Indian pharma companies grow beyond generics

The country's pharma industry is finally coming of age. After years of working on copy-cat (generic) versions of drugs innovated by global pharma companies, India's first originally researched molecule (drugs from new chemical entity, NCE) is expected to hit the market by 2010-2011. Leading companies who are developing new molecules include Ranbaxy, Glenmark and Dr Reddy's. Over last couple of years, Indian pharmaceutical companies have stepped up their R&D spends, following a patent product regime. At present, nearly 10-12 companies have molecules under various stages of development.

 

"India has made inroads in the global pharma environment through innovation and Indian R&D has proved its capabilities in becoming a dominant force in the global generics industry. This has been demonstrated by various out-licensing deals like the four done by Glenmark with Forest, Teijin, Merck & Eli Lilly; as well as the other collaborative agreements made with global players.

 

One of the key strategies that can work to deliver success in NCE research for India companies is a project-based approach in partnering with more experienced players. Also, huge potential of therapeutic categories worldover can provide a great opportunity for pharma companies engaged in original research.

 

Dr Reddy's is the first Indian company to take a molecule - DRF2593 (Balaglitazone) to Phase III clinical trials. "Trials for safety and efficacy of Balaglitazone, as an oral anti-diabetic drug, are progressing well. It could take anything from 3-4 years for commercializing the molecule