 18 years and older whose asthma is not well controlled with inhaled corticosteroids and long acting beta agonists. The first BT procedure was performed in Royal Care Hospital, Coimbatore.
The Bronchial Thermoplasty therapy helps clear the bronchial airways by delivering thermal energy to the smooth muscle. This process decreases constriction in the patient’s airways and enables easier breathing, reducing the frequency and severity of asthma attacks for patients with severe, persistent, drug-resistant asthma Bronchial Thermoplasty is performed under moderate sedation on an outpatient basis. The first BT patient is a middle aged woman, who is suffering from severe, persistent, drug-resistant asthma for the past 30 years. She had recurrent asthma attacks and frequent emergency room visits despite her medication regimes.
"There are over 18 million estimated asthmatics in the country, for some of whom currently available medication has failed to provide any relief. Our Bronchial Thermoplasty Therapy holds great promise to help address this need gap. We have sufficient evidence that shows Bronchial Thermoplasty is an effective therapeutic option for patients with severe persistent, drug-resistant asthma,” said Prabal Chakraborty, vice president and managing director, Boston Scientific in India.
Dr. Pattabi Raman, Head- Pulmonology Associates, Royal Care Super Specialty Hospital, who performed the first BT procedure said, “This is a ground-breaking solution which may provide a complementary treatment to severe, persistent, drug-resistant asthma patients in the country." This therapy is recognized globally and has been well received in around 20 markets.
GNH Brings Malaria Relief to Yemen's Conflict Zone
India's global source for priority medicines, GNH India has successfully exported one of the largest orders for anti-malarial pharmaceuticals for a conflict zone in Yemen. The consignment contained 1, 20,000 Mefloquine tablets and Primaquine 45mg which were delivered in a record time of 3 weeks from receipt of order. The consignment was sent to a local aid agency operating in Oman; from there it was delivered to Yemen by road. Most established pharma companies fear to work in these zones due to the implication of US Sanctions, but GNH India has set an example by giving importance to humanity rather than business.
Dr Piyush Gupta, Associate Director, GNH India commented, "It is an accomplishment for GNH India to export such a big order to Yemen in a time span of 3 weeks. Such consignments are a testimony to our belief that everyone in all parts of the world deserves access to proper medicines irrespective of their geographical boundaries or political affiliations. We ensured that despite the obstacles placed in our way, the conflict ridden citizens of Yemen would receive medicines that are in dire need in of these drugs."
Mefloquine is commonly used to fight Malaria and used by travellers around the world to prevent malaria when visiting places where malaria is common. On the other hand, Primaquine is used with other medications to prevent and treat malaria. It is used when the primary medicine (such as Mefloquine) have killed the malaria parasites living in red blood cells.
India's global source for priority medicines, GNH India has successfully exported one of the largest orders for anti-malarial pharmaceuticals for a conflict zone in Yemen. The consignment contained 1, 20,000 Mefloquine tablets and Primaquine 45mg which were delivered in a record time of 3 weeks from receipt of order. The consignment was sent to a local aid agency operating in Oman; from there it was delivered to Yemen by road. Most established pharma companies fear to work in these zones due to the implication of US Sanctions, but GNH India has set an example by giving importance to humanity rather than business.
Dr Piyush Gupta, Associate Director, GNH India commented, "It is an accomplishment for GNH India to export such a big order to Yemen in a time span of 3 weeks. Such consignments are a testimony to our belief that everyone in all parts of the world deserves access to proper medicines irrespective of their geographical boundaries or political affiliations. We ensured that despite the obstacles placed in our way, the conflict ridden citizens of Yemen would receive medicines that are in dire need in of these drugs."
Mefloquine is commonly used to fight Malaria and used by travellers around the world to prevent malaria when visiting places where malaria is common. On the other hand, Primaquine is used with other medications to prevent and treat malaria. It is used when the primary medicine (such as Mefloquine) have killed the malaria parasites living in red blood cells.
Apollo Partners with RMS REGROW for Innovative Cell Therapy Treatment for Orthopedic Patients
Apollo Hospitals, Asia's largest and most trusted healthcare group, has partnered with RMS REGROW, the first 'Make in India' Company in Cell Therapy Technology, to offer two new Regenerative Medicine Cell Therapy products- Ossron and Chondron for bone and cartilage problems, respectively. The two products will address unmet clinical needs in the orthopaedic market with respect to sports injuries, accidents and alternate to hip replacements and knee replacements for a young arthritic knee. In an exclusive tie up between Apollo Hospitals and RMS Regrow, the treatment therapy will be made available across all Apollo Hospitals, Apollo Spectra Hospitals and Apollo clinics in India.
Ossron and Chondron are the results of a dedicated research team at REGROW. The two products are innovative proprietary and patented technology which has been developed for both the products following the regulatory guidelines. Through several clinical trials and evaluation studies over 8 years, the company has achieved the market authorization for the two cell therapy products.
As an exclusive offering, Apollo Hospitals will create a platform for orthopaedic doctors to practice Regenerative Medicine efficiently by conducting live surgical workshops, CME’s for doctors and conferences (national and international).
Apollo Hospitals, Asia's largest and most trusted healthcare group, has partnered with RMS REGROW, the first 'Make in India' Company in Cell Therapy Technology, to offer two new Regenerative Medicine Cell Therapy products- Ossron and Chondron for bone and cartilage problems, respectively. The two products will address unmet clinical needs in the orthopaedic market with respect to sports injuries, accidents and alternate to hip replacements and knee replacements for a young arthritic knee. In an exclusive tie up between Apollo Hospitals and RMS Regrow, the treatment therapy will be made available across all Apollo Hospitals, Apollo Spectra Hospitals and Apollo clinics in India.
Ossron and Chondron are the results of a dedicated research team at REGROW. The two products are innovative proprietary and patented technology which has been developed for both the products following the regulatory guidelines. Through several clinical trials and evaluation studies over 8 years, the company has achieved the market authorization for the two cell therapy products.
As an exclusive offering, Apollo Hospitals will create a platform for orthopaedic doctors to practice Regenerative Medicine efficiently by conducting live surgical workshops, CME’s for doctors and conferences (national and international).
Everest Group Names TCS as Leader and Star Performer in Life Sciences IT Application Services
Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), a leading global IT services, consulting and business solutions organization, has been recognized as a Leader and Star Performer for Life Sciences IT Application Services by leading advisory and research firm, Everest Group, in its report, "Life Sciences – IT Application Services Providers PEAK Matrix Assessment 2017."
Everest Group acknowledged TCS’ strong foothold in the pharmaceutical and medical devices sector, and a growing business presence with biotechnology firms. The report highlights TCS' strong focus on development of next-generation solutions, incorporating Artificial Intelligence, IoT and platform-driven approaches for areas such as drug development and patient engagement.
Everest Group analyzed the capabilities of 22 service providers on the Everest Group PEAK Matrix in the Global Life Sciences sector. The PEAK Matrix is a composite framework that provides an objective, data driven and comparative assessment of Life Science IT Apps Service Providers, which are then divided into three categories based on market success and delivery capability.
"Life Sciences firms are grappling with the reinvention of their business models, along with the need to unlock efficiency out of globally diversified operations. Technology is a key enabler to ensure this transition, and TCS continues to be a partner of choice for leading Life Sciences firms, based on its delivery excellence and ongoing market success," said Jimit Arora, Partner, Everest Group. "By taking a platform-driven approach to strategic value chain tenets, TCS is seeking to future-proof its portfolio and driving differentiation in a highly competitive market."
"Life Sciences customers are embracing newer technologies and next gen platforms to meet the challenges of higher R&D costs, declining revenue and increasingly complex regulations," added Debashis Ghosh, President, Life Sciences, Manufacturing and Energy Business Group, TCS. "Our deep industry expertise, global scale, investments in digital solutions, and focus on platforms enables us to offer true value to our customers across the Life Sciences value chain."
Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), a leading global IT services, consulting and business solutions organization, has been recognized as a Leader and Star Performer for Life Sciences IT Application Services by leading advisory and research firm, Everest Group, in its report, "Life Sciences – IT Application Services Providers PEAK Matrix Assessment 2017."
Everest Group acknowledged TCS’ strong foothold in the pharmaceutical and medical devices sector, and a growing business presence with biotechnology firms. The report highlights TCS' strong focus on development of next-generation solutions, incorporating Artificial Intelligence, IoT and platform-driven approaches for areas such as drug development and patient engagement.
Everest Group analyzed the capabilities of 22 service providers on the Everest Group PEAK Matrix in the Global Life Sciences sector. The PEAK Matrix is a composite framework that provides an objective, data driven and comparative assessment of Life Science IT Apps Service Providers, which are then divided into three categories based on market success and delivery capability.
"Life Sciences firms are grappling with the reinvention of their business models, along with the need to unlock efficiency out of globally diversified operations. Technology is a key enabler to ensure this transition, and TCS continues to be a partner of choice for leading Life Sciences firms, based on its delivery excellence and ongoing market success," said Jimit Arora, Partner, Everest Group. "By taking a platform-driven approach to strategic value chain tenets, TCS is seeking to future-proof its portfolio and driving differentiation in a highly competitive market."
"Life Sciences customers are embracing newer technologies and next gen platforms to meet the challenges of higher R&D costs, declining revenue and increasingly complex regulations," added Debashis Ghosh, President, Life Sciences, Manufacturing and Energy Business Group, TCS. "Our deep industry expertise, global scale, investments in digital solutions, and focus on platforms enables us to offer true value to our customers across the Life Sciences value chain."
LifeCell and LifeCodexx to Launch Rapid and Affordable NIPT in India
LifeCodexx AG, a pioneer in non-invasive prenatal DNA testing in Europe has announced its partnership with LifeCell – India's leading mother & baby preventive health care provider, to bring PrenaTesT qNIPT testing for the first time to India.
The qNIPT technology that detects the presence of fetal trisomy 21 (Down Syndrome) from maternal blood, received CE marking (European Conformity) in December 2016 last year. This certification was obtained after a successful blinded clinical validation of around 1000 samples, demonstrating a 100% credibility of test results obtained from PrenaTest. The novel qNIPT technology clearly demonstrates a significant cost-efficiency and rapid turnaround time compared to other NIPT techniques as it doesn't rely on costly and lengthy sequencing methodology.
Down Syndrome (DS), also called Trisomy 21, is a condition where extra genetic material causes delays in a child development both mentally & physically and is one of the most common genetic birth disorders. Down Syndrome (DS) is associated with mild to moderate learning disabilities, growth milestone delays, typical facial features and low muscle tone in early infancy. Though Down syndrome can't be prevented, it can be detected before a child is born.
India has the highest incidence of Down syndrome and it occurs in approximately 1 of 830 live births, as per Down Syndrome Federation of India. Through a series of screenings and tests, Down syndrome can be detected before the baby is born.
Routinely recommended prenatal screening tests are non-DNA based which unfortunately have lower detection rates (<95%) and higher false positives (5%). To confirm the diagnosis, further investigations are undertaken through invasive procedures causing a threat to the baby in the womb and added discomfort for the mother. Wider adoption of NIPT in global markets has substantially reduced the reporting of false positive diagnosis, which has reduced the need for any invasive tests by 60-70 per cent.
With this exclusive technology partnership with LifeCodexx AG, LifeCell will be able to perform the licensed qNIPT PrenaTest at LifeCell’s laboratories in Chennai (India) and will be the first in the country to offer qNIPT technology that is more advanced than sequencing methodology being used by others.
LifeCodexx AG, a pioneer in non-invasive prenatal DNA testing in Europe has announced its partnership with LifeCell – India's leading mother & baby preventive health care provider, to bring PrenaTesT qNIPT testing for the first time to India.
The qNIPT technology that detects the presence of fetal trisomy 21 (Down Syndrome) from maternal blood, received CE marking (European Conformity) in December 2016 last year. This certification was obtained after a successful blinded clinical validation of around 1000 samples, demonstrating a 100% credibility of test results obtained from PrenaTest. The novel qNIPT technology clearly demonstrates a significant cost-efficiency and rapid turnaround time compared to other NIPT techniques as it doesn't rely on costly and lengthy sequencing methodology.
Down Syndrome (DS), also called Trisomy 21, is a condition where extra genetic material causes delays in a child development both mentally & physically and is one of the most common genetic birth disorders. Down Syndrome (DS) is associated with mild to moderate learning disabilities, growth milestone delays, typical facial features and low muscle tone in early infancy. Though Down syndrome can't be prevented, it can be detected before a child is born.
India has the highest incidence of Down syndrome and it occurs in approximately 1 of 830 live births, as per Down Syndrome Federation of India. Through a series of screenings and tests, Down syndrome can be detected before the baby is born.
Routinely recommended prenatal screening tests are non-DNA based which unfortunately have lower detection rates (<95%) and higher false positives (5%). To confirm the diagnosis, further investigations are undertaken through invasive procedures causing a threat to the baby in the womb and added discomfort for the mother. Wider adoption of NIPT in global markets has substantially reduced the reporting of false positive diagnosis, which has reduced the need for any invasive tests by 60-70 per cent.
With this exclusive technology partnership with LifeCodexx AG, LifeCell will be able to perform the licensed qNIPT PrenaTest at LifeCell’s laboratories in Chennai (India) and will be the first in the country to offer qNIPT technology that is more advanced than sequencing methodology being used by others.
Hester Biosciences to Invest USD 3 Million in its Wholly Owned Subsidiary in Africa
Hester Biosciences Ltd one of India’s leading animal health care companies is planning to invest USD 3 million in its wholly owned subsidiary in Africa. Company’s board has approved the investment by way of equity in its wholly owned subsidiary company - Hester Biosciences Africa Limited, Tanzania, with an objective to manufacture animal vaccines and health products in Tanzania, to cater to the whole African continent.
The USD 3 million would be raised through internal accruals of Hester India.
While the project size has yet to be finalized, the balance amount for the project would be raised through debt.
More than 80 per cent of the required vaccines are imported in to Africa. Hester sees a very big potential in Africa for animal vaccines. Besides the common diseases, there are Africa-specific diseases, which currently remain unaddressed, thereby causing economical losses to poultry and livestock farmers.
Hester has already started the exports of animal vaccines & health products to Africa.
Hester’s distribution network in Africa not only aims at servicing the organized poultry & livestock farmers, but also the backyard farmers which constitute a big percentage of the animal population in Africa
Hester Biosciences Ltd one of India’s leading animal health care companies is planning to invest USD 3 million in its wholly owned subsidiary in Africa. Company’s board has approved the investment by way of equity in its wholly owned subsidiary company - Hester Biosciences Africa Limited, Tanzania, with an objective to manufacture animal vaccines and health products in Tanzania, to cater to the whole African continent.
The USD 3 million would be raised through internal accruals of Hester India.
While the project size has yet to be finalized, the balance amount for the project would be raised through debt.
More than 80 per cent of the required vaccines are imported in to Africa. Hester sees a very big potential in Africa for animal vaccines. Besides the common diseases, there are Africa-specific diseases, which currently remain unaddressed, thereby causing economical losses to poultry and livestock farmers.
Hester has already started the exports of animal vaccines & health products to Africa.
Hester’s distribution network in Africa not only aims at servicing the organized poultry & livestock farmers, but also the backyard farmers which constitute a big percentage of the animal population in Africa
IIL to Expand its Protozoan Vaccine Portfolio
Indian Immunologicals Limited (IIL) has signed MOU with INTA and Littoral Biologics of Argentina for transfer of technology for Bovine Parasitic vaccines in India. Introduction of vaccines against haemoprotozoan infections transmitted by ticks such as Babesiosis and Anaplasmosis will prevent loss in productivity in cattle and immensely benefit dairy farmers.
Instituto Nacional de Tecnologia Agropecuaria (INTA), Argentina is Argentinian federal agency in charge of the generation, adaptation and diffusion of technologies.
"Economic losses due to Babesisosis alone in India are estimated to be about USD 57.2 million", said Dr K Anand Kumar, Managing Director, Indian Immunologicals Limited. He added that "IIL is only vaccine manufacturer in India which is capable of producing effective parasitic vaccines for animals with vast experience in producing vaccine against haemoprotozoan Theileria annulata, since three decades. IIL recently introduced vaccine against Porcine Cysticercosis, a parasitic vaccine for Pigs. This agreement with the Argentinean collaborators will go a long way in uplifting productivity among dairy farmers in India".
Dr Manual G Garcia, Director General of Littoral, Dr Nicora Amadeo, President INTA, Dr Cerioni Adolfo Luis, National Coordinator, INTA, Argentina signed the agreement with Indian Immunologicals to transfer technology to produce vaccine against Babesiosis and Anaplasmosis. IIL’s Rakshavac-T (Vaccine against Theileria annulata) is the only vaccine against haemoprotozoan infections in India.
IIL is set to address this unmet need to control haemoprotozoan diseases transmitted by ticks in India and prevent loss of productivity in cattle.
Indian Immunologicals Limited (IIL) has signed MOU with INTA and Littoral Biologics of Argentina for transfer of technology for Bovine Parasitic vaccines in India. Introduction of vaccines against haemoprotozoan infections transmitted by ticks such as Babesiosis and Anaplasmosis will prevent loss in productivity in cattle and immensely benefit dairy farmers.
Instituto Nacional de Tecnologia Agropecuaria (INTA), Argentina is Argentinian federal agency in charge of the generation, adaptation and diffusion of technologies.
"Economic losses due to Babesisosis alone in India are estimated to be about USD 57.2 million", said Dr K Anand Kumar, Managing Director, Indian Immunologicals Limited. He added that "IIL is only vaccine manufacturer in India which is capable of producing effective parasitic vaccines for animals with vast experience in producing vaccine against haemoprotozoan Theileria annulata, since three decades. IIL recently introduced vaccine against Porcine Cysticercosis, a parasitic vaccine for Pigs. This agreement with the Argentinean collaborators will go a long way in uplifting productivity among dairy farmers in India".
Dr Manual G Garcia, Director General of Littoral, Dr Nicora Amadeo, President INTA, Dr Cerioni Adolfo Luis, National Coordinator, INTA, Argentina signed the agreement with Indian Immunologicals to transfer technology to produce vaccine against Babesiosis and Anaplasmosis. IIL’s Rakshavac-T (Vaccine against Theileria annulata) is the only vaccine against haemoprotozoan infections in India.
IIL is set to address this unmet need to control haemoprotozoan diseases transmitted by ticks in India and prevent loss of productivity in cattle.
'Patients First' ISCR's theme for International Clinical Trials Day 2017
The Indian Society for Clinical Research (ISCR), an association of clinical research professionals, has this year retained its theme of Patients First for International Clinical Trials Day 2017. Each year, May 20th is celebrated as International Clinical Trials Day to mark the day the world’s first controlled clinical trial was conducted in 1747.
Commenting on retaining the focus on patients for this year's International Clinical trials Day activities, Dr. Chirag Trivedi, President of ISCR said, "Every medicine or treatment we take has been made possible because of a patient who participated in a clinical trial. Our theme Patients First acknowledges the selfless contribution and our appreciation of clinical trial patients in bringing new drugs and new treatment to market. It is also dedicated to patients who are still waiting in hope of a better quality of life made possible through new treatment and to whom we commit the work we do as clinical research professionals."
India has 17 per cent of the world's population and 20 per cent of the global disease burden and yet, less than 1.4 per cent of global trials take place in India. “We call upon all clinical research professionals and patients in the country to join us in commemorating International Clinical Trials Day. We need greater awareness created about clinical research so that patient are aware of their rights and responsibilities. We need to encourage more innovation and research and development in India to make Make in India a reality for clinical research. We also need to ensure that global stakeholders are aware about the balanced regulatory environment we have in the country today. More clinical trials in India will mean that more patients can access the benefits of more effective and newer treatment,” added Dr. Trivedi.
The Indian Society for Clinical Research (ISCR), an association of clinical research professionals, has this year retained its theme of Patients First for International Clinical Trials Day 2017. Each year, May 20th is celebrated as International Clinical Trials Day to mark the day the world’s first controlled clinical trial was conducted in 1747.
Commenting on retaining the focus on patients for this year's International Clinical trials Day activities, Dr. Chirag Trivedi, President of ISCR said, "Every medicine or treatment we take has been made possible because of a patient who participated in a clinical trial. Our theme Patients First acknowledges the selfless contribution and our appreciation of clinical trial patients in bringing new drugs and new treatment to market. It is also dedicated to patients who are still waiting in hope of a better quality of life made possible through new treatment and to whom we commit the work we do as clinical research professionals."
India has 17 per cent of the world's population and 20 per cent of the global disease burden and yet, less than 1.4 per cent of global trials take place in India. “We call upon all clinical research professionals and patients in the country to join us in commemorating International Clinical Trials Day. We need greater awareness created about clinical research so that patient are aware of their rights and responsibilities. We need to encourage more innovation and research and development in India to make Make in India a reality for clinical research. We also need to ensure that global stakeholders are aware about the balanced regulatory environment we have in the country today. More clinical trials in India will mean that more patients can access the benefits of more effective and newer treatment,” added Dr. Trivedi.
India to Help Protect Children from the Life-threatening Pneumococcal Disease
Pfizer announced that its 13-valent Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine has been selected for inclusion in India’s immunization program in select states. In the first phase, the program will cover approximately 5.15 million babies – 20 per cent of around 26 million children of India’s birth cohort. Globally, pneumococcal disease is one of the leading causes of deaths in children younger than 5 years of age. In India, according to the Farooqui article published in 2015, approximately 105,000 children had died of pneumococcal pneumonia in 2010.
The 13-valent Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine (PCV 13) is the most widely used pneumococcal conjugate vaccine in the world, with deployment in over 100 countries’ immunization program. PCV 13 vaccine provides the broadest serotype coverage including those serotypes most prevalent in India. Epidemiological studies conducted in India confirm that the PCV 13 vaccine provides higher coverage than any other PCV vaccine. The additional strains that PCV 13 covers are 3, 6A and 19A.
PCV 13 will be introduced in a multi dose vial format in India. This presentation has been specially developed by Pfizer to enhance efficiencies of public immunization programs.
"The Government of India has made reaching every child with vaccines as a key priority. With the introduction of PCV 13, we will able to help protect India's birth cohort of 26 million children from the leading cause of child deaths in the country. Pfizer remains committed to supporting the Government and its partners in expanding the introduction of PCV 13 in the country such that every child in India gets access to protection from pneumococcal diseases", said S. Sridhar, Country Manager, Pfizer India.
For the first phase of expansion, the vaccine will be supplied directly by Pfizer Inc. through UNICEF, under the auspices of Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance’s Advance Market Commitment – an innovative funding mechanism that provides Gavi eligible and Gavi graduated countries with access to advanced life-saving
Pfizer announced that its 13-valent Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine has been selected for inclusion in India’s immunization program in select states. In the first phase, the program will cover approximately 5.15 million babies – 20 per cent of around 26 million children of India’s birth cohort. Globally, pneumococcal disease is one of the leading causes of deaths in children younger than 5 years of age. In India, according to the Farooqui article published in 2015, approximately 105,000 children had died of pneumococcal pneumonia in 2010.
The 13-valent Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine (PCV 13) is the most widely used pneumococcal conjugate vaccine in the world, with deployment in over 100 countries’ immunization program. PCV 13 vaccine provides the broadest serotype coverage including those serotypes most prevalent in India. Epidemiological studies conducted in India confirm that the PCV 13 vaccine provides higher coverage than any other PCV vaccine. The additional strains that PCV 13 covers are 3, 6A and 19A.
PCV 13 will be introduced in a multi dose vial format in India. This presentation has been specially developed by Pfizer to enhance efficiencies of public immunization programs.
"The Government of India has made reaching every child with vaccines as a key priority. With the introduction of PCV 13, we will able to help protect India's birth cohort of 26 million children from the leading cause of child deaths in the country. Pfizer remains committed to supporting the Government and its partners in expanding the introduction of PCV 13 in the country such that every child in India gets access to protection from pneumococcal diseases", said S. Sridhar, Country Manager, Pfizer India.
For the first phase of expansion, the vaccine will be supplied directly by Pfizer Inc. through UNICEF, under the auspices of Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance’s Advance Market Commitment – an innovative funding mechanism that provides Gavi eligible and Gavi graduated countries with access to advanced life-saving
US FDA Approves Dr. Reddy's Doxorubicin Hydrochloride Liposome Injection
Dr. Reddy's Laboratories Ltd has received approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (USFDA) to launch Doxorubicin Hydrochloride Liposome Injection, a therapeutic equivalent generic version of Doxil (doxorubicin hydrochloride liposome injection), for intravenous use, in the United States market. USFDA approval is an outcome of extensive collaboration with the company's partner, Natco Pharma Ltd, on R&D and manufacturing capabilities.
"This approval represents the first of its kind for Dr. Reddy's in the complex depot injectables arena," explains Alok Sonig, Executive Vice President and Head of the North America Generics business at Dr. Reddy's Laboratories. "It is a testament to our commitment to bring affordable generic medicines to market for patients. The approval further validates our capabilities to successfully develop and manufacture complex liposomal formulations. We are preparing for a commercial launch soon."
"We are pleased with our partnership with Dr.Reddy's Laboratories. This approval would not have been possible without their guidance and support," says Rajeev Nannapaneni, Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Natco Pharma.
The Doxil brand and generic had U.S. sales of approximately USD 196 million MAT for the most recent twelve months ending in March 2017 according to IMS Health*.
Dr. Reddy's Doxorubicin Hydrochloride Liposome Injection is a sterile, translucent, red liposomal dispersion in 10-mL or 30-mL glass, single-dose vials. Each 10-mL vial contains 20 mg doxorubicin hydrochloride at a concentration of 2 mg/mL. Each 30-mL vial contains 50 mg doxorubicin hydrochloride at a concentration of 2 mg/mL.
Dr. Reddy's Laboratories Ltd has received approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (USFDA) to launch Doxorubicin Hydrochloride Liposome Injection, a therapeutic equivalent generic version of Doxil (doxorubicin hydrochloride liposome injection), for intravenous use, in the United States market. USFDA approval is an outcome of extensive collaboration with the company's partner, Natco Pharma Ltd, on R&D and manufacturing capabilities.
"This approval represents the first of its kind for Dr. Reddy's in the complex depot injectables arena," explains Alok Sonig, Executive Vice President and Head of the North America Generics business at Dr. Reddy's Laboratories. "It is a testament to our commitment to bring affordable generic medicines to market for patients. The approval further validates our capabilities to successfully develop and manufacture complex liposomal formulations. We are preparing for a commercial launch soon."
"We are pleased with our partnership with Dr.Reddy's Laboratories. This approval would not have been possible without their guidance and support," says Rajeev Nannapaneni, Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Natco Pharma.
The Doxil brand and generic had U.S. sales of approximately USD 196 million MAT for the most recent twelve months ending in March 2017 according to IMS Health*.
Dr. Reddy's Doxorubicin Hydrochloride Liposome Injection is a sterile, translucent, red liposomal dispersion in 10-mL or 30-mL glass, single-dose vials. Each 10-mL vial contains 20 mg doxorubicin hydrochloride at a concentration of 2 mg/mL. Each 30-mL vial contains 50 mg doxorubicin hydrochloride at a concentration of 2 mg/mL.
Agilent Technologies Announces Expanded Use for PD-L1 IHC 28-8 pharmDx Diagnostic in Europe
Agilent Technologies Inc announced the expanded use of Agilent´s Dako PD-L1 IHC 28-8 pharmDx test for squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (SCCHN), the most prevalent type of head and neck cancer.
Europe is the first region to launch a PD-L1 CE-IVD test for SCCHN globally. The CE marking demonstrates that the product meets all relevant European Medical Device Directives. The PD-L1 IHC 28-8 pharmDx test has broad utility, as it has already been previously CE marked for tumor cell PD-L1 expression for non-squamous, non-small-cell lung cancer (ns-NSCLC) and melanoma.
With this latest indication, pathologists in Europe now have access to a clinically validated test to determine tumor PD-L1 status PD-L1, in patients with SCCHN. There are currently few treatment options for SCCHN, but this new test can identify which patients could most likely benefit from treatment with Opdivo (nivolumab), an immunotherapy developed by Bristol-Myers Squibb. Opdivo as monotherapy is indicated for the treatment of squamous cell cancer of the head and neck in adults progressing on, or after platinum-based therapy.
Data from a pre-specified exploratory analysis of the Checkmate 141 clinical trial showed that tumor PD-L1 expression, as detected by PD-L1 IHC 28-8 pharmDx in SCCHN, may be associated with an enhanced survival benefit for the patient from the use of Opdivo.
Immunotherapies are designed to help an individual´s immune system detect and kill cancer cells. Because individual patients often respond differently to the same treatment, scientists have been focusing emphasis on personalized medicine, which is where Agilent´s Dako brand of diagnostics comes into play, providing important information about the status of key biomarkers in individual cancer patients.
Agilent Technologies Inc announced the expanded use of Agilent´s Dako PD-L1 IHC 28-8 pharmDx test for squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (SCCHN), the most prevalent type of head and neck cancer.
Europe is the first region to launch a PD-L1 CE-IVD test for SCCHN globally. The CE marking demonstrates that the product meets all relevant European Medical Device Directives. The PD-L1 IHC 28-8 pharmDx test has broad utility, as it has already been previously CE marked for tumor cell PD-L1 expression for non-squamous, non-small-cell lung cancer (ns-NSCLC) and melanoma.
With this latest indication, pathologists in Europe now have access to a clinically validated test to determine tumor PD-L1 status PD-L1, in patients with SCCHN. There are currently few treatment options for SCCHN, but this new test can identify which patients could most likely benefit from treatment with Opdivo (nivolumab), an immunotherapy developed by Bristol-Myers Squibb. Opdivo as monotherapy is indicated for the treatment of squamous cell cancer of the head and neck in adults progressing on, or after platinum-based therapy.
Data from a pre-specified exploratory analysis of the Checkmate 141 clinical trial showed that tumor PD-L1 expression, as detected by PD-L1 IHC 28-8 pharmDx in SCCHN, may be associated with an enhanced survival benefit for the patient from the use of Opdivo.
Immunotherapies are designed to help an individual´s immune system detect and kill cancer cells. Because individual patients often respond differently to the same treatment, scientists have been focusing emphasis on personalized medicine, which is where Agilent´s Dako brand of diagnostics comes into play, providing important information about the status of key biomarkers in individual cancer patients.
Glenmark Pharmaceuticals to Initiate Clinical Study for GBR 1342
Glenmark Pharmaceuticals, a global pharmaceutical company, announced that the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) cleared the company's Investigational New Drug (IND) application to initiate a Phase 1 study of GBR 1342, a humanized, bispecific monoclonal antibody (bsAb) being studied for the treatment of multiple myeloma in patients who have received prior therapies. GBR 1342 is designed to activate the patient's immune system by redirecting immune cells towards tumor tissue, which may lead to targeted destruction of tumors. It is based on Glenmark’s proprietary BEAT (Bispecific Engagement by Antibodies based on the T cell receptor) technology platform.
,br /> "This is an exciting time for Glenmark as our flagship biotechnology platform and antibody science are beginning to become a reality for patients, now that we have a second oncology candidate entering clinical trials," said Kurt Stoeckli, President and Chief Scientific Officer at Glenmark Pharmaceuticals. "While there is still significant development ahead, these steps signify that Glenmark's investment in discovery and development of biologics is rapidly progressing." The first-in-human Phase 1 study of GBR 1342 will enroll subjects with multiple myeloma who have exhausted available therapies. The study is being conducted in two parts: the first part is a dose escalation to determine the safety profile and maximum tolerable dose; the second is an expansion cohort treated at maximum tolerable dose to further investigate the safety profile and preliminary efficacy of GBR 1342.
GBR 1342 simultaneously engages CD38, a proven target in multiple myeloma, and the CD3 molecule on T cells. GBR 1342 is also being considered for the treatment of other malignancies.
Glenmark Pharmaceuticals, a global pharmaceutical company, announced that the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) cleared the company's Investigational New Drug (IND) application to initiate a Phase 1 study of GBR 1342, a humanized, bispecific monoclonal antibody (bsAb) being studied for the treatment of multiple myeloma in patients who have received prior therapies. GBR 1342 is designed to activate the patient's immune system by redirecting immune cells towards tumor tissue, which may lead to targeted destruction of tumors. It is based on Glenmark’s proprietary BEAT (Bispecific Engagement by Antibodies based on the T cell receptor) technology platform.
,br /> "This is an exciting time for Glenmark as our flagship biotechnology platform and antibody science are beginning to become a reality for patients, now that we have a second oncology candidate entering clinical trials," said Kurt Stoeckli, President and Chief Scientific Officer at Glenmark Pharmaceuticals. "While there is still significant development ahead, these steps signify that Glenmark's investment in discovery and development of biologics is rapidly progressing." The first-in-human Phase 1 study of GBR 1342 will enroll subjects with multiple myeloma who have exhausted available therapies. The study is being conducted in two parts: the first part is a dose escalation to determine the safety profile and maximum tolerable dose; the second is an expansion cohort treated at maximum tolerable dose to further investigate the safety profile and preliminary efficacy of GBR 1342.
GBR 1342 simultaneously engages CD38, a proven target in multiple myeloma, and the CD3 molecule on T cells. GBR 1342 is also being considered for the treatment of other malignancies.
Merck to Build Hypertension Experts Platform Across the Globe
Merck, a leading science and technology company in healthcare, life science and performance materials, marks World Hypertension Day with the announcement of the 2016 'Merck Hypertension Award' winners and the call for applications for the 2017 Hypertension Award. The award as part of the Merck Capacity Advancement Program was launched in April 2016 in partnership with African and Asian universities with the aim of building a platform of hypertension experts across the globe.
In Kampala, Uganda, Rasha Kelej, Senior Vice President and Chief Social Officer, Merck Healthcare emphasized: "Merck plays an important role in building diabetes and hypertension care capacity and improving access to quality and sustainable healthcare solutions in developing countries. Today marks an important day in the fight against hypertension as we mark the World Hypertension Day. In this context, we have announced ten Merck Hypertension Award 2016 winners."
Merck invited medical students to apply for the "Merck Hypertension Award 2016" with the theme of "What the Healthy Heart needs." Students across African and Asian medical universities were asked to submit a concept paper on how to improve hypertension awareness, early detection and prevention in their countries and how to encourage their society, scientific community, local authorities, media and relevant stakeholders to ‘think and act' on hypertension every day.
The scientific committee received over 500 concept submission applications from universities in Africa and Asia and 10 winners were selected for the award. Winners from each university have been granted a one year postgraduate Preventive Cardiovascular Medicine diploma with the University of South Wales, United Kingdom.
"Merck Hypertension Award is another step in our long term commitment to support hypertension care strategy through working with local governments, academia and relevant stakeholders in building healthcare capacity with a focus on diabetes, hypertension and other non-communicable diseases in various countries in Asia-Pacific, Middle East, Africa and Latin America," added Rasha Kelej when making the announcement of the winners during an event in Nairobi, Kenya.
Merck, a leading science and technology company in healthcare, life science and performance materials, marks World Hypertension Day with the announcement of the 2016 'Merck Hypertension Award' winners and the call for applications for the 2017 Hypertension Award. The award as part of the Merck Capacity Advancement Program was launched in April 2016 in partnership with African and Asian universities with the aim of building a platform of hypertension experts across the globe.
In Kampala, Uganda, Rasha Kelej, Senior Vice President and Chief Social Officer, Merck Healthcare emphasized: "Merck plays an important role in building diabetes and hypertension care capacity and improving access to quality and sustainable healthcare solutions in developing countries. Today marks an important day in the fight against hypertension as we mark the World Hypertension Day. In this context, we have announced ten Merck Hypertension Award 2016 winners."
Merck invited medical students to apply for the "Merck Hypertension Award 2016" with the theme of "What the Healthy Heart needs." Students across African and Asian medical universities were asked to submit a concept paper on how to improve hypertension awareness, early detection and prevention in their countries and how to encourage their society, scientific community, local authorities, media and relevant stakeholders to ‘think and act' on hypertension every day.
The scientific committee received over 500 concept submission applications from universities in Africa and Asia and 10 winners were selected for the award. Winners from each university have been granted a one year postgraduate Preventive Cardiovascular Medicine diploma with the University of South Wales, United Kingdom.
"Merck Hypertension Award is another step in our long term commitment to support hypertension care strategy through working with local governments, academia and relevant stakeholders in building healthcare capacity with a focus on diabetes, hypertension and other non-communicable diseases in various countries in Asia-Pacific, Middle East, Africa and Latin America," added Rasha Kelej when making the announcement of the winners during an event in Nairobi, Kenya.
Shire Launches "Rare Count" Campaign
Shire plc has announced the launch of "Rare Count" in honor of Rare Disease Day and the 350 million people worldwide living with rare diseases, which equates to nearly one in 20 global citizens. It is estimated that 50 per cent of rare diseases begin in childhood. The campaign, open for all to participate at www. shire.com/RareCount, highlights the under-recognized prevalence of rare diseases.
Speaking on the launch of the campaign on World Rare Disease Day, Vineet Singhal, Country Head, Baxalta Bioscience India Pvt. Ltd (now part of Shire) said, "Awareness about Rare Diseases in India is very minimal and there is a dire need to create awareness on the importance of timely and appropriate diagnosis that can help make difference in the lives of patients suffering from rare diseases. The Rare Count campaign in India and Globally will aim to reach out to such patients through social media platforms. As 66 per cent of the 180 million Internet users in urban India regularly access social media platforms, we strongly feel this campaign will help in reaching out to rare disease patients. At Shire we are committed to these patients and put their wellness first."
The Rare Count campaign applies the "one in 20" rare disease statistic to calculate the potential number of contacts in a user's social network who could be living with a rare disease. The shareable result represents the user's "Rare Count"and underscores the potential personal impact of rare diseases.
Anyone can go to www.shire.com/RareCount to calculate and share their individualized Rare Count through Facebook, Twitter or LinkedIn. For every person who participates, Shire will contribute USD 1, up to USD 10,000 to each of the following umbrella patient advocacy groups focused on rare diseases: National Organization for Rare Disorders, Global Genes and EURORDIS (Rare Diseases Europe).
Shire plc has announced the launch of "Rare Count" in honor of Rare Disease Day and the 350 million people worldwide living with rare diseases, which equates to nearly one in 20 global citizens. It is estimated that 50 per cent of rare diseases begin in childhood. The campaign, open for all to participate at www. shire.com/RareCount, highlights the under-recognized prevalence of rare diseases.
Speaking on the launch of the campaign on World Rare Disease Day, Vineet Singhal, Country Head, Baxalta Bioscience India Pvt. Ltd (now part of Shire) said, "Awareness about Rare Diseases in India is very minimal and there is a dire need to create awareness on the importance of timely and appropriate diagnosis that can help make difference in the lives of patients suffering from rare diseases. The Rare Count campaign in India and Globally will aim to reach out to such patients through social media platforms. As 66 per cent of the 180 million Internet users in urban India regularly access social media platforms, we strongly feel this campaign will help in reaching out to rare disease patients. At Shire we are committed to these patients and put their wellness first."
The Rare Count campaign applies the "one in 20" rare disease statistic to calculate the potential number of contacts in a user's social network who could be living with a rare disease. The shareable result represents the user's "Rare Count"and underscores the potential personal impact of rare diseases.
Anyone can go to www.shire.com/RareCount to calculate and share their individualized Rare Count through Facebook, Twitter or LinkedIn. For every person who participates, Shire will contribute USD 1, up to USD 10,000 to each of the following umbrella patient advocacy groups focused on rare diseases: National Organization for Rare Disorders, Global Genes and EURORDIS (Rare Diseases Europe).
CelluGen Counters LifeCell's Claims
of being Pioneer in UCB Pool Banking
Leading stem cell research organization CelluGen Biotech has challenged LifeCell's recent claim of being the pioneer of Pool/Shared Private Umbilcal Cord Blood banking Banking in India, contending that it was Cellugen that initiated the first UCB pool banking in the world with its revolutionary initiative Mycord.
In 2016, CelluGen Biotech redefined umbilical cord blood banking in India by introducing the Mycord Precious Pool Plan, to create a private pool of umbilical cord blood units. This was the first such private effort in the country that desperately needed shared UCB bankin g. While Lifecell's foray into the field is welcome, it is incorrect for the organization to present itself as the pioneer in the shared banking space. In a recent interview, the Managing Director and CEO of LifeCell International Pvt Ltd, Mayur Abhaya has made claims to this effect.
Lalit Jaiswal, Founder-Director, CelluGen Biotech Pvt Ltd has responded to this claim by saying, "We welcome LifeCell into this arena of pool/shared cord blood banking and appreciate their efforts to restructure the concept of umbilical cord banking after a decade of storing cord blood for self-use. It is very important in the interest of parents and the newborn that all private banks transform into shared/ pooled cord blood banks. In fact, we would advice other companies to follow suit."
Leading stem cell research organization CelluGen Biotech has challenged LifeCell's recent claim of being the pioneer of Pool/Shared Private Umbilcal Cord Blood banking Banking in India, contending that it was Cellugen that initiated the first UCB pool banking in the world with its revolutionary initiative Mycord.
In 2016, CelluGen Biotech redefined umbilical cord blood banking in India by introducing the Mycord Precious Pool Plan, to create a private pool of umbilical cord blood units. This was the first such private effort in the country that desperately needed shared UCB bankin g. While Lifecell's foray into the field is welcome, it is incorrect for the organization to present itself as the pioneer in the shared banking space. In a recent interview, the Managing Director and CEO of LifeCell International Pvt Ltd, Mayur Abhaya has made claims to this effect.
Lalit Jaiswal, Founder-Director, CelluGen Biotech Pvt Ltd has responded to this claim by saying, "We welcome LifeCell into this arena of pool/shared cord blood banking and appreciate their efforts to restructure the concept of umbilical cord banking after a decade of storing cord blood for self-use. It is very important in the interest of parents and the newborn that all private banks transform into shared/ pooled cord blood banks. In fact, we would advice other companies to follow suit."
Sanofi and Regeneron Announce FDA
Approval of Dupixent
Sanofi and Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc has announced that the US FDA approved Dupixent (dupilumab) Injection, the first and only biologic medicine approved for the treatment of adults with moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis (AD) whose disease is not adequately controlled with topical prescription therapies, or when those therapies are not advisable.
"People with moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis cope with intense, sometimes unbearable symptoms that can impact them for most of their lives," said Julie Block, President and Chief Executive Officer, National Eczema Association. "To date, there have been few options available to treat people with moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis who have uncontrolled disease. That's why today's approval of Dupixent is so important for our community. Now we have a treatment that is expected to help address patients suffering from this devastating disease."
Dupixent is a human monoclonal antibody that is designed to specifically inhibit overactive signaling of two key proteins, IL-4 and IL-13, which are believed to be major drivers of the persistent underlying inflammation in AD. Dupixent comes in a pre-filled syringe and can be self-administered as a subcutaneous injection every other week after an initial loading dose. Dupixent can be used with or without topical corticosteroids. It should not be used in patients who are allergic to dupilumab or any of the ingredients in Dupixent.
AD, the most common form of eczema, is a chronic inflammatory disease with symptoms often appearing as a rash on the skin. Moderate-to-severe AD is characterized by rashes often covering much of the body, and can include intense, persistent itching and skin dryness, cracking, redness, crusting, and oozing. Itch is one of the most burdensome symptoms for patients and can be debilitating. Of the adults with uncontrolled moderate-to-severe AD in the United States, it is estimated that 300,000 are most in need of new treatment options.
Sanofi and Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc has announced that the US FDA approved Dupixent (dupilumab) Injection, the first and only biologic medicine approved for the treatment of adults with moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis (AD) whose disease is not adequately controlled with topical prescription therapies, or when those therapies are not advisable.
"People with moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis cope with intense, sometimes unbearable symptoms that can impact them for most of their lives," said Julie Block, President and Chief Executive Officer, National Eczema Association. "To date, there have been few options available to treat people with moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis who have uncontrolled disease. That's why today's approval of Dupixent is so important for our community. Now we have a treatment that is expected to help address patients suffering from this devastating disease."
Dupixent is a human monoclonal antibody that is designed to specifically inhibit overactive signaling of two key proteins, IL-4 and IL-13, which are believed to be major drivers of the persistent underlying inflammation in AD. Dupixent comes in a pre-filled syringe and can be self-administered as a subcutaneous injection every other week after an initial loading dose. Dupixent can be used with or without topical corticosteroids. It should not be used in patients who are allergic to dupilumab or any of the ingredients in Dupixent.
AD, the most common form of eczema, is a chronic inflammatory disease with symptoms often appearing as a rash on the skin. Moderate-to-severe AD is characterized by rashes often covering much of the body, and can include intense, persistent itching and skin dryness, cracking, redness, crusting, and oozing. Itch is one of the most burdensome symptoms for patients and can be debilitating. Of the adults with uncontrolled moderate-to-severe AD in the United States, it is estimated that 300,000 are most in need of new treatment options.
Agilent to Showcase Breakthrough
Analytical Solutions
Agilent Technologies has announced that it will host the 'Total Agilent Experience' (TAE) symposium for the first time in Mumbai, on June 6-7, 2017. More than 500 scientists and researchers from commercial, scientific and research communities are expected to attend this symposium that has been held in a different region throughout Southeast Asia since 2011.
At the event, Agilent will showcase new platforms that will include: the Intuvo 9000 GC, the 4210 MP-AES, the 5110 ICP-OES and its liquid chromatography and mass-spectroscopy solutions. These analytical instruments can be used by scientists, chemists and laboratory professionals working in key industries such as pharmaceuticals, food, research, agriculture, chemicals, petrochemical and mining.
Using the sophisticated, user-friendly technologies offered by these platforms, scientists are now able to work on a wider range of challenging applications with improved performance and ease of use, whilst also increasing laboratory productivity and economic value.
Bhardwaj , country manager of Agilent Technologies India said, "Agilent takes all customer feedback seriously when it comes to developing new products. Concerns such as increasing laboratory productivity, and ease of use of both software and hardware consistently rate highly. As well as with the exhibition of our groundbreaking technology, we will also be hosting a Pharma Regulatory Summit, and a Food Safety Summit, where industry experts will share their insights on the emerging trends that are driving adoption of these technologies in these areas. The Total Agilent Experience aims to build a platform for the scientific community to share their concerns and suggest strategies to overcome these hurdles. We are committed to providing our customers with the best tools to meet their application needs."
Agilent Technologies has announced that it will host the 'Total Agilent Experience' (TAE) symposium for the first time in Mumbai, on June 6-7, 2017. More than 500 scientists and researchers from commercial, scientific and research communities are expected to attend this symposium that has been held in a different region throughout Southeast Asia since 2011.
At the event, Agilent will showcase new platforms that will include: the Intuvo 9000 GC, the 4210 MP-AES, the 5110 ICP-OES and its liquid chromatography and mass-spectroscopy solutions. These analytical instruments can be used by scientists, chemists and laboratory professionals working in key industries such as pharmaceuticals, food, research, agriculture, chemicals, petrochemical and mining.
Using the sophisticated, user-friendly technologies offered by these platforms, scientists are now able to work on a wider range of challenging applications with improved performance and ease of use, whilst also increasing laboratory productivity and economic value.
Bhardwaj , country manager of Agilent Technologies India said, "Agilent takes all customer feedback seriously when it comes to developing new products. Concerns such as increasing laboratory productivity, and ease of use of both software and hardware consistently rate highly. As well as with the exhibition of our groundbreaking technology, we will also be hosting a Pharma Regulatory Summit, and a Food Safety Summit, where industry experts will share their insights on the emerging trends that are driving adoption of these technologies in these areas. The Total Agilent Experience aims to build a platform for the scientific community to share their concerns and suggest strategies to overcome these hurdles. We are committed to providing our customers with the best tools to meet their application needs."
Dr. Reddy's and Integra LifeSciences
Ink Exclusive Distribution Deal
Dr. Reddy's Laboratories Limited and Integra LifeSciences Holdings Corporation, a leading global medical technology company, have entered into an exclusive distribution agreement. Under the agreement, Dr. Reddy's will market and distribute DuraGen Plus and Suturable DuraGen Dural Regeneration Matrices for use in patients in India.
The DuraGen product line offers Duraplasty Solutions meant for the repair of the dura mater. Dura mater is a thick membrane that surrounds the brain and spinal cord, and contains the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). DuraGen Plus Dural Regeneration Matrix is indicated as a dural substitute for the repair of dura mater. It offers a simple technique for precise placement of the matrix as an onlay graft in cranial and spinal procedures, and easily conforms to the complex surfaces of exposed neural tissue. It provides effective protection against CSF leakage with sutureless closure and is fully resorbed and replaced by native tissue with complete dural closure.
Suturable DuraGen matrix is a versatile graft that can be sutured and is designed for repairing dural defects where mechanical anchoring of the graft is preferred. This offers excellent suture retention with all the benefits of DuraGen Plus Matrix.
Integra's DuraGen products have been implanted in more than 1.8 million patients worldwide to effect dural closure following neurosurgical procedures. Integra manufactures the DuraGen family of products based on its proprietary Ultra Pure Collagen technology platfor m.
Dr. Reddy's Laboratories Limited and Integra LifeSciences Holdings Corporation, a leading global medical technology company, have entered into an exclusive distribution agreement. Under the agreement, Dr. Reddy's will market and distribute DuraGen Plus and Suturable DuraGen Dural Regeneration Matrices for use in patients in India.
The DuraGen product line offers Duraplasty Solutions meant for the repair of the dura mater. Dura mater is a thick membrane that surrounds the brain and spinal cord, and contains the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). DuraGen Plus Dural Regeneration Matrix is indicated as a dural substitute for the repair of dura mater. It offers a simple technique for precise placement of the matrix as an onlay graft in cranial and spinal procedures, and easily conforms to the complex surfaces of exposed neural tissue. It provides effective protection against CSF leakage with sutureless closure and is fully resorbed and replaced by native tissue with complete dural closure.
Suturable DuraGen matrix is a versatile graft that can be sutured and is designed for repairing dural defects where mechanical anchoring of the graft is preferred. This offers excellent suture retention with all the benefits of DuraGen Plus Matrix.
Integra's DuraGen products have been implanted in more than 1.8 million patients worldwide to effect dural closure following neurosurgical procedures. Integra manufactures the DuraGen family of products based on its proprietary Ultra Pure Collagen technology platfor m.
Biogaran Takes Over Swipha's
Activities in Nigeria
Biogaran, a French pharmaceutical company specialized in generic and biosimilar medicines, and a subsidiary of Servier has announced the takeover of all the activities of Swipha, a Nigerian company that manufactures and distributes pharmaceutical products known for their quality. This is an important step forward in the internationalization of the French company Biogaran.
In order to develop new markets to meet its commitment to provide all patients with quality medication, Biogaran, a pioneer in generics and biosimilars, and a subsidiary of Servier, has just taken over Swipha, a Nigerian pharmaceutical company that produces medicines to meet local health needs. Its portfolio is mainly focused on three families of products: anti-anxiety and tranquillizers, antimalarial drugs and antibiotics, which treat Nigeria's most widespread infections and health issues.
Swipha was the first Nigerian pharmaceutical company to obtain ISO 9001 certification in 2007. Approved by the World Health Organization (WHO) in 2014, Swipha employs 300 people locally and generated record sales of NGN 4bn (approximately € 20 million) in 2012. Beyond its production unit, the company also has a wide distribution network covering most parts of Nigeria, Africa's most dynamic country, with more than 184 million inhabitants in 2016 according to the IMF.
Health issues are particularly important in Africa. Beyond significant needs for good quality, affordable and efficient medicines, the problem of counterfeits is also becoming of concern. The WHO estimates that 100,000 deaths are due to fake medicines in Africa every year. In this context, supplying Nigeria's population with reliable medicines that are produced locally is a strong commitment made by Biogaran.
Biogaran, a French pharmaceutical company specialized in generic and biosimilar medicines, and a subsidiary of Servier has announced the takeover of all the activities of Swipha, a Nigerian company that manufactures and distributes pharmaceutical products known for their quality. This is an important step forward in the internationalization of the French company Biogaran.
In order to develop new markets to meet its commitment to provide all patients with quality medication, Biogaran, a pioneer in generics and biosimilars, and a subsidiary of Servier, has just taken over Swipha, a Nigerian pharmaceutical company that produces medicines to meet local health needs. Its portfolio is mainly focused on three families of products: anti-anxiety and tranquillizers, antimalarial drugs and antibiotics, which treat Nigeria's most widespread infections and health issues.
Swipha was the first Nigerian pharmaceutical company to obtain ISO 9001 certification in 2007. Approved by the World Health Organization (WHO) in 2014, Swipha employs 300 people locally and generated record sales of NGN 4bn (approximately € 20 million) in 2012. Beyond its production unit, the company also has a wide distribution network covering most parts of Nigeria, Africa's most dynamic country, with more than 184 million inhabitants in 2016 according to the IMF.
Health issues are particularly important in Africa. Beyond significant needs for good quality, affordable and efficient medicines, the problem of counterfeits is also becoming of concern. The WHO estimates that 100,000 deaths are due to fake medicines in Africa every year. In this context, supplying Nigeria's population with reliable medicines that are produced locally is a strong commitment made by Biogaran.
Shire Launches "Rare Count" Campaign
Shire plc has announced the launch of "Rare Count" in honor of Rare Disease Day and the 350 million people worldwide living with rare diseases, which equates to nearly one in 20 global citizens. It is estimated that 50 per cent of rare diseases begin in childhood. The campaign highlights the under-recognized prevalence of rare diseases.
Speaking on the launch of the campaign on World Rare Disease Day, Mr, Vineet Singhal, Country Head, Baxalta Bioscience India Pvt. Ltd (now part of Shire) said, "Awareness about Rare Diseases in India is very minimal and there is a dire need to create awareness on the importance of timely and appropriate diagnosis that can help make difference in the lives of patients suffering from rare diseases. The Rare Count campaign in India and Globally will aim to reach out to such patients through social media platforms. As 66 per cent of the 180 million Internet users in urban India regularly access social media platforms, we strongly feel this campaign will help in reaching out to rare disease patients. At Shire we are committed to these patients and put their wellness first."
Today, there are about 7,000 known rare diseases. While rare disease communities are small, the overall prevalence of rare diseases may be higher than the public recognizes. Since low awareness can contribute to the ongoing challenges facing people living with rare diseases, public education is critical. Shire is timing The Rare Count campaign to coincide with Rare Disease Day, an annual awareness day focused on educating the public about rare diseases and their associated challenges goal of providing new treatment options that meet significant unmet medical needs.
Shire plc has announced the launch of "Rare Count" in honor of Rare Disease Day and the 350 million people worldwide living with rare diseases, which equates to nearly one in 20 global citizens. It is estimated that 50 per cent of rare diseases begin in childhood. The campaign highlights the under-recognized prevalence of rare diseases.
Speaking on the launch of the campaign on World Rare Disease Day, Mr, Vineet Singhal, Country Head, Baxalta Bioscience India Pvt. Ltd (now part of Shire) said, "Awareness about Rare Diseases in India is very minimal and there is a dire need to create awareness on the importance of timely and appropriate diagnosis that can help make difference in the lives of patients suffering from rare diseases. The Rare Count campaign in India and Globally will aim to reach out to such patients through social media platforms. As 66 per cent of the 180 million Internet users in urban India regularly access social media platforms, we strongly feel this campaign will help in reaching out to rare disease patients. At Shire we are committed to these patients and put their wellness first."
Today, there are about 7,000 known rare diseases. While rare disease communities are small, the overall prevalence of rare diseases may be higher than the public recognizes. Since low awareness can contribute to the ongoing challenges facing people living with rare diseases, public education is critical. Shire is timing The Rare Count campaign to coincide with Rare Disease Day, an annual awareness day focused on educating the public about rare diseases and their associated challenges goal of providing new treatment options that meet significant unmet medical needs.
Ingersoll Rand Joins Paradigm for
Parity Coalition
Ingersoll Rand, a world leader in creating comfortable, sustainable and efficient environments, joined the Paradigm for Parity coalition and pledged to bring gender parity to its corporate leadership structure by 2030. The first in its industry to pledge, Ingersoll Rand has united with nearly 40 other companies in the coalition to address the corporate leadership gender gap. The company currently offers resources designed to engage and support women, including women's leadership and mentorship programs. In 2014, Ingersoll Rand established its 2020 Sustainability Goals, including clear targets to attract and retain an increase in the number of women in leadership and professional roles. The company's Sustainability Goals in this area also align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals for gender equality.
Ingersoll Rand, a world leader in creating comfortable, sustainable and efficient environments, joined the Paradigm for Parity coalition and pledged to bring gender parity to its corporate leadership structure by 2030. The first in its industry to pledge, Ingersoll Rand has united with nearly 40 other companies in the coalition to address the corporate leadership gender gap. The company currently offers resources designed to engage and support women, including women's leadership and mentorship programs. In 2014, Ingersoll Rand established its 2020 Sustainability Goals, including clear targets to attract and retain an increase in the number of women in leadership and professional roles. The company's Sustainability Goals in this area also align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals for gender equality.
Glenmark Pharmaceuticals Receives
FDA Clearance of IND for GSP 304
Glenmark Pharmaceuticals, a global pharmaceutical company, has announced that the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) cleared the Company's Investigational New Drug (IND) application to begin a Phase 2 study of GSP 304 (tiotropium bromide) for administration by nebulization for the long term, once-daily, maintenance treatment of bronchospasm associated with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Glenmark plans to initiate clinical development with a Phase 2 study of GSP 304, a new orally administered formulation, in subjects with mild to moderate COPD, as determined by the Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) criteria. The efficacy, pharmacokinetics, and safety profiles of currently available formulations of tiotropium bromide are well established. "Respiratory is a core area of focus for Glenmark as we continue to harness our heritage in generics and evolve into a specialty, innovation-focused company," said Fred Grossman D.O., President and Chief Medical Officer at Glenmark Pharmaceuticals Inc. "Moving GSP 304 into Phase 2 is a great example of that focus and, if approved, will be the first nebulized form of tiotropium bromide. This milestone further affirms our
Glenmark Pharmaceuticals, a global pharmaceutical company, has announced that the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) cleared the Company's Investigational New Drug (IND) application to begin a Phase 2 study of GSP 304 (tiotropium bromide) for administration by nebulization for the long term, once-daily, maintenance treatment of bronchospasm associated with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Glenmark plans to initiate clinical development with a Phase 2 study of GSP 304, a new orally administered formulation, in subjects with mild to moderate COPD, as determined by the Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) criteria. The efficacy, pharmacokinetics, and safety profiles of currently available formulations of tiotropium bromide are well established. "Respiratory is a core area of focus for Glenmark as we continue to harness our heritage in generics and evolve into a specialty, innovation-focused company," said Fred Grossman D.O., President and Chief Medical Officer at Glenmark Pharmaceuticals Inc. "Moving GSP 304 into Phase 2 is a great example of that focus and, if approved, will be the first nebulized form of tiotropium bromide. This milestone further affirms our
USFDA to Lift Import Alert on Sun
Pharma's Mohali Facility
Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd was informed by the US FDA, that it will lift the Import Alert imposed on the Mohali (Punjab) manufacturing facility and remove the facility from the Official Action Initiated (OAI) status. This proposed action will clear the path for Sun Pharma to supply approved products from the Mohali facility to the US market, subject to normal US FDA regulatory requirements.
The Mohali facility was inherited by Sun Pharma as part of its acquisition of Ranbaxy Laboratories Ltd. in 2015. The US FDA had taken action against the Mohali facility in 2013 when it ordered the facility to be fully subject to Ranbaxy's Consent Decree of Permanent Injunction. Certain conditions of the consent decree will continue to be applicable to the Mohali facility. This development illustrates Sun Pharma's commitment to work closely with the US FDA and strive for 100 per cent cGMP compliance at its manufacturing facilities.
Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd was informed by the US FDA, that it will lift the Import Alert imposed on the Mohali (Punjab) manufacturing facility and remove the facility from the Official Action Initiated (OAI) status. This proposed action will clear the path for Sun Pharma to supply approved products from the Mohali facility to the US market, subject to normal US FDA regulatory requirements.
The Mohali facility was inherited by Sun Pharma as part of its acquisition of Ranbaxy Laboratories Ltd. in 2015. The US FDA had taken action against the Mohali facility in 2013 when it ordered the facility to be fully subject to Ranbaxy's Consent Decree of Permanent Injunction. Certain conditions of the consent decree will continue to be applicable to the Mohali facility. This development illustrates Sun Pharma's commitment to work closely with the US FDA and strive for 100 per cent cGMP compliance at its manufacturing facilities.
The Fragile X Society Creates Awareness
for Fragile X Syndrome Care
The first ever 4 city Indo - USA endeavor to create awareness for better Fragile X care in India by The Fragile X Society, India in association with UC DAVIS MIND Institute, USA; along with AIIMS, New Delhi; Institute of Genetics and Genomics, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, New Delhi; Delhi Chapter, Indian Academy of Pediatrics; NIMHANS Bangalore; Indira Gandhi Institute of Child Health,Bangalore; Centre for Human Genetics, Bangalore; Indian Academy of Pediatrics Chapter of Neuro-developmental Pediatrics, Mumbai and New Horizons Health and Research Foundation,Mumbai; was successfully held in Delhi, Bangalore, Kolkata and Mumbai.
The Indo- USA symposium provided a never before platform to expand and develop relationships between Indian and American researchers and clinicians. It was an avenue to exchange knowledge between Indian and American professionals about the latest evidence-based treatments for Fragile X-associated Disorders. Further it also engaged the patient community to expand the reach of the Fragile X Society India.
The Fragile X Syndrome is a rare condition, which is caused by a change in a gene that is inherited at the time of conception. It causes a wide range of cognitive impairment, from mild learning disabilities to severe intellectual disabilities (ID) that can impact individuals and families in various ways. Fragile X Syndrome is the most common known cause of autism or "autistic-like" behaviors. Approximately 1 in 3,600 to 4000 among males and 1 in 4000 to 6000 among females are affected by FXS. Usually, males are more severely affected by this disorder than females. Therefore it is vital to spread awareness among the medical fraternity especially pediatricians and gynecologists' as well as parents and the couples planning to have a child, so that children with Fragile X Syndrome are detected early in life.
The first ever 4 city Indo - USA endeavor to create awareness for better Fragile X care in India by The Fragile X Society, India in association with UC DAVIS MIND Institute, USA; along with AIIMS, New Delhi; Institute of Genetics and Genomics, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, New Delhi; Delhi Chapter, Indian Academy of Pediatrics; NIMHANS Bangalore; Indira Gandhi Institute of Child Health,Bangalore; Centre for Human Genetics, Bangalore; Indian Academy of Pediatrics Chapter of Neuro-developmental Pediatrics, Mumbai and New Horizons Health and Research Foundation,Mumbai; was successfully held in Delhi, Bangalore, Kolkata and Mumbai.
The Indo- USA symposium provided a never before platform to expand and develop relationships between Indian and American researchers and clinicians. It was an avenue to exchange knowledge between Indian and American professionals about the latest evidence-based treatments for Fragile X-associated Disorders. Further it also engaged the patient community to expand the reach of the Fragile X Society India.
The Fragile X Syndrome is a rare condition, which is caused by a change in a gene that is inherited at the time of conception. It causes a wide range of cognitive impairment, from mild learning disabilities to severe intellectual disabilities (ID) that can impact individuals and families in various ways. Fragile X Syndrome is the most common known cause of autism or "autistic-like" behaviors. Approximately 1 in 3,600 to 4000 among males and 1 in 4000 to 6000 among females are affected by FXS. Usually, males are more severely affected by this disorder than females. Therefore it is vital to spread awareness among the medical fraternity especially pediatricians and gynecologists' as well as parents and the couples planning to have a child, so that children with Fragile X Syndrome are detected early in life.
Arindam Haldar Appointed as CEO of
SRL Diagnostics
The Board of Directors of SRL Diagnostics Limited (SRL) has announced the appointment of Arindam Haldar as its new Chief Executive Officer with immediate effect. Arindam had joined SRL in October 2016 as its Chief Operating Officer.
Bringing in over two decades of experience to his role, Arindam has significant industry exposure in Sales, Marketing, M&A and business operations. Earlier he has worked with renowned global brands that includes Colgate, Pillsbury; Häagen-Dazs and Sterlite.
Commenting on the appointment, Malvinder M. Singh, Executive Chairman, SRL Diagnostics, said "The past few years have been a period of significant growth for SRL and it is critical for us to capitalize from this position of strength, to achieve our ambitious goals. I see a very promising future for the diagnostics industry in general and SRL in particular, and am confident, that Arindam with his valuable experience, drive and commitment, will take the organization to its next phase of growth".
On his elevation, Arindam Haldar said, "I thank the Board for reposing faith in me and am delighted to assume this exciting role in SRL Diagnostics. I am looking forward to working with Team SRL to deliver on our strategy for the medium and long term growth of the company"
The Board of Directors of SRL Diagnostics Limited (SRL) has announced the appointment of Arindam Haldar as its new Chief Executive Officer with immediate effect. Arindam had joined SRL in October 2016 as its Chief Operating Officer.
Bringing in over two decades of experience to his role, Arindam has significant industry exposure in Sales, Marketing, M&A and business operations. Earlier he has worked with renowned global brands that includes Colgate, Pillsbury; Häagen-Dazs and Sterlite.
Commenting on the appointment, Malvinder M. Singh, Executive Chairman, SRL Diagnostics, said "The past few years have been a period of significant growth for SRL and it is critical for us to capitalize from this position of strength, to achieve our ambitious goals. I see a very promising future for the diagnostics industry in general and SRL in particular, and am confident, that Arindam with his valuable experience, drive and commitment, will take the organization to its next phase of growth".
On his elevation, Arindam Haldar said, "I thank the Board for reposing faith in me and am delighted to assume this exciting role in SRL Diagnostics. I am looking forward to working with Team SRL to deliver on our strategy for the medium and long term growth of the company"
Innoplexus Enters Academic
Collaboration with RCC, Gwalior
Innoplexus, the technology and product development company focused on AI and advanced analytics, has announced a collaboration with Regional Cancer Centre (RCC), Gwalior. Innoplexus will provide an academic license to doctors and researchers at RCC, Gwalior, under the association, allowing them free access to its cloud-based decision support platform, iPlexusTM. With over 100+ terabytes of indexed scientific data available to them at their fingertips, researchers at RCC will be able to gain insights into the latest advancements in research and trials related to cancer and make swift, agile decisions pertinent to their R&D endeavours.
An end-to-end platform for Life Sciences which leverages artificial intelligence, iPlexusTM generates continuous intelligence and insights across discovery, clinical development, regulatory, and commercial stages of drug development spanning all major therapeutic areas and indications. This big data analytics-led approach facilitates a better way of discovering, exploring, and analyzing biomedical research, thereby enabling significant savings of time, effort, and costs for the R&D endeavours at RCC, Gwalior. Speaking on the collaboration, Dr. Gunjan Bhardwaj, Founder and Chairman, Innoplexus, said, "We are extremely delighted to announce our academic partnership with Regional Cancer Centre, Gwalior, which is in line with our vision to make access to insights real-time, comprehensive, and cost-effective. The need of the hour for medical research is to leverage machine learning, AI, and big data to generate continuous intelligence. This is what our recently launched iPlexus platform enables."
Innoplexus, the technology and product development company focused on AI and advanced analytics, has announced a collaboration with Regional Cancer Centre (RCC), Gwalior. Innoplexus will provide an academic license to doctors and researchers at RCC, Gwalior, under the association, allowing them free access to its cloud-based decision support platform, iPlexusTM. With over 100+ terabytes of indexed scientific data available to them at their fingertips, researchers at RCC will be able to gain insights into the latest advancements in research and trials related to cancer and make swift, agile decisions pertinent to their R&D endeavours.
An end-to-end platform for Life Sciences which leverages artificial intelligence, iPlexusTM generates continuous intelligence and insights across discovery, clinical development, regulatory, and commercial stages of drug development spanning all major therapeutic areas and indications. This big data analytics-led approach facilitates a better way of discovering, exploring, and analyzing biomedical research, thereby enabling significant savings of time, effort, and costs for the R&D endeavours at RCC, Gwalior. Speaking on the collaboration, Dr. Gunjan Bhardwaj, Founder and Chairman, Innoplexus, said, "We are extremely delighted to announce our academic partnership with Regional Cancer Centre, Gwalior, which is in line with our vision to make access to insights real-time, comprehensive, and cost-effective. The need of the hour for medical research is to leverage machine learning, AI, and big data to generate continuous intelligence. This is what our recently launched iPlexus platform enables."
LifeCell Launches Community Stem
Cell Banking
India's first & the largest stem cell provider, a pioneer in stem cell research, announced the launch of Baby Cord Share, Community Stem Cell banking to address the need for creating a large inventory of stem cells in the country. BabyCord Share brings together the unique benefits of private and public banks, while effectively addressing the challenges of sourcing matching stem cells in India. Community Stem Cell Banking is a first of its kind global initiative of LifeCell, which allows sharing of preserved umbilical cord stem cells amongst the community of parents. This provides larger access to donor stem cells within the community and higher probability for finding a matching donor stem cell for treatments. Community banking also helps parents and siblings in accessing stem cells from the community pool, thus providing a comprehensive family benefit for treatments.
According to statistics, individual risks of acquiring a blood or immune related conditions that are eventually treatable by stem cells is 1 in 20. 80 per cent of these conditions would require stem cells from a donor, with the remaining would require their own stem cells. Despite the large need, the transplants that are done are relatively very few, due to lack of availability of matching stem cells for treatment and prohibitive costs in sourcing matching stem cell units.
India's first & the largest stem cell provider, a pioneer in stem cell research, announced the launch of Baby Cord Share, Community Stem Cell banking to address the need for creating a large inventory of stem cells in the country. BabyCord Share brings together the unique benefits of private and public banks, while effectively addressing the challenges of sourcing matching stem cells in India. Community Stem Cell Banking is a first of its kind global initiative of LifeCell, which allows sharing of preserved umbilical cord stem cells amongst the community of parents. This provides larger access to donor stem cells within the community and higher probability for finding a matching donor stem cell for treatments. Community banking also helps parents and siblings in accessing stem cells from the community pool, thus providing a comprehensive family benefit for treatments.
According to statistics, individual risks of acquiring a blood or immune related conditions that are eventually treatable by stem cells is 1 in 20. 80 per cent of these conditions would require stem cells from a donor, with the remaining would require their own stem cells. Despite the large need, the transplants that are done are relatively very few, due to lack of availability of matching stem cells for treatment and prohibitive costs in sourcing matching stem cell units.
Xcode Partners with Medall
Xcode Life Sciences, a global genomics company, has announced its partnership with Medall, a leading provider of diagnostic testing services where the company will offer non-invasive general and targeted genetic testing packages. These include: General Tests: Predisposition to Diabetes, Obesity and Hypertension which will be complimentary to Medall's Master Health Check Targeted Tests: Nutritional genetics to screen for important mutations in genes such as FADS1 (Omega levels), MTHFR (Vitamin B12), Apolipoprotein E (Heart disease), TCF7L2 (Diabetes Type 2), MCM6 (Lactose intolerance) and HLA-DQ (Gluten Intolerance) among others.
Full gene sequencing services for specific genes are also available at affordable prices upon physician's prescription. Xcode and Medall have worked towards developing a customized genetic panel which would be a part of the Master Health package that would help in identifying genetic risk factors linked to manifestation of Diabetes, Obesity & Hypertension. Moreover, the service which generally costs more than Rs. 10,000/- in the market would be priced at less than Rs.5,000/-.
A leader in the field of diagnostic testing, Medall has built a premium brand both in rural and urban areas across 8 states; this therefore enables their technology to be easily accessible in a wide geography. Moreover, the company is known to offer high quality services that has touched the lives of over 20 million people so far; this would add further value to the partn ership.
Xcode Life Sciences, a global genomics company, has announced its partnership with Medall, a leading provider of diagnostic testing services where the company will offer non-invasive general and targeted genetic testing packages. These include: General Tests: Predisposition to Diabetes, Obesity and Hypertension which will be complimentary to Medall's Master Health Check Targeted Tests: Nutritional genetics to screen for important mutations in genes such as FADS1 (Omega levels), MTHFR (Vitamin B12), Apolipoprotein E (Heart disease), TCF7L2 (Diabetes Type 2), MCM6 (Lactose intolerance) and HLA-DQ (Gluten Intolerance) among others.
Full gene sequencing services for specific genes are also available at affordable prices upon physician's prescription. Xcode and Medall have worked towards developing a customized genetic panel which would be a part of the Master Health package that would help in identifying genetic risk factors linked to manifestation of Diabetes, Obesity & Hypertension. Moreover, the service which generally costs more than Rs. 10,000/- in the market would be priced at less than Rs.5,000/-.
A leader in the field of diagnostic testing, Medall has built a premium brand both in rural and urban areas across 8 states; this therefore enables their technology to be easily accessible in a wide geography. Moreover, the company is known to offer high quality services that has touched the lives of over 20 million people so far; this would add further value to the partn ership.
AstraZeneca Announces Results of 1st
Large Real-world Evidence Study of SGLT-2i
AstraZeneca has announced results of the first large real-world evidence study of its kind evaluating the risk of hospitalisation for heart failure and death from any cause in patients with type-2 diabetes (T2D) receiving treatment with a newer class of diabetes medicines, SGLT-2 inhibitors (SGLT-2i).
The CVD-REAL study assessed data from more than 300,000 patients across six countries, 87% of whom did not have a history of cardiovascular disease. The data showed that across this broad population of patients with T2D, treatment with SGLT-2i medicines - Farxiga (dapagliflozin), canagliflozin, empagliflozin - reduced the rate of hospitalisation for heart failure by 39% (p<0.001) and death from any cause by 51% (p<0.001), compared to other T2D medicines. For the composite endpoint of hospitalisation for heart failure and death from any cause, the reduction was 46% (p<0.001).
Dr. Anilda D'souza, Head of Medical Affairs, AstraZeneca India commented, "The newer SGLT2i class of medicines represents a significant advancement in treatment of type 2 diabetes. This real world study showed significant reduction in the rate of hospitalization and deaths associated with Cardiovascular diseases with the SGLT2i compared to other anti-diabetic agents. This data generated from a broad population of patients with type 2 diabetes exemplifies the clinical study results providing confidence to the broader physician community on the role of SGLT-2i class in diabetes care."
Worldwide, diabetes affects around 415 million adults, a number estimated to rise to 642 million by 2040 (1 in 10 adults). People with T2D have a 2-3 times greater risk of heart failure and are at an increased risk of having a heart attack or stroke, and some 50 per cent of deaths in people with T2D are caused by cardiovascular disease.
AstraZeneca has announced results of the first large real-world evidence study of its kind evaluating the risk of hospitalisation for heart failure and death from any cause in patients with type-2 diabetes (T2D) receiving treatment with a newer class of diabetes medicines, SGLT-2 inhibitors (SGLT-2i).
The CVD-REAL study assessed data from more than 300,000 patients across six countries, 87% of whom did not have a history of cardiovascular disease. The data showed that across this broad population of patients with T2D, treatment with SGLT-2i medicines - Farxiga (dapagliflozin), canagliflozin, empagliflozin - reduced the rate of hospitalisation for heart failure by 39% (p<0.001) and death from any cause by 51% (p<0.001), compared to other T2D medicines. For the composite endpoint of hospitalisation for heart failure and death from any cause, the reduction was 46% (p<0.001).
Dr. Anilda D'souza, Head of Medical Affairs, AstraZeneca India commented, "The newer SGLT2i class of medicines represents a significant advancement in treatment of type 2 diabetes. This real world study showed significant reduction in the rate of hospitalization and deaths associated with Cardiovascular diseases with the SGLT2i compared to other anti-diabetic agents. This data generated from a broad population of patients with type 2 diabetes exemplifies the clinical study results providing confidence to the broader physician community on the role of SGLT-2i class in diabetes care."
Worldwide, diabetes affects around 415 million adults, a number estimated to rise to 642 million by 2040 (1 in 10 adults). People with T2D have a 2-3 times greater risk of heart failure and are at an increased risk of having a heart attack or stroke, and some 50 per cent of deaths in people with T2D are caused by cardiovascular disease.
Dr Ajaz Hussain Appointed as Senior
Advisor, Risk Consulting, KPMG in India
KPMG in India announces the appointment of Dr. Ajaz Hussain as Senior Advisor to the firm from 1 January 2017. Changing regulations, adoption of new technologies and increasing demands across geographies around compliance have compelled KPMG in India to bring forth a proactive and continuous quality compliance programme which aims to deliver effective results. In this endeavour, Dr. Ajaz Hussain will serve as a Senior Advisor to KPMG in India.
Dr. Ajaz Hussain brings a wealth of international pharmaceutical regulatory and business experience to KPMG in India, including his decade-long tenure with the United States Food and Drug Administration (US FDA), Center for Drug Evaluation and Research (CDER). He has led some of the US Food and Drug Administration's major initiatives to develop regulatory policies that already have and are likely to continue to have a significant impact on product development and approval in many geographies. He has been honoured by US FDA on multiple occasions for his contribution and insights.
Dr. Ajaz Hussain is currently serving as the President of The National Institute for Pharmaceutical Technology and Education, a not-for-profit educational organisation which is a collaboration of 17 major universities in the U.S. Grants from US FDA primarily fund the research programmes at the institute. He also serves as an advisory to multiple pharmaceutical companies around the globe and also supports several regulatory agencies by conducting training programmes.
KPMG in India announces the appointment of Dr. Ajaz Hussain as Senior Advisor to the firm from 1 January 2017. Changing regulations, adoption of new technologies and increasing demands across geographies around compliance have compelled KPMG in India to bring forth a proactive and continuous quality compliance programme which aims to deliver effective results. In this endeavour, Dr. Ajaz Hussain will serve as a Senior Advisor to KPMG in India.
Dr. Ajaz Hussain brings a wealth of international pharmaceutical regulatory and business experience to KPMG in India, including his decade-long tenure with the United States Food and Drug Administration (US FDA), Center for Drug Evaluation and Research (CDER). He has led some of the US Food and Drug Administration's major initiatives to develop regulatory policies that already have and are likely to continue to have a significant impact on product development and approval in many geographies. He has been honoured by US FDA on multiple occasions for his contribution and insights.
Dr. Ajaz Hussain is currently serving as the President of The National Institute for Pharmaceutical Technology and Education, a not-for-profit educational organisation which is a collaboration of 17 major universities in the U.S. Grants from US FDA primarily fund the research programmes at the institute. He also serves as an advisory to multiple pharmaceutical companies around the globe and also supports several regulatory agencies by conducting training programmes.
MedGenome Launches ONCOTRACK
India is likely to have over 1.73 Million new cases of cancer and over 880,000 deaths due to the disease by 2020. Around 70 per cent of all cancer patients approach the doctor when the disease has advanced, and the chances of cure are very low
To address and better manage the disease, MedGenome - India's premier genomics based research and diagnostics company has announced the launch of "ONCOTRACK". The liquid biopsy based Oncotrack is a non-invasive screening test that is set to transform the way physicians in India can identify genetic alterations, interpret, assess and treat various forms of cancer.
"Management of cancer will undergo a massive transformation in India with NGS based liquid biopsies. We are constantly striving to get the most advanced genetic testing technology/technique at affordable prices to the patients and ONCOTRACK is one such offering.", said Sam Santhosh, Chairman, MedGenome.
The test developed entirely by MedGenome, is the only one to be validated in India and verified from samples of cancer patients from across the country. The test screens the samples by analyzing cell-free DNA that is isolated from the patients' blood. Using high end sequencing technology, the screening process identifies specific gene mutations that are linked with Melanoma, Lung and Colon cancers. The test facilitates detection of mutation where there is difficulty of obtaining biopsy or in the event of a damaged biopsy material and non-availability of tissue biopsy. This offers Oncologists the power to look for actionable alterations in a patient's treatment, management, without having to do an invasive biopsy or where biopsy is not an option.
India is likely to have over 1.73 Million new cases of cancer and over 880,000 deaths due to the disease by 2020. Around 70 per cent of all cancer patients approach the doctor when the disease has advanced, and the chances of cure are very low
To address and better manage the disease, MedGenome - India's premier genomics based research and diagnostics company has announced the launch of "ONCOTRACK". The liquid biopsy based Oncotrack is a non-invasive screening test that is set to transform the way physicians in India can identify genetic alterations, interpret, assess and treat various forms of cancer.
"Management of cancer will undergo a massive transformation in India with NGS based liquid biopsies. We are constantly striving to get the most advanced genetic testing technology/technique at affordable prices to the patients and ONCOTRACK is one such offering.", said Sam Santhosh, Chairman, MedGenome.
The test developed entirely by MedGenome, is the only one to be validated in India and verified from samples of cancer patients from across the country. The test screens the samples by analyzing cell-free DNA that is isolated from the patients' blood. Using high end sequencing technology, the screening process identifies specific gene mutations that are linked with Melanoma, Lung and Colon cancers. The test facilitates detection of mutation where there is difficulty of obtaining biopsy or in the event of a damaged biopsy material and non-availability of tissue biopsy. This offers Oncologists the power to look for actionable alterations in a patient's treatment, management, without having to do an invasive biopsy or where biopsy is not an option.
DSP and Sandoz Sign Licensing
Agreement
DSM Sinochem Pharmaceuticals (DSP) and Sandoz (a Novartis Division) have executed a definitive agreement licensing certain DSP intellectual property assets for the manufacture of beta lactam antibiotics.
The license agreement provides Sandoz a non-exclusive, worldwide license to certain patents including, inter alia, U.S. 8,541,199 B2 and EP 1,610,766 B1, granting freedom to operate to develop and commercialize its various beta lactam products and allows for the production of new enzymes for the sustainable manufacture of amoxicillin.
Karl Rotthier, CEO of DSP stated: "DSP is pleased to have Sandoz as a licensee of our innovative, sustainable and environmentally friendly amoxicillin manufacturing technology. As part of our commitment to fight antimicrobial resistance through minimizing the environmental impact from antibiotics manufacturing, DSP is actively seeking to promote green, enzymatic routes for production of amoxicillin and other antibiotics, utilizing our patented technology. This license agreement further validates the strength of DSP's intellectual property portfolio regarding enzymatically produced antimicrobials."
The commitment to reduce environmental impact from the production of antibioticsis also laid out in the Industry Roadmap for Progress on Combating Antimicrobial Resistance, signed by DSP, Novartis and 11 other leading pharmaceutical companies at the United Nations General Assembly in New York in September 2016.
DSM Sinochem Pharmaceuticals (DSP) and Sandoz (a Novartis Division) have executed a definitive agreement licensing certain DSP intellectual property assets for the manufacture of beta lactam antibiotics.
The license agreement provides Sandoz a non-exclusive, worldwide license to certain patents including, inter alia, U.S. 8,541,199 B2 and EP 1,610,766 B1, granting freedom to operate to develop and commercialize its various beta lactam products and allows for the production of new enzymes for the sustainable manufacture of amoxicillin.
Karl Rotthier, CEO of DSP stated: "DSP is pleased to have Sandoz as a licensee of our innovative, sustainable and environmentally friendly amoxicillin manufacturing technology. As part of our commitment to fight antimicrobial resistance through minimizing the environmental impact from antibiotics manufacturing, DSP is actively seeking to promote green, enzymatic routes for production of amoxicillin and other antibiotics, utilizing our patented technology. This license agreement further validates the strength of DSP's intellectual property portfolio regarding enzymatically produced antimicrobials."
The commitment to reduce environmental impact from the production of antibioticsis also laid out in the Industry Roadmap for Progress on Combating Antimicrobial Resistance, signed by DSP, Novartis and 11 other leading pharmaceutical companies at the United Nations General Assembly in New York in September 2016.
Jubilant Gets Responsible Care
14001:2013 Certification
Jubilant Life Sciences, an integrated global pharmaceuticals and life sciences company, receives 'Responsible Care 14001:2013 certification' under the American Chemistry Council's (ACC) Responsible Care program® for its Corporate Office in Noida and for its manufacturing Unit in Gajraula. Awarded to the Life Science Ingredients business, the certification is a demonstration of Jubilant's continued commitment towards sustainable business operations.
Jubilant Life Sciences was presented with the certification for its robust management system that ensures highest standards of health, safety, security and environmental performance for both its products and operations. Jubilant Life Sciences is one of the very few companies in India to achieve the certification, the distinction is an evidence of company's exemplary business practices and good corporate governance.
Jubilant Life Sciences, an integrated global pharmaceuticals and life sciences company, receives 'Responsible Care 14001:2013 certification' under the American Chemistry Council's (ACC) Responsible Care program® for its Corporate Office in Noida and for its manufacturing Unit in Gajraula. Awarded to the Life Science Ingredients business, the certification is a demonstration of Jubilant's continued commitment towards sustainable business operations.
Jubilant Life Sciences was presented with the certification for its robust management system that ensures highest standards of health, safety, security and environmental performance for both its products and operations. Jubilant Life Sciences is one of the very few companies in India to achieve the certification, the distinction is an evidence of company's exemplary business practices and good corporate governance.
GNH India Accredited with SGS
Certification
GNH India is rewarded with a certification by SGS for WHO (World health Organisation) GSDP (Good storage and distribution practise) in India. Currently shipping to over 180 countries globally, GNH India will now be able to expand its reach to institutional customers such as WHO, UN agencies globally and International tenders of Ministry of health of foreign countries.
SGS is a globally recognized leader in certifications in the pharmaceutical sector. GSDP is an internationally accepted quality system for warehouse and distribution centers in the pharmaceutical industry. The GSDP certification ensures that consistent quality management systems are in place throughout the entire supply chain, from the early delivery of raw materials to the manufacturing plants, to the final shipment of finished drugs to the end user. Companies are eligible for this certification post a thorough analysis of their processes and policies, conducted by highlyqualified auditors.Sharing his happiness, Dr. Piyush Gupta, Associate Director - GNH India, said "We have always maintained the quality standards in the services offered to our clients. The certification by SGS further justifies our commitment to service our clients with the required quality, safety and efficacy of the products. We are glad to receive this certification in our first attempt and we assure to continue to enrich the service experience of our customers."
GNH India has various others compliances such as Voluntary compliance of US FCPA and UK Anti Bribery laws, US GAAP accounting standards, Indian FEMA (Foreign Exchange Management Act) and many such others. The company has over 135,000 product lines to offer Hospitals, Ministries, Importers, Wholesalers, Pharmacists, Doctors, and others in the field of pharma.
GNH India is rewarded with a certification by SGS for WHO (World health Organisation) GSDP (Good storage and distribution practise) in India. Currently shipping to over 180 countries globally, GNH India will now be able to expand its reach to institutional customers such as WHO, UN agencies globally and International tenders of Ministry of health of foreign countries.
SGS is a globally recognized leader in certifications in the pharmaceutical sector. GSDP is an internationally accepted quality system for warehouse and distribution centers in the pharmaceutical industry. The GSDP certification ensures that consistent quality management systems are in place throughout the entire supply chain, from the early delivery of raw materials to the manufacturing plants, to the final shipment of finished drugs to the end user. Companies are eligible for this certification post a thorough analysis of their processes and policies, conducted by highlyqualified auditors.Sharing his happiness, Dr. Piyush Gupta, Associate Director - GNH India, said "We have always maintained the quality standards in the services offered to our clients. The certification by SGS further justifies our commitment to service our clients with the required quality, safety and efficacy of the products. We are glad to receive this certification in our first attempt and we assure to continue to enrich the service experience of our customers."
GNH India has various others compliances such as Voluntary compliance of US FCPA and UK Anti Bribery laws, US GAAP accounting standards, Indian FEMA (Foreign Exchange Management Act) and many such others. The company has over 135,000 product lines to offer Hospitals, Ministries, Importers, Wholesalers, Pharmacists, Doctors, and others in the field of pharma.
Piramal Acquires Spasticity and Pain
Management Drugs from Mallinckrodt
Piramal Enterprises Limited's wholly owned Critical Care subsidiary in the UK has entered into an agreement to acquire a portfolio of intrathecal spasticity and pain management drugs from Mallinckrodt LLC in an all cash deal for a consideration of USD 171 million and up to an additional USD 32 million payable depending on financial performance of the acquired assets over the next 3 years.
The portfolio acquired includes Gablofen (baclofen), a severe spasticity management product, which is currently marketed in the United States, and two pain management products, which are currently under development. Gablofen has also been approved for launch in 8 European markets. Gablofen is the only intrathecal baclofen drug available in vials and pre-filled syringes, which are preferred by users over the competing products available in ampoules. The pain management drugs under development are also for intrathecal administration. In the twelve months ending September 30, 2016, the acquired portfolio generated revenues of USD 44.6 million.
Piramal Enterprises Limited's wholly owned Critical Care subsidiary in the UK has entered into an agreement to acquire a portfolio of intrathecal spasticity and pain management drugs from Mallinckrodt LLC in an all cash deal for a consideration of USD 171 million and up to an additional USD 32 million payable depending on financial performance of the acquired assets over the next 3 years.
The portfolio acquired includes Gablofen (baclofen), a severe spasticity management product, which is currently marketed in the United States, and two pain management products, which are currently under development. Gablofen has also been approved for launch in 8 European markets. Gablofen is the only intrathecal baclofen drug available in vials and pre-filled syringes, which are preferred by users over the competing products available in ampoules. The pain management drugs under development are also for intrathecal administration. In the twelve months ending September 30, 2016, the acquired portfolio generated revenues of USD 44.6 million.
VAV Life Sciences Launches India's
First Phospholipid Manufacturing Plant
One of the top phospholipid manufacturers, VAV Life Sciences inaugurated its cGMP compliant Phospholipid manufacturing plant in Mirjole, Ratnagiri, Maharashtra. The plant is set up in India considering the emerging healthcare applications of lecithins & phospholipids in functional foods, nutritional supplements, novel pharmaceuticals and cosmetics. With the plant, the company will mark products manufactured at the factory with a 'Made in India' label and will export 80 per cent of them to North America, Europe, Asia and ROW region.
The existing brands manufactured include LECIVA, LIPOVA, OLEOVA. The first phase of the plant is spread across 30,000 sq.ft. with EU cGMP standard facilities. The facility utilises state-of-the-art technology, which allows the production of its all-natural higher grade of phospholipids ingredient in accordance with the global industry standards. Most phospholipids are derived from nature, hence classified as GRAS (Generally Recognised as Safe) by US FDA. Through the plant, VAV will be building distinct production lines for refined soya, egg and synthetic Phospholipids. Ratnagiri location was the first choice to set up this plant due to its excellent infrastructure facilities, conducive business environment, suitable weather conditions and quality trained manpower
One of the top phospholipid manufacturers, VAV Life Sciences inaugurated its cGMP compliant Phospholipid manufacturing plant in Mirjole, Ratnagiri, Maharashtra. The plant is set up in India considering the emerging healthcare applications of lecithins & phospholipids in functional foods, nutritional supplements, novel pharmaceuticals and cosmetics. With the plant, the company will mark products manufactured at the factory with a 'Made in India' label and will export 80 per cent of them to North America, Europe, Asia and ROW region.
The existing brands manufactured include LECIVA, LIPOVA, OLEOVA. The first phase of the plant is spread across 30,000 sq.ft. with EU cGMP standard facilities. The facility utilises state-of-the-art technology, which allows the production of its all-natural higher grade of phospholipids ingredient in accordance with the global industry standards. Most phospholipids are derived from nature, hence classified as GRAS (Generally Recognised as Safe) by US FDA. Through the plant, VAV will be building distinct production lines for refined soya, egg and synthetic Phospholipids. Ratnagiri location was the first choice to set up this plant due to its excellent infrastructure facilities, conducive business environment, suitable weather conditions and quality trained manpower
Protagen AG Join Forces with the US
National Cancer Institute
Protagen AG has executed a Material Transfer Agreement with the National Cancer Institute (NCI) under which the parties will utilize Protagens SeroTag immune system profiling technology to identify biomarkers that predict therapy responsiveness, to monitor patients receiving immunotherapies, and for early detection of immune-related adverse events (irAEs). This collaboration with NCI will be led by Jeffrey Schlom, PhD, Chief of the Laboratory of Tumor Immunology and Biology at the NCI's Center for Cancer Research. Protagen AG is a provider of pharma development services and novel companion diagnostic tests in the fields of immuno-oncology and autoimmune disease. NCI is part of the National Institutes of Health.
While targeted immunotherapies such as therapeutic vaccination and checkpoint inhibition hold great promise for treating cancer, they currently work effectively on a small subset of patients. In addition, as these therapies stimulate the immune system to target the body's own cells, they can also trigger immune-related Adverse Events (irAEs) and even the onset of autoimmune diseases. Through this collaboration, Protagen and NCI intend to provide valuable insight into utilizing immune system profiling to predict response, monitor patients and for detection of immune-related adverse events.
Protagen AG has executed a Material Transfer Agreement with the National Cancer Institute (NCI) under which the parties will utilize Protagens SeroTag immune system profiling technology to identify biomarkers that predict therapy responsiveness, to monitor patients receiving immunotherapies, and for early detection of immune-related adverse events (irAEs). This collaboration with NCI will be led by Jeffrey Schlom, PhD, Chief of the Laboratory of Tumor Immunology and Biology at the NCI's Center for Cancer Research. Protagen AG is a provider of pharma development services and novel companion diagnostic tests in the fields of immuno-oncology and autoimmune disease. NCI is part of the National Institutes of Health.
While targeted immunotherapies such as therapeutic vaccination and checkpoint inhibition hold great promise for treating cancer, they currently work effectively on a small subset of patients. In addition, as these therapies stimulate the immune system to target the body's own cells, they can also trigger immune-related Adverse Events (irAEs) and even the onset of autoimmune diseases. Through this collaboration, Protagen and NCI intend to provide valuable insight into utilizing immune system profiling to predict response, monitor patients and for detection of immune-related adverse events.
Need to Build Global Confidence & Trust
in Clinical Research in India
Given all the recent changes in the regulatory environment in the recent past and the regulators' commitment to a creating a favourable clinical research environment in India, there is now a strong need to rebuild global confidence and trust in doing clinical research in India. This was the unanimous opinion of industry panelists in the concluding session on Does India Feature in Discussions on Global Clinical Study Placements at the 10th Annual ISCR (Indian Society for Clinical Research) Conference. While on one hand, data of global inspections validates the high quality of clinical research being done in India, the clinical research environment is weighed down by negative perceptions of quality and therefore stakeholders need to take a more proactive approach to quality management, they said.
Speaking on the occasion, Suneela Thatte, President, ISCR said, "It is a key responsibility of each one of us to renew our pledge to quality, patient safety and data integrity and set an example to the rest of the world as to how quality and ethics are not mere tokenism but truly reflect the spirit of the clinical research community in India. When this happens only then will we be able to bridge the gap between India's potential in the field of clinical research and the actual clinical research being conducted in India at the moment and the gap between perception and reality. We at ISCR would like to reiterate our commitment to continue to engage with all our stakeholder and work towards the creation of a clinical research ecosystem that balances the interests of all stakeholders - particularly the patients."
Among the highlights of the concluding day was a panel on Research in Rare Diseases which had not for profit organisations, patients, medical and legal professionals talk about the needs of rare disease patients in India and what needs to be done to ensure access to research and early intervention for rare diseases. "Rare diseases are not so rare. If we were to put together the entire population of rare disease patients in the world, it would be the third most populous country," said Prasanna Shirol, Founder Member, Organisation for Rare Diseases India.
Given all the recent changes in the regulatory environment in the recent past and the regulators' commitment to a creating a favourable clinical research environment in India, there is now a strong need to rebuild global confidence and trust in doing clinical research in India. This was the unanimous opinion of industry panelists in the concluding session on Does India Feature in Discussions on Global Clinical Study Placements at the 10th Annual ISCR (Indian Society for Clinical Research) Conference. While on one hand, data of global inspections validates the high quality of clinical research being done in India, the clinical research environment is weighed down by negative perceptions of quality and therefore stakeholders need to take a more proactive approach to quality management, they said.
Speaking on the occasion, Suneela Thatte, President, ISCR said, "It is a key responsibility of each one of us to renew our pledge to quality, patient safety and data integrity and set an example to the rest of the world as to how quality and ethics are not mere tokenism but truly reflect the spirit of the clinical research community in India. When this happens only then will we be able to bridge the gap between India's potential in the field of clinical research and the actual clinical research being conducted in India at the moment and the gap between perception and reality. We at ISCR would like to reiterate our commitment to continue to engage with all our stakeholder and work towards the creation of a clinical research ecosystem that balances the interests of all stakeholders - particularly the patients."
Among the highlights of the concluding day was a panel on Research in Rare Diseases which had not for profit organisations, patients, medical and legal professionals talk about the needs of rare disease patients in India and what needs to be done to ensure access to research and early intervention for rare diseases. "Rare diseases are not so rare. If we were to put together the entire population of rare disease patients in the world, it would be the third most populous country," said Prasanna Shirol, Founder Member, Organisation for Rare Diseases India.
Chemtura Shareholders Approve
Acquisition by LANXESS
Specialty Chemicals Company LANXESS has taken a significant step forward in the planned acquisition of U.S. chemical company Chemtura. Chemtura's shareholders approved the merger at a special meeting in Philadelphia, United States. 99.88 per cent of the votes cast were in favor of the merger, representing 81.77 percent of Chemtura's outstanding common stock. Under the terms of the merger agreement, Chemtura shareholders will receive USD 33.50 for each outstanding share in cash at closing of the transaction.
Matthias Zachert, Chairman of the Board of Management of LANXESS AG, welcomed the vote approving the merger taken at the shareholders' meeting. "We are pleased that Chemtura's shareholders are so supportive of the planned acquisition. Their approval is an important milestone on LANXESS's route to becoming one of the major players in the field of additives chemistry."
Clearance for the acquisition from the U.S. antitrust authorities was already received at the end of December 2016. LANXESS expects to close the transaction in mid-2017 after all remaining regulatory approvals have been received.
Flame retardant and lubricant additives are the main pillars of Chemtura's business and would complement the current LANXESS portfolio. After closing of the transaction, these two business activities are to be integrated with LANXESS's Rhein Chemie Additives business unit to form a new segment. Today, Rhein Chemie Additives already supplies a broad range of special additives and service products for the manufacture of plastics, rubber, lubricants and coatings. It employs some 1,600 people at more than 20 sites around the world.
Specialty Chemicals Company LANXESS has taken a significant step forward in the planned acquisition of U.S. chemical company Chemtura. Chemtura's shareholders approved the merger at a special meeting in Philadelphia, United States. 99.88 per cent of the votes cast were in favor of the merger, representing 81.77 percent of Chemtura's outstanding common stock. Under the terms of the merger agreement, Chemtura shareholders will receive USD 33.50 for each outstanding share in cash at closing of the transaction.
Matthias Zachert, Chairman of the Board of Management of LANXESS AG, welcomed the vote approving the merger taken at the shareholders' meeting. "We are pleased that Chemtura's shareholders are so supportive of the planned acquisition. Their approval is an important milestone on LANXESS's route to becoming one of the major players in the field of additives chemistry."
Clearance for the acquisition from the U.S. antitrust authorities was already received at the end of December 2016. LANXESS expects to close the transaction in mid-2017 after all remaining regulatory approvals have been received.
Flame retardant and lubricant additives are the main pillars of Chemtura's business and would complement the current LANXESS portfolio. After closing of the transaction, these two business activities are to be integrated with LANXESS's Rhein Chemie Additives business unit to form a new segment. Today, Rhein Chemie Additives already supplies a broad range of special additives and service products for the manufacture of plastics, rubber, lubricants and coatings. It employs some 1,600 people at more than 20 sites around the world.
NSF & IDMA Offer Pharmaceutical
Quality Management Education
NSF International, a global public health and safety organization, is partnering with the Indian Drug Manufacturers' Association (IDMA) to offer a customised, five-module pharmaceutical quality management (PQM) education program in Bangalore, India. Pharmaceutical industry professionals who complete the graduate-level, advanced education program will earn an internationally recognised certification in GMP compliance from NSF International and IDMA.
The Advanced Program in Pharmaceutical Quality Management consists of five modules, each lasting four days. With the modules taught every other month, the program can be completed in 10 months. Classes will be offered at Acharya College in Bangalore with a planned start in September 2017.
Pre-registration information sessions will be held in Bangalore, Hyderabad and Mumbai during the week of 12 February, 2017. The information sessions will be led by S.V. Veerramani, National President of IDMA, S.M Mudda, Chairman of the IDMA Regulatory Affairs Committee & Program Coordinator, and program tutor Martin Lush, Global Vice President of Pharma Biotech and Medical Devices for NSF International. The event in Hyderabad is sponsored by the Pharmaceutical Export Promotion Council and organized by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India.
India has the highest number of GMP-approved manufacturing plants outside the United States and Europe. As global regulatory requirements become more rigorous, GMP compliance education is becoming a prime focus for the pharmaceutical industry. According to a report by Deloitte, 64 per cent of pharmaceutical companies in India say a shortage of skilled staff is curtailing their compliance ability and growth.
NSF International, a global public health and safety organization, is partnering with the Indian Drug Manufacturers' Association (IDMA) to offer a customised, five-module pharmaceutical quality management (PQM) education program in Bangalore, India. Pharmaceutical industry professionals who complete the graduate-level, advanced education program will earn an internationally recognised certification in GMP compliance from NSF International and IDMA.
The Advanced Program in Pharmaceutical Quality Management consists of five modules, each lasting four days. With the modules taught every other month, the program can be completed in 10 months. Classes will be offered at Acharya College in Bangalore with a planned start in September 2017.
Pre-registration information sessions will be held in Bangalore, Hyderabad and Mumbai during the week of 12 February, 2017. The information sessions will be led by S.V. Veerramani, National President of IDMA, S.M Mudda, Chairman of the IDMA Regulatory Affairs Committee & Program Coordinator, and program tutor Martin Lush, Global Vice President of Pharma Biotech and Medical Devices for NSF International. The event in Hyderabad is sponsored by the Pharmaceutical Export Promotion Council and organized by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India.
India has the highest number of GMP-approved manufacturing plants outside the United States and Europe. As global regulatory requirements become more rigorous, GMP compliance education is becoming a prime focus for the pharmaceutical industry. According to a report by Deloitte, 64 per cent of pharmaceutical companies in India say a shortage of skilled staff is curtailing their compliance ability and growth.
T-Hub Collaborates with NHPL
T-Hub, India's fastest growing start-up engine, catalyzing innovation, scale and deal flow has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with pharmaceutical major Novartis Healthcare Private Ltd (NHPL) to create and execute joint programs that would benefit Health Tech startups from across segments.
Being leaders in healthcare, Novartis will be working together with T-Hub to develop plans and programs that will help health tech, healthcare and pharmaceutical startups to scale and grow. As a part of the initiatives health, research and development experts from Novartis will mentor and guide startups, in compliance with T-Hub's mentorship framework and evaluation process, in their respective ventures. The MoU will help foster a close relationship in these areas while contributing towards the building of a thriving ecosystem in Hyderabad. Headquartered in Basel, Switzerland, Novartis has a significant footprint in India with a strong base in Hyderabad through its Global Drug Development and Business Services Center.
Speaking about the partnership, Jay Krishnan, CEO, T-Hub said, "We are very excited to collaborate with Novartis, a world class leader in healthcare. Novartis will bring great value to the ecosystem and HealthTech startups will be greatly benefited. With HealthTech being one of our prime sectors, we are working towards ensuring that startups associated with T-Hub are well mentored and guided through various programs of ours, which will help them scale their business faster."
Subodh Deshmukh, Global Drug Development India Head, Novartis said, "As a global leader in biomedical innovation, we are excited about this potential partnership with T-Hub and its allied startups driving innovation in the healthcare space."
T-Hub, India's fastest growing start-up engine, catalyzing innovation, scale and deal flow has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with pharmaceutical major Novartis Healthcare Private Ltd (NHPL) to create and execute joint programs that would benefit Health Tech startups from across segments.
Being leaders in healthcare, Novartis will be working together with T-Hub to develop plans and programs that will help health tech, healthcare and pharmaceutical startups to scale and grow. As a part of the initiatives health, research and development experts from Novartis will mentor and guide startups, in compliance with T-Hub's mentorship framework and evaluation process, in their respective ventures. The MoU will help foster a close relationship in these areas while contributing towards the building of a thriving ecosystem in Hyderabad. Headquartered in Basel, Switzerland, Novartis has a significant footprint in India with a strong base in Hyderabad through its Global Drug Development and Business Services Center.
Speaking about the partnership, Jay Krishnan, CEO, T-Hub said, "We are very excited to collaborate with Novartis, a world class leader in healthcare. Novartis will bring great value to the ecosystem and HealthTech startups will be greatly benefited. With HealthTech being one of our prime sectors, we are working towards ensuring that startups associated with T-Hub are well mentored and guided through various programs of ours, which will help them scale their business faster."
Subodh Deshmukh, Global Drug Development India Head, Novartis said, "As a global leader in biomedical innovation, we are excited about this potential partnership with T-Hub and its allied startups driving innovation in the healthcare space."
Vyome Announces Top-line Results
from Phase 1 Study of VB-1953
Vyome Biosciences, a clinical-stage specialty pharmaceutical company developing novel medicines for treating skin diseases caused by resistant microbes, has announced top-line data from its phase 1 clinical trial evaluating VB-1953, a topically administered gel designed to treat patients with moderate to severe acne. VB- 1953 exhibited a promising dermal safety signal, was generally well tolerated and showed the potential to treat moderate to severe acne.
According to a preliminary analysis of the data from 12 patients, VB- 1953 met its primary endpoint relative to pharmacokinetics, achieving plasma concentration less than 1 ng/ml and dermal tolerability. Also, in addition to demonstrating safety in this 12-patient study, treatment with VB-1953 resulted in a reduction of inflammatory and non-inflammatory lesions and in IGA scores, compared to baseline, suggested a potential efficacy signal in these moderate to severe acne patients.
"VB-1953 was generally well tolerated with a good dermal safety signal and the early parameters of efficacy were encouraging after only a short duration of treatment," said study investigator Neal Bhatia, MD, of Therapeutics Clinical Research in San Diego, CA. "Based on these results, VB-1953 appears to demonstrate the potential to be a promising new treatment as further development continues."
"These data are encouraging for patients with moderate to severe acne, especially the one-third of whom do not respond to available treatment options due to microbial resistance. With a promising dermal safety signal, and potential anti-acne and anti-inflammatory activity, VB-1953 has the potential to fill this gap in acne treatment," said Venkateswarlu Nelabhotla (N. Venkat), co-founder and chief executive officer of Vyome Biosciences.
Vyome Biosciences, a clinical-stage specialty pharmaceutical company developing novel medicines for treating skin diseases caused by resistant microbes, has announced top-line data from its phase 1 clinical trial evaluating VB-1953, a topically administered gel designed to treat patients with moderate to severe acne. VB- 1953 exhibited a promising dermal safety signal, was generally well tolerated and showed the potential to treat moderate to severe acne.
According to a preliminary analysis of the data from 12 patients, VB- 1953 met its primary endpoint relative to pharmacokinetics, achieving plasma concentration less than 1 ng/ml and dermal tolerability. Also, in addition to demonstrating safety in this 12-patient study, treatment with VB-1953 resulted in a reduction of inflammatory and non-inflammatory lesions and in IGA scores, compared to baseline, suggested a potential efficacy signal in these moderate to severe acne patients.
"VB-1953 was generally well tolerated with a good dermal safety signal and the early parameters of efficacy were encouraging after only a short duration of treatment," said study investigator Neal Bhatia, MD, of Therapeutics Clinical Research in San Diego, CA. "Based on these results, VB-1953 appears to demonstrate the potential to be a promising new treatment as further development continues."
"These data are encouraging for patients with moderate to severe acne, especially the one-third of whom do not respond to available treatment options due to microbial resistance. With a promising dermal safety signal, and potential anti-acne and anti-inflammatory activity, VB-1953 has the potential to fill this gap in acne treatment," said Venkateswarlu Nelabhotla (N. Venkat), co-founder and chief executive officer of Vyome Biosciences.
Agilent Technologies Extends
Collaboration on Reproductive Genetics
Agilent Technologies is extending its collaboration with the Centre for Human Genetics of the University of Leuven and the University Hospital of Leuven in Belgium. Joris Vermeesch, chair of the Centre for Human Genetics and a leading expert in human genetics, will coordinate the collaboration.
The earlier collaboration preceded the commercial launch of Agilent's OneSight software platform, which helps researchers visualize and explore chromosomal and sub-chromosomal aneuploidies in cell-free DNA sequencing data. Over the past few years, interest in cell-free DNA analysis has strongly increased, not only because it can be used to perform non-invasive prenatal testing, but also because cfDNA can be found in liquid biopsies from cancer patients. In addition, recent evidence suggests that cfDNA can be found in an embryo's blastocoel fluid and culture medium and used for preimplantation genetic screening.
The two teams are also investigating comprehensive solutions for preimplantation genetic testing, which could enable labs to use a single sequencing workflow to perform preimplantation genetic diagnoses for single gene disorders and translocation carriers as well as PGS for chromosomal abnormalities on the same embryo biopsy. The PGT development efforts are also supported by a grant from the Flemish government.
The collaborators estimate that a commercial solution for PGT analysis could be ready as early as this year, followed by a more extensive evaluation of the clinical utility of the PGT solution to discriminate between mitotic and meiotic aneuploidies and detect triploidy and uniparental isodisomy in embryo biopsies. These chromosomal abnormalities cannot be accurately detected by the currently available commercial solutions for PGS. It is the ultimate goal to enable the IVF community to reduce the number of IVF cycles and time that are needed to achieve a healthy live birth. If confirmed, the reduction in cost and time might then be the main drivers to obtain reimbursement with the corresponding authorities.
Agilent Technologies is extending its collaboration with the Centre for Human Genetics of the University of Leuven and the University Hospital of Leuven in Belgium. Joris Vermeesch, chair of the Centre for Human Genetics and a leading expert in human genetics, will coordinate the collaboration.
The earlier collaboration preceded the commercial launch of Agilent's OneSight software platform, which helps researchers visualize and explore chromosomal and sub-chromosomal aneuploidies in cell-free DNA sequencing data. Over the past few years, interest in cell-free DNA analysis has strongly increased, not only because it can be used to perform non-invasive prenatal testing, but also because cfDNA can be found in liquid biopsies from cancer patients. In addition, recent evidence suggests that cfDNA can be found in an embryo's blastocoel fluid and culture medium and used for preimplantation genetic screening.
The two teams are also investigating comprehensive solutions for preimplantation genetic testing, which could enable labs to use a single sequencing workflow to perform preimplantation genetic diagnoses for single gene disorders and translocation carriers as well as PGS for chromosomal abnormalities on the same embryo biopsy. The PGT development efforts are also supported by a grant from the Flemish government.
The collaborators estimate that a commercial solution for PGT analysis could be ready as early as this year, followed by a more extensive evaluation of the clinical utility of the PGT solution to discriminate between mitotic and meiotic aneuploidies and detect triploidy and uniparental isodisomy in embryo biopsies. These chromosomal abnormalities cannot be accurately detected by the currently available commercial solutions for PGS. It is the ultimate goal to enable the IVF community to reduce the number of IVF cycles and time that are needed to achieve a healthy live birth. If confirmed, the reduction in cost and time might then be the main drivers to obtain reimbursement with the corresponding authorities.
Jubilant Increases Price for Beta Picoline,
3-Cyanopyridine and Vitamin B3
Jubilant Life Sciences, a global leader in the pyridine, picolines and nutrition industry, announces a price increase of up to 15 per cent for its Beta Picoline, 3-Cyanopyridine and Vitamin B3 (Niacin & Niacinamide) with immediate effect, for non-contract customers and wherever existing contracts permit.
Jubilant Life Sciences, a global leader in the pyridine, picolines and nutrition industry, announces a price increase of up to 15 per cent for its Beta Picoline, 3-Cyanopyridine and Vitamin B3 (Niacin & Niacinamide) with immediate effect, for non-contract customers and wherever existing contracts permit.
BioAsia 2017 to Bring Together Global
Pharma Powerhouses
BioAsia, the annual flagship event of the Government of Telangana has over the years emerged as a preeminent technology and bio-business convention in Asia for Life sciences, pharmaceuticals and healthcare. Organized by the Department of Industries and Commerce, Government of Telangana today announced that the 14th Edition of BioAsia will bring together eminent industry leaders from across the globe. Demonstrating its dominant position, the event scheduled for February 6 - 8, 2017 is all set to bring together some of the most influential global corporate leaders to Hyderabad - the life sciences hub of India. BioAsia 2017 is expected to have participation of 1,500 delegates from 50 countries with 100 High profile speakers and 800 Corporates.
The 14th edition of the event, which is all set to be the biggest gathering, will have the likes Dr. Paul Stoffels, Worldwide Chairman of Pharmaceuticals and Chief Scientific Officer - Johnson & Johnson, Mr Vasant Narasimhan, Global Head of Drug Development and Chief Medical Officer for Novartis, Dr. Patrick Vallance, President Worldwide Pharmaceuticals, R&D - GSK, among many others.
With combined revenues, of the three companies, of about USD 170 Billion, Johnson and Johnson and Novartis are listed as top two pharmaceutical companies in the world. While Dr Paul Stoffels is recognized globally as the champion of innovation and drug development as he led the development of a number of leading products for the treatment of HIV, Vasant Narasimhan has been listed in the prestigious Fortune's '40 Under 40' 2015. Dr Patrick Vallance is the person driving GSK's efforts to combat antibiotic resistance.
BioAsia, the annual flagship event of the Government of Telangana has over the years emerged as a preeminent technology and bio-business convention in Asia for Life sciences, pharmaceuticals and healthcare. Organized by the Department of Industries and Commerce, Government of Telangana today announced that the 14th Edition of BioAsia will bring together eminent industry leaders from across the globe. Demonstrating its dominant position, the event scheduled for February 6 - 8, 2017 is all set to bring together some of the most influential global corporate leaders to Hyderabad - the life sciences hub of India. BioAsia 2017 is expected to have participation of 1,500 delegates from 50 countries with 100 High profile speakers and 800 Corporates.
The 14th edition of the event, which is all set to be the biggest gathering, will have the likes Dr. Paul Stoffels, Worldwide Chairman of Pharmaceuticals and Chief Scientific Officer - Johnson & Johnson, Mr Vasant Narasimhan, Global Head of Drug Development and Chief Medical Officer for Novartis, Dr. Patrick Vallance, President Worldwide Pharmaceuticals, R&D - GSK, among many others.
With combined revenues, of the three companies, of about USD 170 Billion, Johnson and Johnson and Novartis are listed as top two pharmaceutical companies in the world. While Dr Paul Stoffels is recognized globally as the champion of innovation and drug development as he led the development of a number of leading products for the treatment of HIV, Vasant Narasimhan has been listed in the prestigious Fortune's '40 Under 40' 2015. Dr Patrick Vallance is the person driving GSK's efforts to combat antibiotic resistance.
Protagen AG, Novartis Join Forces
PROTAGEN AG, a leading provider of pharma development services, novel diagnostic tests and companion diagnostics in the fields of immuno-oncology and autoimmune disease, today announced the successful completion a collaboration agreement with Novartis Pharma AG. During the collaboration, Protagen utilized its proprietary SeroTag technology to discover prediction as well as patient stratification markers for a novel drug being developed by Novartis.
Protagen CBO Georg Lautscham commented: "Our innovative SeroTag technology has proven on numerous occasions that it can monitor the immune-health status of patients, thereby allowing for the first time the systematic determination of response prediction and disease as well as patient stratification markers to select the most appropriate drug and therapy in autoimmune indications. This was evaluated in our collaboration with Novartis and we would like to thank Novartis' R&D team for the excellent, productive and collaborative relationship."
PROTAGEN AG, a leading provider of pharma development services, novel diagnostic tests and companion diagnostics in the fields of immuno-oncology and autoimmune disease, today announced the successful completion a collaboration agreement with Novartis Pharma AG. During the collaboration, Protagen utilized its proprietary SeroTag technology to discover prediction as well as patient stratification markers for a novel drug being developed by Novartis.
Protagen CBO Georg Lautscham commented: "Our innovative SeroTag technology has proven on numerous occasions that it can monitor the immune-health status of patients, thereby allowing for the first time the systematic determination of response prediction and disease as well as patient stratification markers to select the most appropriate drug and therapy in autoimmune indications. This was evaluated in our collaboration with Novartis and we would like to thank Novartis' R&D team for the excellent, productive and collaborative relationship."
Honeywell and Aereon to Leverage IIoT
for Oil and Gas
Honeywell and Aereon has announced they will collaborate on solutions to help industrial customers boost the safety, efficiency and reliability of their operations by leveraging Honeywell's Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) ecosystem.
"For years, manufacturers and producers have looked for ways to solve operational problems that were believed to be unsolvable - such as unplanned downtime, underperforming assets and inefficient supply chains," said Andrew Hird, vice president and general manager of Honeywell Process Solutions' Digital Transformation business. "With the capabilities of the IIoT, we can find new ways to solve those problems. A key part is the creation of an industrial ecosystem that leverages the depth of knowledge and experience of a range of equipment and service providers such as Aereon."
The Inspire ecosystem is a key part of Honeywell's Connected Plant initiative that helps manufacturers leverage the IIoT to improve the safety, efficiency and reliability of operations across a single plant or several plants across an enterprise.
Aereon is widely recognized for its innovative air emissions solutions for the complete oil and gas sector, from the wellhead to the gas station. It offers products for flare systems, enclosed combustion systems, high efficiency thermal oxidizers and vapor/gas recovery units. Honeywell and its ecosystem partners are building a simple-to-use infrastructure that gives customers secure methods to capture and aggregate data, and apply advanced analytics. This infrastructure leverages domain knowledge from a vast and unique ecosystem of leading equipment vendors and process licensors, and allows customers to use this information to determine methods to reduce or even eliminate manufacturing upsets and inefficiencies.
With a larger, consolidated data set, manufacturers and producers can apply higher analytics for more detailed insight, scale the data as needed to meet the varied needs of single-site or enterprise-wide operations, and leverage a wider pool of data experts for monitoring and analysis.
Honeywell and Aereon has announced they will collaborate on solutions to help industrial customers boost the safety, efficiency and reliability of their operations by leveraging Honeywell's Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) ecosystem.
"For years, manufacturers and producers have looked for ways to solve operational problems that were believed to be unsolvable - such as unplanned downtime, underperforming assets and inefficient supply chains," said Andrew Hird, vice president and general manager of Honeywell Process Solutions' Digital Transformation business. "With the capabilities of the IIoT, we can find new ways to solve those problems. A key part is the creation of an industrial ecosystem that leverages the depth of knowledge and experience of a range of equipment and service providers such as Aereon."
The Inspire ecosystem is a key part of Honeywell's Connected Plant initiative that helps manufacturers leverage the IIoT to improve the safety, efficiency and reliability of operations across a single plant or several plants across an enterprise.
Aereon is widely recognized for its innovative air emissions solutions for the complete oil and gas sector, from the wellhead to the gas station. It offers products for flare systems, enclosed combustion systems, high efficiency thermal oxidizers and vapor/gas recovery units. Honeywell and its ecosystem partners are building a simple-to-use infrastructure that gives customers secure methods to capture and aggregate data, and apply advanced analytics. This infrastructure leverages domain knowledge from a vast and unique ecosystem of leading equipment vendors and process licensors, and allows customers to use this information to determine methods to reduce or even eliminate manufacturing upsets and inefficiencies.
With a larger, consolidated data set, manufacturers and producers can apply higher analytics for more detailed insight, scale the data as needed to meet the varied needs of single-site or enterprise-wide operations, and leverage a wider pool of data experts for monitoring and analysis.
MSD in India Announces Leadership Change
MSD in India today announced leadership change. KG Ananthakrishnan (KG) current Managing Director of MSD in India will retire in the beginning of 2017 and Vivek Vasudev Kamath will assume role of Managing Director Designate from December 16, 2016. MSD in India operates its business in India through three legal entities, MSD Pharmaceuticals Private Limited, Organon (India) Private Limited, and Fulford (India) Limited.
Vivek joined MSD in India in July 2012 and is currently the Business Unit Director for Cardiovascular Metabolics and Market Access. KG and Vivek will work together to ensure smooth transition of business responsibilities.
Announcing the leadership change, Jan Van Acker, President Asia Pacific Region, MSD said, "I thank KG for his leadership and his contributions to MSD over the past ten years and congratulate Vivek on assuming the role of Managing Director of MSD in India. MSD has a robust succession planning process through which Vivek was identified to lead MSD in India and to deliver on our commitment to patients and communities in the Country. He has successfully led our Cardiovascular Metabolics and Market Access businesses and has fostered collaborative relationships with our customers and business partners, while delivering strong growth"
MSD in India today announced leadership change. KG Ananthakrishnan (KG) current Managing Director of MSD in India will retire in the beginning of 2017 and Vivek Vasudev Kamath will assume role of Managing Director Designate from December 16, 2016. MSD in India operates its business in India through three legal entities, MSD Pharmaceuticals Private Limited, Organon (India) Private Limited, and Fulford (India) Limited.
Vivek joined MSD in India in July 2012 and is currently the Business Unit Director for Cardiovascular Metabolics and Market Access. KG and Vivek will work together to ensure smooth transition of business responsibilities.
Announcing the leadership change, Jan Van Acker, President Asia Pacific Region, MSD said, "I thank KG for his leadership and his contributions to MSD over the past ten years and congratulate Vivek on assuming the role of Managing Director of MSD in India. MSD has a robust succession planning process through which Vivek was identified to lead MSD in India and to deliver on our commitment to patients and communities in the Country. He has successfully led our Cardiovascular Metabolics and Market Access businesses and has fostered collaborative relationships with our customers and business partners, while delivering strong growth"
Slayback Pharma Announces USD 60
Million in New Financing by KKR
Slayback Pharma, LLC, a privately held pharmaceutical research and development company, announced today the closing of a USD 60 million commitment by KKR, a leading global investment firm. The financing will help Slayback enhance and accelerate the development of its portfolio of complex generic and specialty pharmaceutical products.
Slayback is focused on expanding access to affordable health care. Since early 2011, Slayback has filed, through its out-licensing partners, numerous Abbreviated New Drug Applications (ANDAs) and 505(b)(2) applications with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for complex sterile and non-sterile dosage forms such as Propofol Injectable Emulsion USP 1 per cent and Generic Zovirax (Acyclovir) Ointment) 5 per cent, which the company announced last month. Additionally, Slayback is focused on bringing first generics to the market. Over the last five years, Slayback has developed two complex sterile products, which became rare sole First-to-File ANDAs with a Paragraph IV certification.
As part of the transaction, Ali Satvat and Neel Varshney of KKR will join Slayback's Board of Managers.
For KKR, the investment is part of the firm's health care growth equity strategy, which is focused on high-growth companies for which KKR can be a unique partner in helping reach scale. The investment in Slayback builds upon KKR's experience in the pharmaceutical value chain, including investments in Jazz Pharmaceuticals, Arbor Pharmaceuticals, Gland Pharmaceuticals, Coherus BioSciences, BridgeBio Pharma, PRA Health Sciences, Capsugel and Walgreens Boots Alliance.
Leerink Partners LLC served as financial advisor to Slayback on the transaction.
Slayback Pharma, LLC, a privately held pharmaceutical research and development company, announced today the closing of a USD 60 million commitment by KKR, a leading global investment firm. The financing will help Slayback enhance and accelerate the development of its portfolio of complex generic and specialty pharmaceutical products.
Slayback is focused on expanding access to affordable health care. Since early 2011, Slayback has filed, through its out-licensing partners, numerous Abbreviated New Drug Applications (ANDAs) and 505(b)(2) applications with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for complex sterile and non-sterile dosage forms such as Propofol Injectable Emulsion USP 1 per cent and Generic Zovirax (Acyclovir) Ointment) 5 per cent, which the company announced last month. Additionally, Slayback is focused on bringing first generics to the market. Over the last five years, Slayback has developed two complex sterile products, which became rare sole First-to-File ANDAs with a Paragraph IV certification.
As part of the transaction, Ali Satvat and Neel Varshney of KKR will join Slayback's Board of Managers.
For KKR, the investment is part of the firm's health care growth equity strategy, which is focused on high-growth companies for which KKR can be a unique partner in helping reach scale. The investment in Slayback builds upon KKR's experience in the pharmaceutical value chain, including investments in Jazz Pharmaceuticals, Arbor Pharmaceuticals, Gland Pharmaceuticals, Coherus BioSciences, BridgeBio Pharma, PRA Health Sciences, Capsugel and Walgreens Boots Alliance.
Leerink Partners LLC served as financial advisor to Slayback on the transaction.
Positive Bioscience Launches Positive– Academy for Training in Genomics and Clinical Applications
Positive Bioscience has launched Positive - Academy for Training in Genomics and Clinical applications (ATGC), an initiative to help oncologists gain competency at using genomics in their practice. The initiative will be rolled out across the country in association with ICON and MOS (Molecular Oncology Society).
Positive ATGC will conduct regular workshops in Delhi, Hyderabad, Bangalore, and Mumbai. Participants of the workshop will be awarded a certificate, which will be accepted as CME. The workshops will also be available online.
Positive ATGC workshops have been designed to enhance the education of clinical oncology professionals on the topics of cancer genomics, cancer risk assessment, and application of precision medicine in clinical practice. The workshops will include topics on technology and equipment, understanding and applying genomic report to clinical practice, as well as concept of pathways and its utility in clinical practice. Positive ATGC will also conduct six-month training programs on genomics for doctors. The training will be certified by a leading Medical University. Positive Academy for ATGC aims to reach out to over 200+ doctors by 2017.
The Academy will publish periodic newsletters for updating Oncologists with the latest developments in genomic technology.
Says Dr. Purvish M. Parikh, President of Molecular Oncology Society and Director of Precision Oncology at Asian Cancer Institute “The only way to optimize cure and treatment in cancer is by selecting the right drug at the very first instance. This requires proper understanding of the tumor as well as normal metabolism of the patient. These key aspects are identified only by in-depth genetic testing. Hence they have become the norm today's age of personalized medicine and precision oncology. In fact, we are quickly moving away from classifying cancer tumors based on organ of origin (e.g. breast or lung cancer) and now relooking at them based on driver mutations (changes in genetics that are causing the cell to become cancerous). For instance tumors that are caused by mutations in the "alk" gene will be called alkomas.”
Says Samarth Jain, Founder & CEO, Positive Biosciences “With the vast increase in knowledge stemming from genetics research and the development of new technologies in genomics, Genetics education and training of oncologists is critical for building capacities to understand, interpret, and appropriately apply such information. As the advancement of genetic technologies accelerates, so must the education and training efforts. This initiative is our contribution to enabling the integration of genomics into clinical practice, so that patients in India can benefit.
Positive Bioscience has launched Positive - Academy for Training in Genomics and Clinical applications (ATGC), an initiative to help oncologists gain competency at using genomics in their practice. The initiative will be rolled out across the country in association with ICON and MOS (Molecular Oncology Society).
Positive ATGC will conduct regular workshops in Delhi, Hyderabad, Bangalore, and Mumbai. Participants of the workshop will be awarded a certificate, which will be accepted as CME. The workshops will also be available online.
Positive ATGC workshops have been designed to enhance the education of clinical oncology professionals on the topics of cancer genomics, cancer risk assessment, and application of precision medicine in clinical practice. The workshops will include topics on technology and equipment, understanding and applying genomic report to clinical practice, as well as concept of pathways and its utility in clinical practice. Positive ATGC will also conduct six-month training programs on genomics for doctors. The training will be certified by a leading Medical University. Positive Academy for ATGC aims to reach out to over 200+ doctors by 2017.
The Academy will publish periodic newsletters for updating Oncologists with the latest developments in genomic technology.
Says Dr. Purvish M. Parikh, President of Molecular Oncology Society and Director of Precision Oncology at Asian Cancer Institute “The only way to optimize cure and treatment in cancer is by selecting the right drug at the very first instance. This requires proper understanding of the tumor as well as normal metabolism of the patient. These key aspects are identified only by in-depth genetic testing. Hence they have become the norm today's age of personalized medicine and precision oncology. In fact, we are quickly moving away from classifying cancer tumors based on organ of origin (e.g. breast or lung cancer) and now relooking at them based on driver mutations (changes in genetics that are causing the cell to become cancerous). For instance tumors that are caused by mutations in the "alk" gene will be called alkomas.”
Says Samarth Jain, Founder & CEO, Positive Biosciences “With the vast increase in knowledge stemming from genetics research and the development of new technologies in genomics, Genetics education and training of oncologists is critical for building capacities to understand, interpret, and appropriately apply such information. As the advancement of genetic technologies accelerates, so must the education and training efforts. This initiative is our contribution to enabling the integration of genomics into clinical practice, so that patients in India can benefit.
Rockwell Automation Organises Life Science Symposium in Mumbai
Rockwell Automation organised daylong session with the theme ‘Leveraging Technology to Ensure Quality and Compliance’ on 27 May 2016 in Mumbai to discuss how technology can be used to meet the needs of increased regulation and quality while reducing manufacturing costs and reducing risk in the Life Sciences industry. The symposium was attended by distinguished leaders from top Industry Associations, Pharma Manufacturers, Pharma Equipment Suppliers, Industry Consultants and Industry & Automation Specialist among others.
The event was designed for insightful discussions on:
- India Pharma Manufacturing: Global Expectations & Way forward
- Regulatory Environment & Infrastructure Necessities
- Role of Machinery Manufacturer in Creating a Growth Story
- Connecting Enterprise for Sustainable Manufacturing
- Leveraging Global Packaging Trends to Gain Competitive Advantage
Click here to view “Pharma Manufacturing Executive Presentation – The Connected Enterprises
Click here to view “The Connected Enterprise - Overview
Click here to view “The Connected Enterprise - Execution Model
Rockwell Automation organised daylong session with the theme ‘Leveraging Technology to Ensure Quality and Compliance’ on 27 May 2016 in Mumbai to discuss how technology can be used to meet the needs of increased regulation and quality while reducing manufacturing costs and reducing risk in the Life Sciences industry. The symposium was attended by distinguished leaders from top Industry Associations, Pharma Manufacturers, Pharma Equipment Suppliers, Industry Consultants and Industry & Automation Specialist among others.
The event was designed for insightful discussions on:
- India Pharma Manufacturing: Global Expectations & Way forward
- Regulatory Environment & Infrastructure Necessities
- Role of Machinery Manufacturer in Creating a Growth Story
- Connecting Enterprise for Sustainable Manufacturing
- Leveraging Global Packaging Trends to Gain Competitive Advantage
Click here to view “Pharma Manufacturing Executive Presentation – The Connected Enterprises
Click here to view “The Connected Enterprise - Overview
Click here to view “The Connected Enterprise - Execution Model
Apply Innovative Risk Strategies to Protect Consumers and Enhance Drug Safety
Marcus evans brings together heads of drug safety and regulatory affairs to establish effective pharmacovigilance strategies to comply with the global regulatory standards
Philadelphia, PA– June 11, 2015 – marcus evans, for the fifth year in a row, will host the Pharmacovigilance, Risk Management & AER Conference, September 16-17, 2015 in Philadelphia. As one of the marquee annual meetings in the marcus evans life science conference series, our expert speaker panel will cover how to manage changes in global regulatory standards and the impact on risk management and postmarket safety surveillance. Additionally, emerging challenges such as social media and signal detection and its role in pharmacovigilance across the product lifecycle will be discussed.
Featuring Case Studies from Leading Risk Management Experts, Including:
Syed S. Islam, M.D., MSPH, Dr. PH, Sr. Director, Global Surveillance and Pharmacoepidemiology, AbbVie Robert Livingston, M.D., MPH, Vice President, Drug Safety and Pharmacovigilance, Incyte Corporation Pedro L. Oyuela, M.D., MPH, Medical Director, Head of Medical Safety Review, Amgen Arshadul Haque, Senior Medical Director, Global Pharmacovigilance, Alexion Pharmaceuticals Arpad Simon, Vice President, Drug Safety and Pharmacovigilance, Relypsa, Inc.
For the last 4 years, pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical professionals have left this meeting with the ability to effectively monitor adverse event reports and comply with regulatory standards. This conference provides attendees with solutions to the ongoing pressures from government entities and public concern.
"Up to date, stimulating and interactive meeting. Enthusiastic audience & high quality speakers." Shire Pharmaceuticals
"Every marcus evans conference we attend has been exciting, informative. I recommend the conference to all of my colleagues. Always a job well done." Amarin Pharma Inc.
"The content of the event was very up to date and well explained. Q & A very interactive." Teva Pharmaceuticals
Marcus evans brings together heads of drug safety and regulatory affairs to establish effective pharmacovigilance strategies to comply with the global regulatory standards
Philadelphia, PA– June 11, 2015 – marcus evans, for the fifth year in a row, will host the Pharmacovigilance, Risk Management & AER Conference, September 16-17, 2015 in Philadelphia. As one of the marquee annual meetings in the marcus evans life science conference series, our expert speaker panel will cover how to manage changes in global regulatory standards and the impact on risk management and postmarket safety surveillance. Additionally, emerging challenges such as social media and signal detection and its role in pharmacovigilance across the product lifecycle will be discussed.
Featuring Case Studies from Leading Risk Management Experts, Including:
Syed S. Islam, M.D., MSPH, Dr. PH, Sr. Director, Global Surveillance and Pharmacoepidemiology, AbbVie Robert Livingston, M.D., MPH, Vice President, Drug Safety and Pharmacovigilance, Incyte Corporation Pedro L. Oyuela, M.D., MPH, Medical Director, Head of Medical Safety Review, Amgen Arshadul Haque, Senior Medical Director, Global Pharmacovigilance, Alexion Pharmaceuticals Arpad Simon, Vice President, Drug Safety and Pharmacovigilance, Relypsa, Inc.
For the last 4 years, pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical professionals have left this meeting with the ability to effectively monitor adverse event reports and comply with regulatory standards. This conference provides attendees with solutions to the ongoing pressures from government entities and public concern.
"Up to date, stimulating and interactive meeting. Enthusiastic audience & high quality speakers." Shire Pharmaceuticals
"Every marcus evans conference we attend has been exciting, informative. I recommend the conference to all of my colleagues. Always a job well done." Amarin Pharma Inc.
"The content of the event was very up to date and well explained. Q & A very interactive." Teva Pharmaceuticals
Superba(TM) Krill Oil Receives Regulatory Approval in India
Aker BioMarine Antarctic AS, a customer-driven supplier of krill-derived phospholipid omega-3 products, has received product approval for Superba(TM) Krill oil from Food Safety Standards Authorities of India (FSSAI). According to publically available information, Superba(TM) Krill oil is, as of today, the first and only krill oil that has obtained product approval by the FSSAI.
"We are delighted to introduce Superba(TM) Krill oil - an omega-3 product evaluated in several clinical studies - to the Indian market," said Atul Barman, Aker BioMarine Antarctic AS's India representative in Mumbai. "This new ingredient approval will enable Indian consumers to benefit from omega-3 fatty acids in phospholipid form. Omega-3 phospholipids are more efficiently incorporated into cell membranes and are therefore an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids to support heart, brain and joint health."
"This approval represents a key milestone for our entry into India," said Tim de Haas, Vice President of Business Development, Aker BioMarine Antarctic AS, Oslo, Norway. "We feel confident that with our local presence we can successfully support our customers in India. Backed by our success, especially in the US and Australian markets, expanding into the Indian dietary supplement market presents great opportunities for Superba(TM) Krill oil."
Aker BioMarine Antarctic AS, a customer-driven supplier of krill-derived phospholipid omega-3 products, has received product approval for Superba(TM) Krill oil from Food Safety Standards Authorities of India (FSSAI). According to publically available information, Superba(TM) Krill oil is, as of today, the first and only krill oil that has obtained product approval by the FSSAI.
"We are delighted to introduce Superba(TM) Krill oil - an omega-3 product evaluated in several clinical studies - to the Indian market," said Atul Barman, Aker BioMarine Antarctic AS's India representative in Mumbai. "This new ingredient approval will enable Indian consumers to benefit from omega-3 fatty acids in phospholipid form. Omega-3 phospholipids are more efficiently incorporated into cell membranes and are therefore an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids to support heart, brain and joint health."
"This approval represents a key milestone for our entry into India," said Tim de Haas, Vice President of Business Development, Aker BioMarine Antarctic AS, Oslo, Norway. "We feel confident that with our local presence we can successfully support our customers in India. Backed by our success, especially in the US and Australian markets, expanding into the Indian dietary supplement market presents great opportunities for Superba(TM) Krill oil."
Free Webinar & Demo of Pharmacovigilance Software PV247
Coimbatore-based global pharmacovigilance consulting & drug safety services company Oviya MedSafe and St Neots-based software development company Assured Information Systems joined hands in April 2014, to provide phenomenally cost-effective pharmacovigilance support to pharmaceutical companies. This strategic alliance aspires to promote the adoption of drug safety systems, especially among small & mid-sized innovators and generic drug marketers of any size throughout the world, by delivering comprehensive pharmacovigilance solutions in an economical and user-friendly manner.
PV247, a product of Assured, is a human pharmacovigilance hosted software database that offers intuitive end-to-end pharmacovigilance support to the global pharmaceutical industry. PV247 is E2B and 21 CFR Part 11 compliant. It is capable of electronic reporting to all regulatory authorities across the globe, including EMA and USFDA. Oviya MedSafe represents Assured in India & the Asia Pacific region.
Oviya MedSafe and Assured have jointly announced a free webinar & demo session on PV247 to share the advantages of this hosted application with its prospective users. This session has been exclusively designed to showcase the user-friendliness of PV247 and to educate the end-user of its capabilities. This free webinar & demo has been scheduled on Wednesday 10th September 2014 between 3 pm and 4 pm IST.
Pharmacovigilance professionals working in pharmaceutical companies are invited to register to attend the webinar & demo. For registration, the professionals are requested to write to register@oviyamedsafe.com with their name, designation, organization name, official e-mail address and mobile numbers. The deadline for the registration will be 6 pm IST on 08-September-2014. Early registration is preferred, as the number of places is limited. For queries, please call Karthik @ +918220763222.
Coimbatore-based global pharmacovigilance consulting & drug safety services company Oviya MedSafe and St Neots-based software development company Assured Information Systems joined hands in April 2014, to provide phenomenally cost-effective pharmacovigilance support to pharmaceutical companies. This strategic alliance aspires to promote the adoption of drug safety systems, especially among small & mid-sized innovators and generic drug marketers of any size throughout the world, by delivering comprehensive pharmacovigilance solutions in an economical and user-friendly manner.
PV247, a product of Assured, is a human pharmacovigilance hosted software database that offers intuitive end-to-end pharmacovigilance support to the global pharmaceutical industry. PV247 is E2B and 21 CFR Part 11 compliant. It is capable of electronic reporting to all regulatory authorities across the globe, including EMA and USFDA. Oviya MedSafe represents Assured in India & the Asia Pacific region.
Oviya MedSafe and Assured have jointly announced a free webinar & demo session on PV247 to share the advantages of this hosted application with its prospective users. This session has been exclusively designed to showcase the user-friendliness of PV247 and to educate the end-user of its capabilities. This free webinar & demo has been scheduled on Wednesday 10th September 2014 between 3 pm and 4 pm IST.
Pharmacovigilance professionals working in pharmaceutical companies are invited to register to attend the webinar & demo. For registration, the professionals are requested to write to register@oviyamedsafe.com with their name, designation, organization name, official e-mail address and mobile numbers. The deadline for the registration will be 6 pm IST on 08-September-2014. Early registration is preferred, as the number of places is limited. For queries, please call Karthik @ +918220763222.
Adopting a Risk-Based Approach to Drug Safety and Pharmacovigilance
Interview with Matthew Dormarunno, PharmD, Sr. Director, U.S. Risk Identification, Surveillance, and Communication at Sanofi
With growing government and public concern over drug safety, pharmacovigilance has never been more important. To ensure patient safety, minimize costs and ease regulatory compliance, pharmaceutical firms must aggressively detect and manage emerging safety risks. Yet early risk detection can be undercut by manual processes and a lack of integration across information outlets. This increased concern for drug safety has caused pharmaceutical companies to adopt more proactive risk management strategies.
Matthew Dormarunno, Sr. Director at Sanofi recently spoke with marcus evans about key topics to be discussed at their upcoming 4th Pharmacovigilance, Risk Management & AER Conference, September 17-18, 2014 in Philadelphia, PA.
Passive vs. Active Surveillance: What are the benefits of each?
MD: Passive surveillance uses existing adverse event data sources that are typically designed specifically to capture adverse events. Active surveillance often requires using new data sources that may provide insight for events not frequently reported or captured in typical adverse event databases. Often it does not rely on spontaneous reporting of adverse events, which is largely voluntary in the post-market setting. An additional goal is to provide more real-time insights and avoid lag time sometimes associated with passive surveillance.
What useful information can come from leveraging data from Individual Case Study Reports (ICSRs)?
MD: It is dependent heavily on the quality of the report, which can vary greatly. However, frequent (as close to real-time as possible) medical review of ICSRs is an important part of any safety signal detection program. In some cases, a single, well-documented event can be captured in an ICSR that is strong enough to establish a relationship to treatment, leading to changes in the label and associated product- related information documents.
Why is post-market safety surveillance so important?
MD: Mainly due to the fact that clinical studies, the other major source of safety data, are often limited in a variety of ways, including:
MD: The FDA Adverse Event Reporting System provides a larger, more diverse background than most company safety databases, on which proactive quantitative signal detection can be conducted. However, quantitative signal detection in FAERS is generally limited to hypothesis generation and interpretation can be difficult with frequent false positives.
What do you hope to gain/learn from attending this conference?
MD: Understanding of current practices and trends in pharmacovigilance and gain perspectives from others to enhance and improve my own skill set. I hope to share my experience and insight gained from a variety of safety roles in multiple companies and across varied product portfolios (pharmaceutical, vaccines, and consumer).
For more information regarding the highly anticipated marcus evans 4th Pharmacovigilance, Risk Management & AER Conference, please check out the conference website or contact Tyler Kelch, Marketing Coordinator, Media & PR, marcus evans at 312-894-6310 or Tylerke@marcusevansch.com.
Matthew Dormarunno is Senior Director, US Drug Safety at Sanofi and has been working in Pharmacovigilance, Safety Signal Detection, and Risk Management for more than 8 years at both Johnson & Johnson and Sanofi, in positions of increasing responsibility. Following undergraduate training in Microbiology at the University of Arizona and completion of his PharmD at the University of Michigan, he worked as an Operating Room Pharmacist at St Joseph Mercy Health System in Ypsilanti, Michigan.He also completed a Post-doctoral fellowship in Benefit Risk Management at Johnson & Johnson. His experience in Pharmacovigilance spans multiple therapeutic areas, including oncology, cardiovascular, biologics, neurology, infectious disease, diabetes, internal medicine, and vaccines, covering products from early clinical development through post-marketing. He has served as a guest lecturer at Temple University, as Director of the Post-doctoral fellowship in Safety Signal Detection at Johnson & Johnson, and as a preceptor for PharmD students at Wilkes University.
Interview with Matthew Dormarunno, PharmD, Sr. Director, U.S. Risk Identification, Surveillance, and Communication at Sanofi
With growing government and public concern over drug safety, pharmacovigilance has never been more important. To ensure patient safety, minimize costs and ease regulatory compliance, pharmaceutical firms must aggressively detect and manage emerging safety risks. Yet early risk detection can be undercut by manual processes and a lack of integration across information outlets. This increased concern for drug safety has caused pharmaceutical companies to adopt more proactive risk management strategies.
Matthew Dormarunno, Sr. Director at Sanofi recently spoke with marcus evans about key topics to be discussed at their upcoming 4th Pharmacovigilance, Risk Management & AER Conference, September 17-18, 2014 in Philadelphia, PA.
Passive vs. Active Surveillance: What are the benefits of each?
MD: Passive surveillance uses existing adverse event data sources that are typically designed specifically to capture adverse events. Active surveillance often requires using new data sources that may provide insight for events not frequently reported or captured in typical adverse event databases. Often it does not rely on spontaneous reporting of adverse events, which is largely voluntary in the post-market setting. An additional goal is to provide more real-time insights and avoid lag time sometimes associated with passive surveillance.
What useful information can come from leveraging data from Individual Case Study Reports (ICSRs)?
MD: It is dependent heavily on the quality of the report, which can vary greatly. However, frequent (as close to real-time as possible) medical review of ICSRs is an important part of any safety signal detection program. In some cases, a single, well-documented event can be captured in an ICSR that is strong enough to establish a relationship to treatment, leading to changes in the label and associated product- related information documents.
Why is post-market safety surveillance so important?
MD: Mainly due to the fact that clinical studies, the other major source of safety data, are often limited in a variety of ways, including:
- Limitations in the number of patients exposed
- Rare adverse events are often not detected until a larger group of individuals are exposed;
- Conversely, an event may be so common in the background of the treated patient population that a difference between treatment and placebo/comparator groups is not large enough to detect a difference during registration trials
- Restrictive enrollment
- Often many types of patients are excluded from clinical studies, therefore it is ultimately not fully representative of real-world use
- Medication errors, misuse, and quality issues
- These events will not be detected in trials, and ongoing monitoring is required to ensure product labeling is accurate and clear
- Quality issues may also be observed in post-market safety surveillance where an investigation can be requested and intervention taken to protect patients
MD: The FDA Adverse Event Reporting System provides a larger, more diverse background than most company safety databases, on which proactive quantitative signal detection can be conducted. However, quantitative signal detection in FAERS is generally limited to hypothesis generation and interpretation can be difficult with frequent false positives.
What do you hope to gain/learn from attending this conference?
MD: Understanding of current practices and trends in pharmacovigilance and gain perspectives from others to enhance and improve my own skill set. I hope to share my experience and insight gained from a variety of safety roles in multiple companies and across varied product portfolios (pharmaceutical, vaccines, and consumer).
For more information regarding the highly anticipated marcus evans 4th Pharmacovigilance, Risk Management & AER Conference, please check out the conference website or contact Tyler Kelch, Marketing Coordinator, Media & PR, marcus evans at 312-894-6310 or Tylerke@marcusevansch.com.
Matthew Dormarunno is Senior Director, US Drug Safety at Sanofi and has been working in Pharmacovigilance, Safety Signal Detection, and Risk Management for more than 8 years at both Johnson & Johnson and Sanofi, in positions of increasing responsibility. Following undergraduate training in Microbiology at the University of Arizona and completion of his PharmD at the University of Michigan, he worked as an Operating Room Pharmacist at St Joseph Mercy Health System in Ypsilanti, Michigan.He also completed a Post-doctoral fellowship in Benefit Risk Management at Johnson & Johnson. His experience in Pharmacovigilance spans multiple therapeutic areas, including oncology, cardiovascular, biologics, neurology, infectious disease, diabetes, internal medicine, and vaccines, covering products from early clinical development through post-marketing. He has served as a guest lecturer at Temple University, as Director of the Post-doctoral fellowship in Safety Signal Detection at Johnson & Johnson, and as a preceptor for PharmD students at Wilkes University.
Cancer Genetics to Buy BioServe
Cancer Genetics, Inc, a DNA-based diagnostics company focused on developing genomic-based oncology tests and services, has announced the agreement to acquire BioServe Biotechnologies (India) Pvt Ltd for approximately USD 1.9 million, primarily in CGIX stock and other deferred consideration. The transaction is expected to close during the third quarter of 2014 and is subject to customary closing conditions and government approvals in India.
Under the terms of the agreement, BioServe Biotechnologies (India) Pvt Ltd, headquartered in Hyderabad, India, will become a subsidiary of CGI, and will be renamed Cancer Genetics India Pvt Ltd. CGI plans on retaining all 33 current employees of BioServe India, and further expanding and strengthening the sales and clinical teams in India. BioServe India currently operates out of a state-of-the-art 14,000-square-foot genomics facility in Hyderabad. BioServe India is backed by Ventureast, a pioneering venture capital institution based in India, which has enabled over 80 seed, early and growth stage businesses in a broad array of sectors including technology, life sciences and clean environment.
BioServe India is a state-of-the-art genomics services provider and molecular kit manufacturer serving both the research and clinical markets. By utilising BioServe India's molecular services, researchers can identify genetic markers, validate drug targets and correlate clinical and molecular data to accelerate the development of new and effective drugs. Additionally, BioServe India’s growing clinical diagnostics capabilities in oncology and next-generation sequencing are well-positioned to serve the needs of improving oncology diagnostics care and management throughout India.
Cancer Genetics, Inc, a DNA-based diagnostics company focused on developing genomic-based oncology tests and services, has announced the agreement to acquire BioServe Biotechnologies (India) Pvt Ltd for approximately USD 1.9 million, primarily in CGIX stock and other deferred consideration. The transaction is expected to close during the third quarter of 2014 and is subject to customary closing conditions and government approvals in India.
Under the terms of the agreement, BioServe Biotechnologies (India) Pvt Ltd, headquartered in Hyderabad, India, will become a subsidiary of CGI, and will be renamed Cancer Genetics India Pvt Ltd. CGI plans on retaining all 33 current employees of BioServe India, and further expanding and strengthening the sales and clinical teams in India. BioServe India currently operates out of a state-of-the-art 14,000-square-foot genomics facility in Hyderabad. BioServe India is backed by Ventureast, a pioneering venture capital institution based in India, which has enabled over 80 seed, early and growth stage businesses in a broad array of sectors including technology, life sciences and clean environment.
BioServe India is a state-of-the-art genomics services provider and molecular kit manufacturer serving both the research and clinical markets. By utilising BioServe India's molecular services, researchers can identify genetic markers, validate drug targets and correlate clinical and molecular data to accelerate the development of new and effective drugs. Additionally, BioServe India’s growing clinical diagnostics capabilities in oncology and next-generation sequencing are well-positioned to serve the needs of improving oncology diagnostics care and management throughout India.
Biocon CMD Receives Othmer Gold Medal 2014
Pic: Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, CMD, Biocon
Biocon Ltd, Asia's premier biotechnology company, has announced that its Chairperson and Managing Director, Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, received the ‘Othmer Gold Medal 2014’ on Thursday, May 15, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA.
Established by the Chemical Heritage Foundation (CHF) in 1997, the annual award honors outstanding individuals who have made multifaceted contributions to chemical and scientific heritage through outstanding activity in such areas as innovation, entrepreneurship, research, education, public understanding, legislation or philanthropy.
Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw is the third woman to receive the Othmer Gold Medal and the first Indian to make it to this prestigious group. Nineteen people have been conferred with this honor till date, including Arnold O Beckman, Carl Djerassi, Mary Lowe Good, Harry B Gray, Jon M Huntsman, Kazuo Inamori, Robert S Langer, P Roy Vagelos, James D Watson, George Whitesides and Ahmed Zewail.
Carsten Reinhardt, President & CEO, CHF, handed over the Foundation's top award to Mazumdar-Shaw during CHF’s Chemical Heritage Day celebration that culminated with the presentation of the Othmer Gold Medal.
Pic: Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, CMD, Biocon
Biocon Ltd, Asia's premier biotechnology company, has announced that its Chairperson and Managing Director, Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, received the ‘Othmer Gold Medal 2014’ on Thursday, May 15, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA.
Established by the Chemical Heritage Foundation (CHF) in 1997, the annual award honors outstanding individuals who have made multifaceted contributions to chemical and scientific heritage through outstanding activity in such areas as innovation, entrepreneurship, research, education, public understanding, legislation or philanthropy.
Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw is the third woman to receive the Othmer Gold Medal and the first Indian to make it to this prestigious group. Nineteen people have been conferred with this honor till date, including Arnold O Beckman, Carl Djerassi, Mary Lowe Good, Harry B Gray, Jon M Huntsman, Kazuo Inamori, Robert S Langer, P Roy Vagelos, James D Watson, George Whitesides and Ahmed Zewail.
Carsten Reinhardt, President & CEO, CHF, handed over the Foundation's top award to Mazumdar-Shaw during CHF’s Chemical Heritage Day celebration that culminated with the presentation of the Othmer Gold Medal.
Bristol-Myers Squibb, Syngene Extent Collaboration
Bristol-Myers Squibb and Syngene International, India’s largest contract research organisation, have announced a five-year extension of their drug discovery and development collaboration in India. Financial terms were not disclosed.
Since 2007, Bristol-Myers Squibb has been working with Syngene and its corporate parent, Biocon Ltd, to develop integrated capabilities in medicinal and process chemistry, biology, biotechnology, biomarkers, drug metabolism and pharmacokinetics, analytical research, and pharmaceutical development at the Biocon Bristol-Myers Squibb Research Center (BBRC) in Bengaluru.
The US-India collaboration has produced six drug candidates for further study and also helped Bristol-Myers Squibb reduce the time and costs associated with advancing new compounds to first-in-human studies. One drug candidate currently in clinical trials was discovered at BBRC and early nonclinical development work done at BBRC has enabled most of Bristol-Myers Squibb’s small molecule assets to advance to later stages of development over the last five years.
Bristol-Myers Squibb and Syngene International, India’s largest contract research organisation, have announced a five-year extension of their drug discovery and development collaboration in India. Financial terms were not disclosed.
Since 2007, Bristol-Myers Squibb has been working with Syngene and its corporate parent, Biocon Ltd, to develop integrated capabilities in medicinal and process chemistry, biology, biotechnology, biomarkers, drug metabolism and pharmacokinetics, analytical research, and pharmaceutical development at the Biocon Bristol-Myers Squibb Research Center (BBRC) in Bengaluru.
The US-India collaboration has produced six drug candidates for further study and also helped Bristol-Myers Squibb reduce the time and costs associated with advancing new compounds to first-in-human studies. One drug candidate currently in clinical trials was discovered at BBRC and early nonclinical development work done at BBRC has enabled most of Bristol-Myers Squibb’s small molecule assets to advance to later stages of development over the last five years.
NuLEAP, Venostic Sign Partnership Deal
NuLEAP Technologies and Venostic Solutions announced a new strategic partnership to support Indian pharmaceutical companies’ needs for Computer Systems Validation and IT Compliance as per international global requirements.
Under the terms of the collaboration, NuLEAP and Venostic will provide a comprehensive set of services that will enable Indian pharmaceutical companies to develop regulatory processes for their computer systems validation and IT policies to ensure data integrity as per international norms. Several regulatory actions in recent months are driving the requirement for an in-depth review and solutions to meet international standards for data integrity and IT policies. NuLEAP’s local presence combined with Venostic’s international team will provide Indian organisations with the tools and services to effectively streamline their infrastructure, work practices and validation policies to meet international IT regulatory requirements that have been the subject of much attention in recent times.
NuLEAP Technologies and Venostic Solutions announced a new strategic partnership to support Indian pharmaceutical companies’ needs for Computer Systems Validation and IT Compliance as per international global requirements.
Under the terms of the collaboration, NuLEAP and Venostic will provide a comprehensive set of services that will enable Indian pharmaceutical companies to develop regulatory processes for their computer systems validation and IT policies to ensure data integrity as per international norms. Several regulatory actions in recent months are driving the requirement for an in-depth review and solutions to meet international standards for data integrity and IT policies. NuLEAP’s local presence combined with Venostic’s international team will provide Indian organisations with the tools and services to effectively streamline their infrastructure, work practices and validation policies to meet international IT regulatory requirements that have been the subject of much attention in recent times.
A Rise in IPOs Revive Investments for the Global Pharma and Biotech Industry
The heightened private equity and venture capital (PEVC) deal activity in the global healthcare industry during the recession years, 2008-2010, witnessed a decline post-2010. However, the fall in deals was not uniform among the constituent sectors, with the pharmaceutical, biotechnology and healthcare equipment sectors experiencing a much sharper decline in investor interest than the healthcare technology and provider segments. Investors started to bet on providers based with the conviction they can provide quicker and safer returns than the pharmaceutical and biotechnology space, which is ridden with regulatory challenges and patent expires.
New analysis from Frost & Sullivan’s Private Equity and Venture Capital Investment in the Global Pharmaceutical and Biotechnology Industry reveals the total number of PEVC deals in the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industry decreased from 1063 in 2010 to 480 in 2013. Though the returns from the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industry have been dwindling, they are better compared to the performance of other industries.
The heightened private equity and venture capital (PEVC) deal activity in the global healthcare industry during the recession years, 2008-2010, witnessed a decline post-2010. However, the fall in deals was not uniform among the constituent sectors, with the pharmaceutical, biotechnology and healthcare equipment sectors experiencing a much sharper decline in investor interest than the healthcare technology and provider segments. Investors started to bet on providers based with the conviction they can provide quicker and safer returns than the pharmaceutical and biotechnology space, which is ridden with regulatory challenges and patent expires.
New analysis from Frost & Sullivan’s Private Equity and Venture Capital Investment in the Global Pharmaceutical and Biotechnology Industry reveals the total number of PEVC deals in the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industry decreased from 1063 in 2010 to 480 in 2013. Though the returns from the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industry have been dwindling, they are better compared to the performance of other industries.
Lucrative Biosimilars Space to Erode Biologics Market from 2019
The increasing prevalence of biosimilars will have a noticeably negative impact on the biologics market beyond 2019, despite an initial projected Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 8.3 per cent, taking the overall biologics market value from USD 162 billion in 2013 to more than USD 262 billion by 2019, says research and consulting firm GlobalData.
The company’s latest report states that patent expirations of branded biologics and the introduction of clearer regulatory frameworks for biosimilars after 2019 will see the latter capturing the market share from biologics.
Joshua Owide, GlobalData’s Director of Healthcare Industry Dynamics, says: “There are a number of factors driving the initiative towards the global adoption of biosimilars, from austerity measures and slow economic growth in the US, to an aging population and increasing demand for healthcare in countries such as Japan.
The increasing prevalence of biosimilars will have a noticeably negative impact on the biologics market beyond 2019, despite an initial projected Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 8.3 per cent, taking the overall biologics market value from USD 162 billion in 2013 to more than USD 262 billion by 2019, says research and consulting firm GlobalData.
The company’s latest report states that patent expirations of branded biologics and the introduction of clearer regulatory frameworks for biosimilars after 2019 will see the latter capturing the market share from biologics.
Joshua Owide, GlobalData’s Director of Healthcare Industry Dynamics, says: “There are a number of factors driving the initiative towards the global adoption of biosimilars, from austerity measures and slow economic growth in the US, to an aging population and increasing demand for healthcare in countries such as Japan.
TGA Okeys Venus to Market Meropenem in Australia
Pic: Pawan Chaudhary, CMD, Venus Remedies
Venus Remedies Limited, a leading research-driven global pharmaceutical company, has received marketing authorisation for meropenem from Australia’s Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA). The company has tied up with Lupin to sell this drug in Australia. Eyeing a sizeable share in Australia’s USD 15 million meropenem market in the first year of launch, it plans to market the drug by the third quarter of this year.
With marketing approvals from more than 35 countries, Venus Remedies is poised to capture a significant share in the USD 1.3-billion global meropenem market.
Hailing the achievement, Venus Remedies Chairman and Managing Director Pawan Chaudhary said, “The marketing authorisation from TGA has once again proved the company's capabilities in developing world-class products that meet the most stringent regulatory requirements. This is yet another milestone for Venus Remedies in its journey of obtaining a significant share in the meropenem market globally. Having established strategic tie-ups to market the drug in countries where Venus Remedies has a presence, we enjoy an edge over other competitors.”
Meropenem is an off-patented antibacterial agent of the carbapenem class of antibiotics that caters to diseases with a broad range of serious infections caused by single or multiple susceptible bacteria in both adults and children.
Pic: Pawan Chaudhary, CMD, Venus Remedies
Venus Remedies Limited, a leading research-driven global pharmaceutical company, has received marketing authorisation for meropenem from Australia’s Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA). The company has tied up with Lupin to sell this drug in Australia. Eyeing a sizeable share in Australia’s USD 15 million meropenem market in the first year of launch, it plans to market the drug by the third quarter of this year.
With marketing approvals from more than 35 countries, Venus Remedies is poised to capture a significant share in the USD 1.3-billion global meropenem market.
Hailing the achievement, Venus Remedies Chairman and Managing Director Pawan Chaudhary said, “The marketing authorisation from TGA has once again proved the company's capabilities in developing world-class products that meet the most stringent regulatory requirements. This is yet another milestone for Venus Remedies in its journey of obtaining a significant share in the meropenem market globally. Having established strategic tie-ups to market the drug in countries where Venus Remedies has a presence, we enjoy an edge over other competitors.”
Meropenem is an off-patented antibacterial agent of the carbapenem class of antibiotics that caters to diseases with a broad range of serious infections caused by single or multiple susceptible bacteria in both adults and children.
US FDA Approves Addivant Weston 705 Liquid Antioxidant
Addivant, a global leader in polymer additive technologies, announced that Weston 705 liquid antioxidant, the next generation of nonylphenol-free phosphite technology, has received approval from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for food contact applications. Extensively researched and supported with comprehensive toxicology testing, Weston 705 antioxidant provides superior safety as well as enhanced polymer performance and higher processing productivity vs. conventional solid phosphites. The product delivers major benefits across the entire value chain, from resin producers and converters to retailers and consumers.
Further, Addivant’s Weston 705 antioxidant is produced in multiple facilities worldwide ensuring security of supply for customers around the globe.
Addivant, a global leader in polymer additive technologies, announced that Weston 705 liquid antioxidant, the next generation of nonylphenol-free phosphite technology, has received approval from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for food contact applications. Extensively researched and supported with comprehensive toxicology testing, Weston 705 antioxidant provides superior safety as well as enhanced polymer performance and higher processing productivity vs. conventional solid phosphites. The product delivers major benefits across the entire value chain, from resin producers and converters to retailers and consumers.
Further, Addivant’s Weston 705 antioxidant is produced in multiple facilities worldwide ensuring security of supply for customers around the globe.
Global Anti-Hypertensive Market Value to Decline
Multiple major drug patent expiries will cause the global anti-hypertensive market value to decline from USD 40 billion in 2013 to USD 37.6 billion by 2020, at a negative Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 0.9 per cent, says business intelligence provider GBI Research.
The company’s latest report states that while the anti-hypertensive market value is first expected to increase to USD 44.5 billion by 2017, representing a CAGR of 2.6 per cent, it will then fall at a negative CAGR of 5.4 per cent through to 2020.
Arti Singh, Analyst for GBI Research, says: “The initial expansion of this market will result from the increased penetration of fixed-dose combination drugs, such as Amturnide, Exforge, Tribenzor, Azor, Tekamlo and Valturna. A rise in the prevalence of hypertension, from a population of 181 million to 190 million, combined with the anticipated launches of azilsartan + amlodipine and AHU377 + valsartan, will also contribute.”
However, the hypertension market growth will be countered by significant drug patent expirations both prior to and during the forecast period, including those of Cozaar in 2010, Diovan, Avapro and Atacand in 2012, Exforge in 2014, Benicar in 2016 and Tekturna and Tekturna HCT in 2018. A low diagnosis rate, teamed with a rise in generic penetration, will also drive the decline.
Multiple major drug patent expiries will cause the global anti-hypertensive market value to decline from USD 40 billion in 2013 to USD 37.6 billion by 2020, at a negative Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 0.9 per cent, says business intelligence provider GBI Research.
The company’s latest report states that while the anti-hypertensive market value is first expected to increase to USD 44.5 billion by 2017, representing a CAGR of 2.6 per cent, it will then fall at a negative CAGR of 5.4 per cent through to 2020.
Arti Singh, Analyst for GBI Research, says: “The initial expansion of this market will result from the increased penetration of fixed-dose combination drugs, such as Amturnide, Exforge, Tribenzor, Azor, Tekamlo and Valturna. A rise in the prevalence of hypertension, from a population of 181 million to 190 million, combined with the anticipated launches of azilsartan + amlodipine and AHU377 + valsartan, will also contribute.”
However, the hypertension market growth will be countered by significant drug patent expirations both prior to and during the forecast period, including those of Cozaar in 2010, Diovan, Avapro and Atacand in 2012, Exforge in 2014, Benicar in 2016 and Tekturna and Tekturna HCT in 2018. A low diagnosis rate, teamed with a rise in generic penetration, will also drive the decline.
Jubilant Bags USD 147.5 Mln from IFC
Pic: Shyam S Bhartia, CMD, Jubilant Life Sciences
IFC, a member of the World Bank Group, is lending USD 147.5 million to Jubilant Pharma Limited to enable better access to quality and affordable pharmaceuticals in underserved markets in India and across the world. Jubilant Pharma, a wholly owned subsidiary of Jubilant Life Sciences Limited, is incorporated in Singapore, with manufacturing operations in India, USA, and Canada.
Of the total financing package, USD 110 million is from IFC’s own account. The remaining USD 37.5 million is from IFC’s Managed Co-Lending Portfolio Program, which provides additional long-term financing through co-financing partners. The loan will help Jubilant Life Sciences increase focus on the pharmaceutical sector and strengthen its generic drug manufacturing facilities in India.
"We consider IFC a long-term partner with significant healthcare expertise across emerging markets. IFC’s contribution goes beyond financing. IFC will also help us strengthen our quality assurance and risk mitigation mechanisms and make the company systems more robust,” said Shyam S Bhartia, Chairman and Managing Director, Jubilant Life Sciences. “IFC’s long-term financing package will consolidate our entire pharmaceuticals business under Jubilant Pharma and build global competitiveness.”
Pic: Shyam S Bhartia, CMD, Jubilant Life Sciences
IFC, a member of the World Bank Group, is lending USD 147.5 million to Jubilant Pharma Limited to enable better access to quality and affordable pharmaceuticals in underserved markets in India and across the world. Jubilant Pharma, a wholly owned subsidiary of Jubilant Life Sciences Limited, is incorporated in Singapore, with manufacturing operations in India, USA, and Canada.
Of the total financing package, USD 110 million is from IFC’s own account. The remaining USD 37.5 million is from IFC’s Managed Co-Lending Portfolio Program, which provides additional long-term financing through co-financing partners. The loan will help Jubilant Life Sciences increase focus on the pharmaceutical sector and strengthen its generic drug manufacturing facilities in India.
"We consider IFC a long-term partner with significant healthcare expertise across emerging markets. IFC’s contribution goes beyond financing. IFC will also help us strengthen our quality assurance and risk mitigation mechanisms and make the company systems more robust,” said Shyam S Bhartia, Chairman and Managing Director, Jubilant Life Sciences. “IFC’s long-term financing package will consolidate our entire pharmaceuticals business under Jubilant Pharma and build global competitiveness.”
Bosch Expands PreVAS Portfolio
At Interpack 2014, Bosch Packaging Technology, a leading supplier of process and packaging technology, presented the expanded portfolio of the single-use filling system PreVAS. “The existing system has been successfully introduced to the market. Now the time has come to offer our customers additional solutions for their existing line concepts and to consequently extend our portfolio,” Klaus Ullherr, product manager at Bosch Packaging Technology said. The name PreVAS stands for pre-validated, pre-assembled and pre-sterilized single-use filling systems, which Bosch Packaging Technology has developed in cooperation with Sartorius Stedim Biotech (SSB).
At Interpack 2014, Bosch Packaging Technology, a leading supplier of process and packaging technology, presented the expanded portfolio of the single-use filling system PreVAS. “The existing system has been successfully introduced to the market. Now the time has come to offer our customers additional solutions for their existing line concepts and to consequently extend our portfolio,” Klaus Ullherr, product manager at Bosch Packaging Technology said. The name PreVAS stands for pre-validated, pre-assembled and pre-sterilized single-use filling systems, which Bosch Packaging Technology has developed in cooperation with Sartorius Stedim Biotech (SSB).
Oviya MedSafe & Assured Information Systems Partner to Provide Pharmacovigilance Solutions
Indian pharmacovigilance consulting and drug safety services company Oviya MedSafe Pvt Ltd has signed an agreement with British software development company Assured Information Systems Ltd to combine the former's drug safety services with the latter's hosted pharmacovigilance database product PV247, to offer intuitive end-to-end pharmacovigilance support to the global pharmaceutical industry. This strategic alliance aspires to promote the adoption of drug safety systems, especially among small and mid-sized pharmaceutical companies throughout the world, by delivering comprehensive pharmacovigilance solutions in a cost-effective and user-friendly manner.
Dr J Vijay Venkatraman, Managing Director & CEO of Oviya MedSafe indicated that the alliance has happened at the right time. "As drug safety regulations begin to tighten globally, investing in pharmacovigilance becomes inevitable for all pharmaceutical companies", he said. He added "With Oviya MedSafe’s increasing recognition as a quality-conscious yet cost-effective pharmacovigilance service provider in the market since the past two years, our strategic partnership with Assured Information Systems, an established company with similar values, will help in achieving our shared goal of providing affordable,simplified yet reliable drug safety support.
Dr Alan K Rawling, Managing Director of Assured Information Systems said "This partnership with Oviya MedSafe recognises the need to provide a total pharmacovigilance solution that addresses the challenges of regulatory compliance, electronic reporting and signal detection. Combining our software and services expertise offers a unique proposition to pharmaceutical companies of all sizes within the Asian continent and globally to companies wishing to outsource to India".
Indian pharmacovigilance consulting and drug safety services company Oviya MedSafe Pvt Ltd has signed an agreement with British software development company Assured Information Systems Ltd to combine the former's drug safety services with the latter's hosted pharmacovigilance database product PV247, to offer intuitive end-to-end pharmacovigilance support to the global pharmaceutical industry. This strategic alliance aspires to promote the adoption of drug safety systems, especially among small and mid-sized pharmaceutical companies throughout the world, by delivering comprehensive pharmacovigilance solutions in a cost-effective and user-friendly manner.
Dr J Vijay Venkatraman, Managing Director & CEO of Oviya MedSafe indicated that the alliance has happened at the right time. "As drug safety regulations begin to tighten globally, investing in pharmacovigilance becomes inevitable for all pharmaceutical companies", he said. He added "With Oviya MedSafe’s increasing recognition as a quality-conscious yet cost-effective pharmacovigilance service provider in the market since the past two years, our strategic partnership with Assured Information Systems, an established company with similar values, will help in achieving our shared goal of providing affordable,simplified yet reliable drug safety support.
Dr Alan K Rawling, Managing Director of Assured Information Systems said "This partnership with Oviya MedSafe recognises the need to provide a total pharmacovigilance solution that addresses the challenges of regulatory compliance, electronic reporting and signal detection. Combining our software and services expertise offers a unique proposition to pharmaceutical companies of all sizes within the Asian continent and globally to companies wishing to outsource to India".
Bionomics Wins Innovative Asian Biotech of the Year Award
Bionomics Limited has been named as the Innovative Asian Biotech of the Year at this week’s BioPharma Asia Industry Awards during the BioPharma Asia Convention, at the Suntec Convention and Exhibition Centre in Singapore.
BioPharma Asia Convention is Asia’s largest biopharmaceutical event drawing almost 3,000 attendees from across the world with interests in biotech and pharmaceutical company partnering, industry trends and investment opportunities.
The citation underpinning the Innovative Asian Biotech of the Year award made reference to Bionomics’ ability to adopt innovative technologies to develop novel drugs. It is also acknowledged the company’s approach to drug development including the implementation of new processes, technologies or applications that achieve quantifiable and sustainable results.
Further, CEO & Managing Director Dr Deborah Rathjen was awarded the Life Science Woman Executive of the Year award for her contribution to both the biopharma industry and society. Conference leaders cited achievement of excellent results while demonstrating high levels of professionalism.
Bionomics Limited has been named as the Innovative Asian Biotech of the Year at this week’s BioPharma Asia Industry Awards during the BioPharma Asia Convention, at the Suntec Convention and Exhibition Centre in Singapore.
BioPharma Asia Convention is Asia’s largest biopharmaceutical event drawing almost 3,000 attendees from across the world with interests in biotech and pharmaceutical company partnering, industry trends and investment opportunities.
The citation underpinning the Innovative Asian Biotech of the Year award made reference to Bionomics’ ability to adopt innovative technologies to develop novel drugs. It is also acknowledged the company’s approach to drug development including the implementation of new processes, technologies or applications that achieve quantifiable and sustainable results.
Further, CEO & Managing Director Dr Deborah Rathjen was awarded the Life Science Woman Executive of the Year award for her contribution to both the biopharma industry and society. Conference leaders cited achievement of excellent results while demonstrating high levels of professionalism.
Jubilant Life Sciences Increase Price of Niacin by 18%
Jubilant Life Sciences, a significant player in the Nutrition market and ranked amongst the largest manufacturers of Vitamin B3 (Niacin & Niacinamide) in the world announces a price-increase of 18 per cent for Niacin feed-grade, with immediate effect, for non-contract customers and wherever existing contracts permit.
Jubilant delivers unmatched advantages of consistent quality and availability of Vitamin B3 (Niacin & Niacinamide) to its customers globally. The Company’s nutrition business is backward integrated up to the initial raw material stage with global scale of operations.
Jubilant Life Sciences, a significant player in the Nutrition market and ranked amongst the largest manufacturers of Vitamin B3 (Niacin & Niacinamide) in the world announces a price-increase of 18 per cent for Niacin feed-grade, with immediate effect, for non-contract customers and wherever existing contracts permit.
Jubilant delivers unmatched advantages of consistent quality and availability of Vitamin B3 (Niacin & Niacinamide) to its customers globally. The Company’s nutrition business is backward integrated up to the initial raw material stage with global scale of operations.
Macroeconomic Developments Currently Looming Over Turkey's Pharmaceutical Market Development
Business Monitor has just released its latest findings on Turkey’s Pharmaceuticals & Healthcare sector in its newly-published Turkey Pharmaceuticals & Healthcare Report.
Turkey's pharmaceutical market has faced stifling regulatory control over the last five years, which drugmakers have largely borne in return for access to a growing market. With market growth in question over the short-term and Business Monitor’s 2014 forecast posing downside risk, macroeconomic developments are currently looming over pharmaceutical market development.
In Business Monitor’s Pharmaceutical Risk/Reward Rating table Turkey is ranked the ninth most attractive business environment out of the 20 markets surveyed in Emerging Europe, declining from fifth in the previous quarter on account of a declining assessment of both market potential and regulatory risk. Turkey's large drug market, coupled with the sector's long-term growth potential, means that the country scores above the average for the region in spite of a slight downward adjustment to Business Monitor’s appraisal. In terms of risks, several rounds of pricing reforms mean that the country scores slightly below the regional average.
Business Monitor has just released its latest findings on Turkey’s Pharmaceuticals & Healthcare sector in its newly-published Turkey Pharmaceuticals & Healthcare Report.
Turkey's pharmaceutical market has faced stifling regulatory control over the last five years, which drugmakers have largely borne in return for access to a growing market. With market growth in question over the short-term and Business Monitor’s 2014 forecast posing downside risk, macroeconomic developments are currently looming over pharmaceutical market development.
In Business Monitor’s Pharmaceutical Risk/Reward Rating table Turkey is ranked the ninth most attractive business environment out of the 20 markets surveyed in Emerging Europe, declining from fifth in the previous quarter on account of a declining assessment of both market potential and regulatory risk. Turkey's large drug market, coupled with the sector's long-term growth potential, means that the country scores above the average for the region in spite of a slight downward adjustment to Business Monitor’s appraisal. In terms of risks, several rounds of pricing reforms mean that the country scores slightly below the regional average.
Piramal Imaging’s Neuraceq Gets FDA Nod
Piramal Imaging announced that the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved Neurace. This approval comes only four weeks after receiving marketing authorization for Neuraceq from the European Commission.
Neuraceq is indicated for Positron Emission Tomography (PET) imaging of the brain to estimate beta-amyloid neuritic plaque density in adult patients with cognitive impairment who are being evaluated for Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and other causes of cognitive decline.
There are an estimated 7.7 million new cases of dementia each year worldwide. Alzheimer’s disease accounts for 60-80 per cent of all dementia diagnoses. However, a clinical diagnosis of probable AD is incorrect upon post-mortem histological investigation in 10–30 per cent of cases.
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has declared it will cover a beta-amyloid PET scan for patients under Coverage with Evidence Development (CED) programmes. The objective of these programs is to assess the impact of beta-amyloid scans on improving patient outcomes or advancing patient treatment options.
The FDA approval of Neuraceq is based on safety data from 872 patients who participated in global clinical trials as well as three studies that examined images from adults with a range of cognitive function, including 205 end-of-life patients who had agreed to participate in a post-mortem brain donation programme. Images were analysed from 82 subjects with post-mortem confirmation of the presence or absence of beta-amyloid neuritic plaques. Correlation of the visual PET interpretation with histopathology in these 82 brains demonstrated that Neuraceq accurately detects moderate to frequent beta-amyloid neuritic plaques in the brain and is a useful tool to estimate the density of these plaques in life.
Piramal Imaging has partnered with IBA Molecular for manufacturing and distribution of Neuraceq. IBA Molecular owns and operates a network of 49 PET isotope facilities worldwide, a network that is unique in both size and scope.
Piramal Imaging announced that the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved Neurace. This approval comes only four weeks after receiving marketing authorization for Neuraceq from the European Commission.
Neuraceq is indicated for Positron Emission Tomography (PET) imaging of the brain to estimate beta-amyloid neuritic plaque density in adult patients with cognitive impairment who are being evaluated for Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and other causes of cognitive decline.
There are an estimated 7.7 million new cases of dementia each year worldwide. Alzheimer’s disease accounts for 60-80 per cent of all dementia diagnoses. However, a clinical diagnosis of probable AD is incorrect upon post-mortem histological investigation in 10–30 per cent of cases.
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has declared it will cover a beta-amyloid PET scan for patients under Coverage with Evidence Development (CED) programmes. The objective of these programs is to assess the impact of beta-amyloid scans on improving patient outcomes or advancing patient treatment options.
The FDA approval of Neuraceq is based on safety data from 872 patients who participated in global clinical trials as well as three studies that examined images from adults with a range of cognitive function, including 205 end-of-life patients who had agreed to participate in a post-mortem brain donation programme. Images were analysed from 82 subjects with post-mortem confirmation of the presence or absence of beta-amyloid neuritic plaques. Correlation of the visual PET interpretation with histopathology in these 82 brains demonstrated that Neuraceq accurately detects moderate to frequent beta-amyloid neuritic plaques in the brain and is a useful tool to estimate the density of these plaques in life.
Piramal Imaging has partnered with IBA Molecular for manufacturing and distribution of Neuraceq. IBA Molecular owns and operates a network of 49 PET isotope facilities worldwide, a network that is unique in both size and scope.
EMA Begins Adaptive Licensing Pilot Project
The European Medicines Agency (EMA) is inviting companies to participate in its adaptive licensing pilot project. Companies who are interested in participating in the pilot are requested to submit ongoing medicine development programmes for consideration as prospective pilot cases. A framework to guide discussions of individual pilot studies has been published.
The adaptive licensing approach, sometimes called staggered approval or progressive licensing, is part of the Agency’s efforts to improve timely access for patients to new medicines. It is a prospectively planned process, starting with the early authorisation of a medicine in a restricted patient population, followed by iterative phases of evidence gathering and adaptations of the marketing authorisation to expand access to the medicine to broader patient populations.
As a holistic approach, adaptive licensing requires the involvement of all stakeholders who have a role in determining patient access, including the EMA, the industry, health technology assessment (HTA) bodies, organisations issuing clinical treatment guidelines and patient organisations. All discussions will take place in a ‘safe harbour’ environment to allow free exploration of the strengths and weaknesses of all options for development, assessment, licensing, reimbursement, monitoring, and utilisation pathways in a confidential manner and without commitment from either side.
The European Medicines Agency (EMA) is inviting companies to participate in its adaptive licensing pilot project. Companies who are interested in participating in the pilot are requested to submit ongoing medicine development programmes for consideration as prospective pilot cases. A framework to guide discussions of individual pilot studies has been published.
The adaptive licensing approach, sometimes called staggered approval or progressive licensing, is part of the Agency’s efforts to improve timely access for patients to new medicines. It is a prospectively planned process, starting with the early authorisation of a medicine in a restricted patient population, followed by iterative phases of evidence gathering and adaptations of the marketing authorisation to expand access to the medicine to broader patient populations.
As a holistic approach, adaptive licensing requires the involvement of all stakeholders who have a role in determining patient access, including the EMA, the industry, health technology assessment (HTA) bodies, organisations issuing clinical treatment guidelines and patient organisations. All discussions will take place in a ‘safe harbour’ environment to allow free exploration of the strengths and weaknesses of all options for development, assessment, licensing, reimbursement, monitoring, and utilisation pathways in a confidential manner and without commitment from either side.
BioClinica Signs USD 30 Million eClinical Contracts with 2 Major Pharma Companies
BioClinica, Inc, a leading provider of specialized outsourced clinical trial services, recently penned USD 30 million in multi-year contract renewals with two major pharmaceutical companies. Collectively these engagements encompass cloud-based technologies and professional services and training across BioClinica’s full eClinical product suite: OnPoint CTMS, Express EDC, Trident IRT, and clinical supplies Optimiser.
Under the contracts BioClinica will support several hundred clinical studies annually through 2017.
The contracts extend partnering arrangements that originated a decade ago. Since then, BioClinica has supported the two organisations in clinical trials across thousands of investigative sites worldwide.
In the first agreement, BioClinica will provide resources and subject matter expertise in clinical supply chain distribution systems and processes that extend to several thousand investigators using Interactive Response Technology (IRT) worldwide.
In the second agreement, BioClinica’s easy-to-use OnPoint CTMS and Express EDC technologies will provide the foundation for their clinical operations. Data management, study design, and related professional services that support clinical studies globally will also be provided.
Enterprise-wide implementation of cloud-based technologies is currently underway with BioClinica employees contracted to be embedded within each organisation, augmenting the pharmaceutical companies’ internal resources.
BioClinica, Inc, a leading provider of specialized outsourced clinical trial services, recently penned USD 30 million in multi-year contract renewals with two major pharmaceutical companies. Collectively these engagements encompass cloud-based technologies and professional services and training across BioClinica’s full eClinical product suite: OnPoint CTMS, Express EDC, Trident IRT, and clinical supplies Optimiser.
Under the contracts BioClinica will support several hundred clinical studies annually through 2017.
The contracts extend partnering arrangements that originated a decade ago. Since then, BioClinica has supported the two organisations in clinical trials across thousands of investigative sites worldwide.
In the first agreement, BioClinica will provide resources and subject matter expertise in clinical supply chain distribution systems and processes that extend to several thousand investigators using Interactive Response Technology (IRT) worldwide.
In the second agreement, BioClinica’s easy-to-use OnPoint CTMS and Express EDC technologies will provide the foundation for their clinical operations. Data management, study design, and related professional services that support clinical studies globally will also be provided.
Enterprise-wide implementation of cloud-based technologies is currently underway with BioClinica employees contracted to be embedded within each organisation, augmenting the pharmaceutical companies’ internal resources.
Praj Renames NeelaSystems as Praj HiPurity Systems
Praj Industries, global process solutions Company has changed the name of its subsidiary Neela Systems as Praj HiPurity Systems Limited. Praj Industries had acquired majority stake in Mumbai headquartered Neela Systems in 2012. The change of identity is in line with the growth plan of Praj HiPurity to go beyond pure water solutions for Pharma Industry to end-to-end, integrated solutions for pharma, biotech and cosmetics industriesand the enhanced shareholding of Praj in the subsidiary.
As part of the integrated solutions, Praj HiPurity will also offer wastewater treatment systems and Zero Liquid Discharge Systems in association with Praj Industries Limited. Additionally, the Company is working towards increased international business. Recently the Company bagged big ticket order from an American Multinational Pharma company for supply of integrated systems for a state-of-the-art facility at Vizag, Andhra Pradesh and also another client in Central Asia. The efforts are underway to repeat the success overseas.
Over the past three years, Praj has steadily increased its shareholding in Praj HiPurity Systems to the current 70 per cent. Praj HiPurity Systems has an impressive client profile with marquee customers from pharma, biotech and cosmetics industries. The parent brand “Praj” will help the company to grow its horizon further and increase its market reach. Praj Industries already has a global spread across 5 continents. Praj HiPurity will also benefit from the R & D efforts and the technology and process know-how. Praj HiPurity offers water treatment solutions & modular systems, and process engineering & design capability.
Praj Industries, global process solutions Company has changed the name of its subsidiary Neela Systems as Praj HiPurity Systems Limited. Praj Industries had acquired majority stake in Mumbai headquartered Neela Systems in 2012. The change of identity is in line with the growth plan of Praj HiPurity to go beyond pure water solutions for Pharma Industry to end-to-end, integrated solutions for pharma, biotech and cosmetics industriesand the enhanced shareholding of Praj in the subsidiary.
As part of the integrated solutions, Praj HiPurity will also offer wastewater treatment systems and Zero Liquid Discharge Systems in association with Praj Industries Limited. Additionally, the Company is working towards increased international business. Recently the Company bagged big ticket order from an American Multinational Pharma company for supply of integrated systems for a state-of-the-art facility at Vizag, Andhra Pradesh and also another client in Central Asia. The efforts are underway to repeat the success overseas.
Over the past three years, Praj has steadily increased its shareholding in Praj HiPurity Systems to the current 70 per cent. Praj HiPurity Systems has an impressive client profile with marquee customers from pharma, biotech and cosmetics industries. The parent brand “Praj” will help the company to grow its horizon further and increase its market reach. Praj Industries already has a global spread across 5 continents. Praj HiPurity will also benefit from the R & D efforts and the technology and process know-how. Praj HiPurity offers water treatment solutions & modular systems, and process engineering & design capability.
Jubilant Chemsys, IDRI Extends Partnership
Jubilant Chemsys, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Jubilant Life Sciences, and one of the most recognised drug discovery research services organizations from Asia, announced an extension of collaborative partnership with Infectious Disease Research Institute (IDRI) for TB drug discovery. Jubilant Chemsys offers drug discovery research services on Full Time Equivalent and Fees- for-services basis.
The collaboration in chemistry support has been in existence since 2009 as part of a joint effort with the Lilly TB Drug Discovery Initiative (LTI) and so far has generated hundreds of Novel Chemical Entities (NCEs) – some of which have now been identified for further exploration. Jubilant Chemsys, under the terms of agreement, so far had been offering philanthropic support and expertise in synthesis of NCEs to support the early research in TB.
IDRI is a founding member of both the LTI and the TB Drug Accelerator, a unique partnership funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation that targets the discovery of new TB drugs by collaborating on early-stage research. The Foundation recently awarded IDRI USD 3.4 million in additional funding to Tanya Parish, PhD, IDRI Vice President of Drug Discovery, and supplements an earlier grant awarded in 2010, for a total of USD 7.8 million. The grant is focused on identifying new leads and drug targets for tuberculosis with the ultimate goal of producing new drugs to treat TB.
With this association, Jubilant will continue to provide chemistry and medicinal chemistry support to IDRI. The company is also evaluating further liaisoning with IDRI in key functional areas like computational chemistry and Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics (DMPK) Services.
Jubilant Chemsys, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Jubilant Life Sciences, and one of the most recognised drug discovery research services organizations from Asia, announced an extension of collaborative partnership with Infectious Disease Research Institute (IDRI) for TB drug discovery. Jubilant Chemsys offers drug discovery research services on Full Time Equivalent and Fees- for-services basis.
The collaboration in chemistry support has been in existence since 2009 as part of a joint effort with the Lilly TB Drug Discovery Initiative (LTI) and so far has generated hundreds of Novel Chemical Entities (NCEs) – some of which have now been identified for further exploration. Jubilant Chemsys, under the terms of agreement, so far had been offering philanthropic support and expertise in synthesis of NCEs to support the early research in TB.
IDRI is a founding member of both the LTI and the TB Drug Accelerator, a unique partnership funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation that targets the discovery of new TB drugs by collaborating on early-stage research. The Foundation recently awarded IDRI USD 3.4 million in additional funding to Tanya Parish, PhD, IDRI Vice President of Drug Discovery, and supplements an earlier grant awarded in 2010, for a total of USD 7.8 million. The grant is focused on identifying new leads and drug targets for tuberculosis with the ultimate goal of producing new drugs to treat TB.
With this association, Jubilant will continue to provide chemistry and medicinal chemistry support to IDRI. The company is also evaluating further liaisoning with IDRI in key functional areas like computational chemistry and Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics (DMPK) Services.
StemCyte to Expand Operations in India
StemCyte India Therapeutics, a unit of StemCyte Inc - USA, has emerged as the only company in India in stem cell business to offer private banking, public banking and stem cell transplants with Umbilical Cord Blood (UCB) stem cells. Company plans to expand its operations in India by opening new collection centres across the country and build 5,000 plus public inventory of UCB units with focus on more transplants in next 2-3 years.
StemCyte India Therapeutics Pvt. Ltd. is a joint venture between StemCyte Inc - USA, Apollo Hospitals Enterprises Ltd and Cadila Pharmaceuticals Ltd. Company started its operations in India in 2010 and has stored 1000 plus public umbilical cord blood units till date. StemCyte has a wide network of collection centres spread across Delhi, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. The storage and processing centre is based out of it’s headquarter in Ahmedabad.
Kenneth J Giacin, Chairman & Director of StemCyte Inc - USA, said, “The success of Stem Cell Technology is not just in banking, but in its therapeutic application as well. StemCyte has released almost 2,000 cord blood units across 235 transplant centres worldwide, including 29 transplants in India. Operating a hybrid model of UCB stem cell banking, StemCyte worldwide has a public inventory of over 35,000 Umbilical Cord Blood Units.”
StemCyte India Therapeutics, a unit of StemCyte Inc - USA, has emerged as the only company in India in stem cell business to offer private banking, public banking and stem cell transplants with Umbilical Cord Blood (UCB) stem cells. Company plans to expand its operations in India by opening new collection centres across the country and build 5,000 plus public inventory of UCB units with focus on more transplants in next 2-3 years.
StemCyte India Therapeutics Pvt. Ltd. is a joint venture between StemCyte Inc - USA, Apollo Hospitals Enterprises Ltd and Cadila Pharmaceuticals Ltd. Company started its operations in India in 2010 and has stored 1000 plus public umbilical cord blood units till date. StemCyte has a wide network of collection centres spread across Delhi, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. The storage and processing centre is based out of it’s headquarter in Ahmedabad.
Kenneth J Giacin, Chairman & Director of StemCyte Inc - USA, said, “The success of Stem Cell Technology is not just in banking, but in its therapeutic application as well. StemCyte has released almost 2,000 cord blood units across 235 transplant centres worldwide, including 29 transplants in India. Operating a hybrid model of UCB stem cell banking, StemCyte worldwide has a public inventory of over 35,000 Umbilical Cord Blood Units.”
GSK's Eperzan Uses Novozymes Technology
Novozymes Biopharma DK A/S, a subsidiary of Novozymes A/S, a world leader in bioinnovation, has announced that its albumin-based VELTIS half-life extension technology is being used by GlaxoSmithKline in the recently authorised Eperzan (albiglutide) for the treatment of type 2 diabetes in Europe.
The application of Novozymes' VELTIS technology in the drug delivers an extended half-life which will enable patients to inject only once per week.
"The first approval for a product based on Novozymes' VELTIS technology, and marketed by one of the largest pharmaceutical companies in the world, marks a significant milestone for our half-life extension platform", says Thomas Videbæk, Executive Vice President, Business Development, Novozymes. “We consider this authorisation real proof that VELTIS can offer true benefits to patients, reducing the inconvenience with daily drug dosing."
VELTIS technology is a series of native and engineered human albumins. When combined with a drug candidate it offers the potential for tunable control of therapeutic half-life in a manner previously unachievable with other half-life extension platforms. In particular, the technology opens the door towards weekly, bi-weekly, or even monthly dosing regimens, a monumental shift away from the daily dosing regimens currently necessary to manage medical conditions.
Novozymes Biopharma DK A/S, a subsidiary of Novozymes A/S, a world leader in bioinnovation, has announced that its albumin-based VELTIS half-life extension technology is being used by GlaxoSmithKline in the recently authorised Eperzan (albiglutide) for the treatment of type 2 diabetes in Europe.
The application of Novozymes' VELTIS technology in the drug delivers an extended half-life which will enable patients to inject only once per week.
"The first approval for a product based on Novozymes' VELTIS technology, and marketed by one of the largest pharmaceutical companies in the world, marks a significant milestone for our half-life extension platform", says Thomas Videbæk, Executive Vice President, Business Development, Novozymes. “We consider this authorisation real proof that VELTIS can offer true benefits to patients, reducing the inconvenience with daily drug dosing."
VELTIS technology is a series of native and engineered human albumins. When combined with a drug candidate it offers the potential for tunable control of therapeutic half-life in a manner previously unachievable with other half-life extension platforms. In particular, the technology opens the door towards weekly, bi-weekly, or even monthly dosing regimens, a monumental shift away from the daily dosing regimens currently necessary to manage medical conditions.
HRA Pharma, Afaxys to Supply UPA to US Market
HRA Pharma and Afaxys Pharmaceuticals, a division of Afaxys, Inc, have formed a commercial partnership to supply ulipristal acetate (UPA), a selective progesterone receptor modulator, to the US market. The product is commonly known as ella in the US where it has been available since 2010.
Ella is a next-generation emergency contraceptive developed by HRA Pharma specifically for emergency contraceptive use. Ella was originally approved as an emergency contraceptive by the European Medicines Agency (EMA) in 2009 and subsequently by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2010. It is anticipated that the partnership of these two companies working closely together in the contraceptive field will make ella more widely available to women all over the US.
Commenting on the newly formed association between the two organisations, Erin Gainer, CEO of HRA Pharma, said, ‘‘We are looking forward to this collaborative relationship that we anticipate to prove successful in improving women’s access to ulipristal acetate emergency contraception in the USA. Having the same mission and goals as Afaxys with regards to empowering women with choice and options means we will achieve positive results, together.”
HRA Pharma and Afaxys Pharmaceuticals, a division of Afaxys, Inc, have formed a commercial partnership to supply ulipristal acetate (UPA), a selective progesterone receptor modulator, to the US market. The product is commonly known as ella in the US where it has been available since 2010.
Ella is a next-generation emergency contraceptive developed by HRA Pharma specifically for emergency contraceptive use. Ella was originally approved as an emergency contraceptive by the European Medicines Agency (EMA) in 2009 and subsequently by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2010. It is anticipated that the partnership of these two companies working closely together in the contraceptive field will make ella more widely available to women all over the US.
Commenting on the newly formed association between the two organisations, Erin Gainer, CEO of HRA Pharma, said, ‘‘We are looking forward to this collaborative relationship that we anticipate to prove successful in improving women’s access to ulipristal acetate emergency contraception in the USA. Having the same mission and goals as Afaxys with regards to empowering women with choice and options means we will achieve positive results, together.”
Piramal's Mumbai R & D Facility Wins GLP Certification from NGCMA
Piramal Enterprises Limited (PEL) announced that its Good Laboratory Practices (GLP) Department at Research & Development (R & D) facility in Goregaon, Mumbai has received the GLP Compliance Certification from the National Good Laboratory Practice Compliance Monitoring Authority (NGCMA), Government of India.
GLP is a quality system concerned with the organisational process and conditions under which non-clinical health and environmental safety studies are performed. The R & D facility in Goregaon, Mumbai is engaged in drug discovery and development of New Chemical Entities (NCE) in the area of Oncology and Metabolic Disorders.
Dr. Owe Owar, President - NCE Research, Piramal Enterprises Limited said, "The GLP certification is a testament to high quality research through thorough SOP-driven Good Laboratory Practices, competent well-trained personnel and systematic documentation at Piramal's NCE R & D facility in Mumbai. Piramal's NCE R & D unit is committed to realise its mission towards serving patients globally with medicines that matter.”
The certification states that specified studies in the areas of toxicity, mutagenicity, analytical and clinical chemistry testing, and others like hERG, bioanalysis and toxicokinetic evaluation conducted at Piramal Enterprises Ltd are compliant with GLP under OECD principles.
Piramal Enterprises Limited (PEL) announced that its Good Laboratory Practices (GLP) Department at Research & Development (R & D) facility in Goregaon, Mumbai has received the GLP Compliance Certification from the National Good Laboratory Practice Compliance Monitoring Authority (NGCMA), Government of India.
GLP is a quality system concerned with the organisational process and conditions under which non-clinical health and environmental safety studies are performed. The R & D facility in Goregaon, Mumbai is engaged in drug discovery and development of New Chemical Entities (NCE) in the area of Oncology and Metabolic Disorders.
Dr. Owe Owar, President - NCE Research, Piramal Enterprises Limited said, "The GLP certification is a testament to high quality research through thorough SOP-driven Good Laboratory Practices, competent well-trained personnel and systematic documentation at Piramal's NCE R & D facility in Mumbai. Piramal's NCE R & D unit is committed to realise its mission towards serving patients globally with medicines that matter.”
The certification states that specified studies in the areas of toxicity, mutagenicity, analytical and clinical chemistry testing, and others like hERG, bioanalysis and toxicokinetic evaluation conducted at Piramal Enterprises Ltd are compliant with GLP under OECD principles.
DIA Annual Conference to Address Current Situation of New Drug Development in East Asia
Professionals from across East Asia will discuss the latest hot topics in all stages of drug development at the 8th DIA Annual Conference in Japan for Asian New Drug Development.
The event will return for its eighth year on May 22 to 23, at Sola City Hall, Ochanomizu in Tokyo. Expert speakers will share information and experiences regarding the current situation of new drug development in the emerging East Asia region, and provide advice on how to improve the value and quality of new drugs.
Sessions will focus on the latest regulatory information, early phase clinical trial, collaboration between academic organisations, regulatory inspection, regional study communications and late phase development strategy.
The conference will feature presentations on the latest regulatory trends and regional clinical trials in Asia from industry leaders and high-profile representatives from Asian regulatory authorities, including the Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Agency (PMDA), China Food and Drug Administration (CFDA), and the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety in Republic of Korea. Academic speakers from Japan, China and Korea will also provide their future visions of new drug development and the role of academia collaboration in East Asia.
Program chair Hidetoshi Shuto, Corporate Executive for Astellas Pharma Inc.,said: “Drug development in East Asia has become extremely vigorous as the interests of organisations related to drug development expand. Such organisations are now not only interested in the advancement of drug development, but also the maximisation of generated value and the improvement of quality in new drug development.
Professionals from across East Asia will discuss the latest hot topics in all stages of drug development at the 8th DIA Annual Conference in Japan for Asian New Drug Development.
The event will return for its eighth year on May 22 to 23, at Sola City Hall, Ochanomizu in Tokyo. Expert speakers will share information and experiences regarding the current situation of new drug development in the emerging East Asia region, and provide advice on how to improve the value and quality of new drugs.
Sessions will focus on the latest regulatory information, early phase clinical trial, collaboration between academic organisations, regulatory inspection, regional study communications and late phase development strategy.
The conference will feature presentations on the latest regulatory trends and regional clinical trials in Asia from industry leaders and high-profile representatives from Asian regulatory authorities, including the Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Agency (PMDA), China Food and Drug Administration (CFDA), and the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety in Republic of Korea. Academic speakers from Japan, China and Korea will also provide their future visions of new drug development and the role of academia collaboration in East Asia.
Program chair Hidetoshi Shuto, Corporate Executive for Astellas Pharma Inc.,said: “Drug development in East Asia has become extremely vigorous as the interests of organisations related to drug development expand. Such organisations are now not only interested in the advancement of drug development, but also the maximisation of generated value and the improvement of quality in new drug development.
EL Seminar organized by Intertek held in Mumbai
Intertek, a leading quality solutions provider to industries worldwide organised and presented a seminar "Manage your Extractable & Leachables Risk" on Wednesday, 9th April 2014 at The Lalit, Mumbai. This one day seminar focused on providing detailed information and practical guidance on the issues associated with extractables and leachables (E/L) studies. An important part of pharmaceutical development is the assessment of substances that could potentially leach (leachables) into the drug product from packaging, components of printing ink, catalyst residues and heavy metals. E/L studies provide qualitative and quantitative data to build a comprehensive profile of extractable components and determine the extent to which such components actually leach and potentially contaminate a drug substance or drug product. The seminar provided insightful details regarding analytical approaches for evaluating E/L from different sources such as packaging or printing inks and also expert guidance on how to interpret analytical data in order to gain insight into risk assessment and validation of different manufacturing processes from an extractables and leachables perspective.
During his inaugural address at the seminar Dr. Armin Hauk, Senior Consultant, Head of GLP organisation, GMP responsible person acc. Swiss Pharma law said. “Studies of extractable and leachable components within packaging and closures are required to meet the safety requirements for marketed medicines. Intertek undertakes extractables / leachables studies for a wide range of drug products in a variety of packaging types, conducted in accordance with GLP and cGMP requirements.” He further added, “The seminar was an excellent platform to share Intertek’s valuable knowledge and experience as a global leader in testing services. This will allow companies to gather the information and perspective which they need to make a difference in their business”.
Intertek provides expertise in E/L studies from our centres of excellence in India (Mumbai, Europe (Basel) and the USA (Whitehouse, New Jersey).
Intertek, a leading quality solutions provider to industries worldwide organised and presented a seminar "Manage your Extractable & Leachables Risk" on Wednesday, 9th April 2014 at The Lalit, Mumbai. This one day seminar focused on providing detailed information and practical guidance on the issues associated with extractables and leachables (E/L) studies. An important part of pharmaceutical development is the assessment of substances that could potentially leach (leachables) into the drug product from packaging, components of printing ink, catalyst residues and heavy metals. E/L studies provide qualitative and quantitative data to build a comprehensive profile of extractable components and determine the extent to which such components actually leach and potentially contaminate a drug substance or drug product. The seminar provided insightful details regarding analytical approaches for evaluating E/L from different sources such as packaging or printing inks and also expert guidance on how to interpret analytical data in order to gain insight into risk assessment and validation of different manufacturing processes from an extractables and leachables perspective.
During his inaugural address at the seminar Dr. Armin Hauk, Senior Consultant, Head of GLP organisation, GMP responsible person acc. Swiss Pharma law said. “Studies of extractable and leachable components within packaging and closures are required to meet the safety requirements for marketed medicines. Intertek undertakes extractables / leachables studies for a wide range of drug products in a variety of packaging types, conducted in accordance with GLP and cGMP requirements.” He further added, “The seminar was an excellent platform to share Intertek’s valuable knowledge and experience as a global leader in testing services. This will allow companies to gather the information and perspective which they need to make a difference in their business”.
Intertek provides expertise in E/L studies from our centres of excellence in India (Mumbai, Europe (Basel) and the USA (Whitehouse, New Jersey).
Jubilant Biosys Extends Drug Discovery Alliance with Janssen Pharmaceutical
Jubilant Biosys, a Bengaluru based subsidiary of Jubilant Life Sciences, has expanded its drug discovery alliance with Janssen Pharmaceutica NV, Beerse, Belgium. The alliance was forged initially in the year 2011 and aims to deliver preclinical candidates to Janssen. The new agreement into multiple therapeutic areas has been expanded owing to Jubilant’s diversified skill sets in various therapeutic areas. Most of the research will be undertaken at Jubilant Biosys, India and some parts at Jubilant Discovery Center, USA.
Janssen Pharmaceutica, Belgium is part of the ‘JanssenPharmaceutical Companies of Johnson & Johnson’. The collaboration between the two organisations has been expanded to leverage Jubilant’s drug discovery capabilities on selected drug discovery targets to advance programmes in multiple disease areas. Jubilant will carry out research services and will deliver preclinical candidates to Janssen for potential development and commercialisation. In addition to research funding, Jubilant will also receive milestones and royalties should Janssen successfully progress the assets into clinical development and commercialisation.
"We are pleased to announce the expansion of the Janssen- Jubilant collaboration and look forward to discovering Novel Chemical Entities (NCE's) that address the unmet medical needs in these important disease areas", said Dr Subir K Basak, President, Jubilant Biosys (Global Drug Discovery Services)". Over the past several years, we have been strengthening our disease franchises from a scientific perspective, and this collaboration serves as a validation of those efforts. We look forward to a long, and mutually beneficial, partnership."
Jubilant Biosys, a Bengaluru based subsidiary of Jubilant Life Sciences, has expanded its drug discovery alliance with Janssen Pharmaceutica NV, Beerse, Belgium. The alliance was forged initially in the year 2011 and aims to deliver preclinical candidates to Janssen. The new agreement into multiple therapeutic areas has been expanded owing to Jubilant’s diversified skill sets in various therapeutic areas. Most of the research will be undertaken at Jubilant Biosys, India and some parts at Jubilant Discovery Center, USA.
Janssen Pharmaceutica, Belgium is part of the ‘JanssenPharmaceutical Companies of Johnson & Johnson’. The collaboration between the two organisations has been expanded to leverage Jubilant’s drug discovery capabilities on selected drug discovery targets to advance programmes in multiple disease areas. Jubilant will carry out research services and will deliver preclinical candidates to Janssen for potential development and commercialisation. In addition to research funding, Jubilant will also receive milestones and royalties should Janssen successfully progress the assets into clinical development and commercialisation.
"We are pleased to announce the expansion of the Janssen- Jubilant collaboration and look forward to discovering Novel Chemical Entities (NCE's) that address the unmet medical needs in these important disease areas", said Dr Subir K Basak, President, Jubilant Biosys (Global Drug Discovery Services)". Over the past several years, we have been strengthening our disease franchises from a scientific perspective, and this collaboration serves as a validation of those efforts. We look forward to a long, and mutually beneficial, partnership."
FDA, EMA to Discuss Pharmacovigilance and Clinical Safety at DIA’s Annual Meeting
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and European Medicines Agency (EMA) will discuss common objectives and challenges in pharmacovigilance and clinical safety at DIA’s Annual Meeting from June 15 to 19 in San Diego.
The June 17 session, “FDA-EMA Collaboration in Pharmacovigilance: Common Objectives and Common Challenges,” will focus on joint efforts in drug-specific evaluation, drug development, effective implementation of new pharmacovigilance (medicine safety) tools and addressing common challenges. The session, to be chaired by Peter Richard Arlett, head of pharmacovigilance at EMA, is one of 35 educational sessions at the Annual Meeting focusing on pharmacovigilance and clinical safety.
“Ensuring the safety of medical innovations is a top priority for professionals involved in medical product development,” said DIA Global Chief Executive Barbara Lopez Kunz. “We are bringing the premier voices in industry and regulatory agencies to work closely on this issue in addition to encouraging a stronger patient voice in our education.”
The two agencies jointly announced on Feb. 21 the creation of a new “cluster” for a more systematic and focused exchange of information on the safety of medicines. Clusters are regular meetings among the FDA, EMA and other world drug regulatory agencies on specific topics identified as requiring intensified sharing of information and collaboration. The FDA and EMA have clusters on biosimilars, medicines to treat cancer, orphan medicines, medicines for children and more already in place.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and European Medicines Agency (EMA) will discuss common objectives and challenges in pharmacovigilance and clinical safety at DIA’s Annual Meeting from June 15 to 19 in San Diego.
The June 17 session, “FDA-EMA Collaboration in Pharmacovigilance: Common Objectives and Common Challenges,” will focus on joint efforts in drug-specific evaluation, drug development, effective implementation of new pharmacovigilance (medicine safety) tools and addressing common challenges. The session, to be chaired by Peter Richard Arlett, head of pharmacovigilance at EMA, is one of 35 educational sessions at the Annual Meeting focusing on pharmacovigilance and clinical safety.
“Ensuring the safety of medical innovations is a top priority for professionals involved in medical product development,” said DIA Global Chief Executive Barbara Lopez Kunz. “We are bringing the premier voices in industry and regulatory agencies to work closely on this issue in addition to encouraging a stronger patient voice in our education.”
The two agencies jointly announced on Feb. 21 the creation of a new “cluster” for a more systematic and focused exchange of information on the safety of medicines. Clusters are regular meetings among the FDA, EMA and other world drug regulatory agencies on specific topics identified as requiring intensified sharing of information and collaboration. The FDA and EMA have clusters on biosimilars, medicines to treat cancer, orphan medicines, medicines for children and more already in place.
Jubilant Sort out FDA Issue with Montreal Plant
Jubilant Life Sciences Ltd, an integrated Pharmaceuticals and Life Sciences Company announced has received a communication from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), classifying its pharmaceutical manufacturing facility at Montreal, Canada as ‘Acceptable’. This resolves all issues raised by the FDA on the facility in February 2013 and subsequent communications.
The development follows completionof FDA’s review of the Company’s responses post the February letter and the subsequent re-inspection conducted at Jubilant’s Montreal facility in September, 2013. This development successfully resolves the FDA issues at Montreal facility.
Jubilant Life Sciences Ltd, an integrated Pharmaceuticals and Life Sciences Company announced has received a communication from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), classifying its pharmaceutical manufacturing facility at Montreal, Canada as ‘Acceptable’. This resolves all issues raised by the FDA on the facility in February 2013 and subsequent communications.
The development follows completionof FDA’s review of the Company’s responses post the February letter and the subsequent re-inspection conducted at Jubilant’s Montreal facility in September, 2013. This development successfully resolves the FDA issues at Montreal facility.
Phosphagenics Appoints Three New Non-executive Directors
Australian drug delivery technology company Phosphagenics Limited has appointed biotech industry veterans Lawrence Gozlan, Nathan Drona and Dr Geert Cauwenbergh as non-executive directors, with Gozlan assuming the role of Chairman of the Board on an interim basis.
Stuart James, Dr Sandra Webb, Don Clarke and Jonathan Addison have retired from the Board. The Company thanks them for their contributions over many years.
Australian drug delivery technology company Phosphagenics Limited has appointed biotech industry veterans Lawrence Gozlan, Nathan Drona and Dr Geert Cauwenbergh as non-executive directors, with Gozlan assuming the role of Chairman of the Board on an interim basis.
Stuart James, Dr Sandra Webb, Don Clarke and Jonathan Addison have retired from the Board. The Company thanks them for their contributions over many years.
SCHOTT to Track Pharmaceutical Tubing
SCHOTT is supporting the pharmaceutical industry in its efforts to track the tubing used to produce pharmaceutical packaging made of glass. The company issued its 1 millionth certificate for its FIOLAX glass tubing just recently. These certificates help to identify the products shipped as tubing that are subsequently processed into pharmaceutical packaging, vials or syringes, for example. These documents contain more detailed information on the dimensional quality and the quality of the glass. This enables pharmaceutical companies to track their packaging all the way back to the raw material “glass tubing,” if necessary.
Traceability is currently one of the most pressing issues for the pharmaceutical industry. It is closely related to more stringent requirements for quality and safety in manufacturing, shipping and administering medicines. Packaging is thus an integral part of all safety considerations. SCHOTT became the first company in the industry to allow for all of the pharmaceutical tubing it manufactures to be identified back in 1999. The certificates are applied to the pallet in a clearly visible position and enable customers to inspect incoming shipments more easily because they contain plenty of detailed information. One part of the certificate can be detached and stored for documentation purposes and used to perform subsequent tracking & tracing inside the e-commerce portal.
SCHOTT is supporting the pharmaceutical industry in its efforts to track the tubing used to produce pharmaceutical packaging made of glass. The company issued its 1 millionth certificate for its FIOLAX glass tubing just recently. These certificates help to identify the products shipped as tubing that are subsequently processed into pharmaceutical packaging, vials or syringes, for example. These documents contain more detailed information on the dimensional quality and the quality of the glass. This enables pharmaceutical companies to track their packaging all the way back to the raw material “glass tubing,” if necessary.
Traceability is currently one of the most pressing issues for the pharmaceutical industry. It is closely related to more stringent requirements for quality and safety in manufacturing, shipping and administering medicines. Packaging is thus an integral part of all safety considerations. SCHOTT became the first company in the industry to allow for all of the pharmaceutical tubing it manufactures to be identified back in 1999. The certificates are applied to the pallet in a clearly visible position and enable customers to inspect incoming shipments more easily because they contain plenty of detailed information. One part of the certificate can be detached and stored for documentation purposes and used to perform subsequent tracking & tracing inside the e-commerce portal.
Ghulam Nabi Azad Inaugurates Baxter Global Research Centre at Syngene
Syngene, India's leading contract research organisation and Baxter International Inc, a leading global pharmaceutical company have collaborated to establish the Baxter Global Research Centre at Syngene, in Bengaluru.
The Centre was inaugurated by Ghulam Nabi Azad, the Honorable Minister of Health and Family Welfare, Govt of India, in the presence of U T Khader, Minister of Health & Family Welfare, Govt of Karnataka, S R Patil, Minister of IT, BT & ST, Govt of Karnataka, Keshav Desiraju, Secretary, Dept of Health & Family Welfare, Govt of India and Srivatsa Krishna, Secretary, Dept. of IT, BT & ST, Govt. of Karnataka.
The Baxter Global Research Centre (BGRC) at Syngene, is a part of Baxter’s global strategy of building R & D collaborations with strategic partners. This collaboration will support Baxter in the Research and Development of medical products and devices to serve patients both in India and around the world.
Syngene, India's leading contract research organisation and Baxter International Inc, a leading global pharmaceutical company have collaborated to establish the Baxter Global Research Centre at Syngene, in Bengaluru.
The Centre was inaugurated by Ghulam Nabi Azad, the Honorable Minister of Health and Family Welfare, Govt of India, in the presence of U T Khader, Minister of Health & Family Welfare, Govt of Karnataka, S R Patil, Minister of IT, BT & ST, Govt of Karnataka, Keshav Desiraju, Secretary, Dept of Health & Family Welfare, Govt of India and Srivatsa Krishna, Secretary, Dept. of IT, BT & ST, Govt. of Karnataka.
The Baxter Global Research Centre (BGRC) at Syngene, is a part of Baxter’s global strategy of building R & D collaborations with strategic partners. This collaboration will support Baxter in the Research and Development of medical products and devices to serve patients both in India and around the world.
US FDA, UL EduNeering Extend Partnership
UL EduNeering, a leading provider of compliance and knowledge management solutions, and the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), have extended their Cooperative Research and Development Agreement (CRADA) for five additional years, extending the agreement to 2019. FDA’s CRADA with UL is the only learning technology agreement of its kind between FDA and a private-sector company. This new agreement will expand the learning resources of the Office of Regulatory Affairs’ virtual university, UL EduNeering and FDA originally collaborated and co-developed the ORA-U infrastructure in 1999, to train the agency’s food, drug and medical device investigators. UL EduNeering, part of the Life & Health Division of UL is expanding its services to the Pharmaceutical, Medical Device and Biologics industries in India.
Global production of FDA-regulated products has quadrupled over the last decade and continues to grow. Today, FDA-regulated products originate from more than 150 countries, 130,000 importers and 300,000 foreign facilities. 40 percent of finished drugs come from overseas, and 80 percent of active ingredients manufacturers are located outside the US. Further, half of all medical devices are imported. UL in India is well-positioned to serve the compliance and regulatory needs of the fast-growing life science community. The organization already works with India’s Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) to train inspectors on the ISO 13485 quality management system.
UL EduNeering, a leading provider of compliance and knowledge management solutions, and the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), have extended their Cooperative Research and Development Agreement (CRADA) for five additional years, extending the agreement to 2019. FDA’s CRADA with UL is the only learning technology agreement of its kind between FDA and a private-sector company. This new agreement will expand the learning resources of the Office of Regulatory Affairs’ virtual university, UL EduNeering and FDA originally collaborated and co-developed the ORA-U infrastructure in 1999, to train the agency’s food, drug and medical device investigators. UL EduNeering, part of the Life & Health Division of UL is expanding its services to the Pharmaceutical, Medical Device and Biologics industries in India.
Global production of FDA-regulated products has quadrupled over the last decade and continues to grow. Today, FDA-regulated products originate from more than 150 countries, 130,000 importers and 300,000 foreign facilities. 40 percent of finished drugs come from overseas, and 80 percent of active ingredients manufacturers are located outside the US. Further, half of all medical devices are imported. UL in India is well-positioned to serve the compliance and regulatory needs of the fast-growing life science community. The organization already works with India’s Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) to train inspectors on the ISO 13485 quality management system.
Sun Pharma's Generic Temodar Get US FDA Approval
Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd announced that the US FDA has granted its subsidiary final approval for its Abbreviated New Drug Application (ANDA) to market a generic version of Temodar, Temozolomide Capsules, 5 mg, 20 mg, 100 mg, 140 mg, 180 mg and 250 mg.
Temozolomide Capsules, 5 mg, 20 mg, 100 mg, 140 mg, 180 mg and 250 mg are therapeutic equivalents of Merck Sharp & Dohme Corporation’s Temodar Capsules. These Capsules have annual sales of approximately USD 400 million in the US. In another development, The Board of Directors of Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd announced appointment of Rekha Sethi as an additional independent director.
Rekha Sethi is the Director General of the All India Management Association (AIMA), the apex body for management in India. She took charge of AIMA in June 2008. She is a member of the Indo-Netherlands Joint Working Group on Corporate Governance and Corporate Social Responsibility set up by Ministry of Corporate Affairs, Government of India.
Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd announced that the US FDA has granted its subsidiary final approval for its Abbreviated New Drug Application (ANDA) to market a generic version of Temodar, Temozolomide Capsules, 5 mg, 20 mg, 100 mg, 140 mg, 180 mg and 250 mg.
Temozolomide Capsules, 5 mg, 20 mg, 100 mg, 140 mg, 180 mg and 250 mg are therapeutic equivalents of Merck Sharp & Dohme Corporation’s Temodar Capsules. These Capsules have annual sales of approximately USD 400 million in the US. In another development, The Board of Directors of Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd announced appointment of Rekha Sethi as an additional independent director.
Rekha Sethi is the Director General of the All India Management Association (AIMA), the apex body for management in India. She took charge of AIMA in June 2008. She is a member of the Indo-Netherlands Joint Working Group on Corporate Governance and Corporate Social Responsibility set up by Ministry of Corporate Affairs, Government of India.
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