The Hindu : Zydus to launch new drug

Online edition of India's National Newspaper
Wednesday, Mar 17, 2004

Business

Business

Zydus to launch new drug

NEW DELHI, MARCH 16. Zydus Cadila Healthcare is all set to launch its version of Tadalafil, an erectile dysfunction (ED) drug. Eli Lilly is the original patent-holder for this drug, which it markets under the brand name Cialis.

Tadalafil is said to be the next generation of sildenafil citrate, better known by its brand name Viagra — a drug from the Pfizer stable.

Eli Lilly had sought an exclusive marketing right from the Government for this drug. But even as a decision is pending on the issue, local versions have flooded the market from Ajanta Pharma, Richie Laboratories and Ranbaxy.

Recently, Ranbaxy Laboratories Ltd (RLL) announced the launch of its brand Forzest, the most recently approved prescription medicine for the treatment of erectile dysfunction in men.

At present, the available oral specific medication for management of ED is Sildenafil with a Rs. 70-crore market in the country. Forzest has an advantage over Sildenafil in terms of longer therapeutic window as it acts faster and more importantly can be taken any time up to 36 hours in advance, according to the city-based drugmaker. UNI

UNI

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