India’s pharmaceutical industry is facing potential tariffs imposed by President Trump, which could significantly impact exports, particularly to the US. High export dependence and questionable quality standards underscore the need for reform and improved regulation to maintain the industry’s reputation and market position.
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Ankura Hospitals secures Rs 165 cr funding from ADB
Ankura Hospitals has secured Rs 165 crore in funding from the Asian Development Bank. This strategic investment will enhance its pediatric, maternity, and gynecology services, enabling the Hyderabad-based chain to expand its facilities and strengthen its presence in key cities across India.
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KKR in talks to acquire US dental labs chain Leixir
Global investment firm KKR is in talks to acquire Leixir Dental Laboratory Group from Comvest Investment Partners at a valuation of $200-$250 million. Leixir, founded in 2013, offers various dental solutions and operates facilities in the US and India. Deloitte is advising on the sale process.
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From AI to Telemedicine: Digital skills every healthcare professional should learn
Digital skills are crucial for healthcare professionals, with growing fields like telemedicine, AI-driven diagnostics, and data analytics. Continuous learning in electronic health records, cybersecurity, and emerging technologies like 3D printing and robotics is vital for those seeking to stay relevant and succeed in the evolving healthcare landscape.
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Eli Lilly working on a heart drug that may benefit Indians: CEO David Ricks
Eli Lilly is developing a groundbreaking drug, lepodisiran, to combat high LPA cholesterol levels prevalent in South Asians, potentially reducing it by 85%-90%. With heart disease cases surging in India, this phase 3 trial drug promises significant cardiovascular benefits, requiring only once-a-year administration. It's crucial, given the rising heart...
47 drugs found 'not of standard quality' in February
The Central Drugs Laboratories identified 47 drug samples as 'not of standard quality' in February, while State Drugs Testing Laboratories found 56 similar samples. One drug from West Bengal was found spurious and made by an unauthorized manufacturer. Regular action is taken to remove such drugs from the market.
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Essential medicines will cost you a bit more from April 1
Beginning April 1, prices for essential drugs like painkillers, antibiotics, and anti-diabetic medicines will rise by 1.74%. The increase is based on the change in the wholesale price index. The pharmaceutical industry is pushing for higher price hikes to counterbalance increased input costs over recent years.
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Kedaara, TA Associates vie for minority stake in Sagent Pharma
Kedaara Capital and TA Associates are in talks to acquire a significant minority stake in Sagent Pharma, valued at $500-600 million. Investment amounts are estimated between $150-200 million. Originally acquired by Ravi Penmetsa's Ellimist Singapore, Sagent specializes in generic injectables for the US market.
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Donor aid cuts may undo years of progress in combating HIV: Study
US President Trump's decision to suspend USAID programmes and fund cuts by other countries could lead to 10.8 million new HIV infections and 2.9 million HIV-related deaths by 2030 in low-and-middle-income countries. Major donor funding cuts may reverse decades of progress against HIV/AIDS, especially in sub-Saharan Africa and among vulnerable populations.
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Delhi HC asks Natco Pharma to pause Risdiplam launch amid patent dispute
The Delhi High Court has ordered Natco Pharma to maintain status quo on the launch of Risdiplam until April 2. Roche, which holds the patent for the drug, sought an injunction to prevent Natco from manufacturing it in India. The court highlighted the public interest in making the drug affordable.
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Open to tie-ups in India for selling Mounjaro: Eli Lilly CEO David Ricks
Eli Lilly is exploring partnerships with Indian pharma firms to market its anti-diabetes and weight loss drug Mounjaro, recently launched in India. Priced significantly lower than in the US, Mounjaro's introduction anticipates strong demand in the country with over 100 million obese and diabetic individuals.
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Eli Lilly's goal is to reach everyone who needs obesity care: Global CEO David Ricks
Eli Lilly's CEO David Ricks discusses the launch of diabetes and anti-obesity drugs Mounjaro and Zepbound, focusing on expanding access in emerging markets. He highlights new weight-loss drugs and emphasizes the importance of partnerships, including with Indian tech companies and governments, for tackling chronic diseases and improving public health...
India develops its first indigenous MRI machine, to reduce treatment costs
India has developed its first indigenous MRI machine to be installed at AIIMS Delhi by October for trials, reducing dependency on imports by 80-85%. An MoU was signed with SAMEER for the installation. The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology is spearheading this technological advancement aimed at achieving self-reliance in medical technology.
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Meghalaya’s Gnanamma Healthcare Centre transitions to near net-zero electricity health facility
Gnanamma Healthcare Centre in Guwahati celebrates its transition to a near net-zero electricity facility with a new 6.05kW solar plant and battery energy storage. This upgrade ensures reliable power, especially for critical services like vaccine storage and emergency care, reducing carbon emissions and setting an example for sustainable healthcare...
Delhi HC rejects Roche's plea to block Natco Pharma on Risdiplam patent
The Delhi High Court denied Roche's request to temporarily restrain Natco Pharma from producing its spinal muscular atrophy drug, citing public interest and high prices. Natco is required to maintain detailed financial records and may owe damages if Roche ultimately wins the case.
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Heartening news: Device made in India to help transplant patients
India plans to develop cost-effective left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) to aid end-stage heart failure patients while they wait for donor hearts. With an estimated 50,000 patients needing heart transplants annually but a severe shortage of donor hearts, indigenously made LVADs could reduce costs and increase foreign medical visitors. Development...
₹14,000 per month weight-loss shot is here to cash in on India’s obesity crisis
India's obesity crisis is intensifying, with big pharma companies like Eli Lilly and Novo Nordisk competing to introduce weight-loss drugs in the market. The economic impact is enormous, and local generics are preparing to offer more affordable alternatives to combat this growing health issue.
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Bharat Biotech invests Rs 600 cr to expand into cell, gene therapies
As per Bharat Biotech, the facility will tackle scientific challenges such as targeted gene expression, immune system modulation, and long-term cell survival. Work will span from boosting immune responses against cancer to ensuring that therapeutic proteins are safely accepted in patients with genetic diseases like haemophilia.
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Entero Healthcare launches HealthEdge programme for chemists
Entero Healthcare Solutions launched the 'HealthEdge' program to modernise retail pharmacies and improve efficiency for over 86,000 chemists. The company also acquired the Aayu Chemist app and Medcords platform, aimed at enhancing profits and customer engagement. Entero reported significant revenue and profit growth in FY 2025 Q3.
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Eli Lilly launches weight-loss drug Mounjaro in India after drug regulator approval
Eli Lilly has launched its diabetes and weight-loss drug Mounjaro in India after receiving regulatory approval. With rising obesity and diabetes rates, India presents a significant market opportunity for the U.S.-based company. Mounjaro is already marketed in the UK and Europe for both conditions and under the name Zepbound for obesity in the U.S.
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India has a chance to lead in health space amid Global North's funding cuts: Gates Foundation CEO Mark Suzman
Mark Suzman, CEO of the Gates Foundation, sees the current global funding challenges as an opportunity for India to lead, particularly in health and development. Amid funding cuts from the US, UK, and France, Suzman remains optimistic about mobilizing resources for life-saving initiatives, highlighting India's cost-effective innovations.
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Impose safeguard duties on medical devices: AiMeD
The Association of Indian Medical Device Industry (AiMeD) has requested the government to impose safeguard duties on 12 medical device categories to shield domestic manufacturers from cheap imports. AiMeD highlighted a significant increase in imports, notably in syringes and needles, primarily from China, the US, and Singapore.
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AI, teleconsultation, modern tech being used in treatment, diagnosis: Nadda
Health Minister JP Nadda emphasized the government's commitment to enhancing healthcare through policies incorporating AI for TB detection, modern cancer treatments, and mental health teleconsultation. The goal is to increase health expenditure to 2.5% of GDP, currently at 1.84%, showcasing substantial achievements in improving maternal and child mortality...
Health expenditure now at 1.84 pc of GDP, moving steadily to 2.5 pc: JP Nadda
Union Health Minister JP Nadda stated that the Indian government’s health expenditure has reached 1.84% of GDP, moving towards the 2.5% target by 2025. From 2013-14's Rs 38,000 crore, current health allocations are nearly Rs 1 lakh crore. The National Health Policy 2017 aims to increase healthcare funding, with 1.
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Zydus Lifesciences gets USFDA nod to produce prostate cancer treatment drug
Zydus Lifesciences Ltd has received final approval from the USFDA to manufacture 60 mg Apalutamide tablets for prostate cancer treatment. These tablets will be produced at their Ahmedabad facility. Apalutamide, an androgen receptor inhibitor, is intended for metastatic castration-sensitive prostate cancer and had annual sales of USD 1,099.8 million...
India weighs lower tariffs for US medical devices amid trade talks
The Indian government is considering lowering tariffs on US medical devices to mitigate potential US tariff threats on Indian exports. While this aims to ease trade tensions, industry experts express concerns about the impact on India's self-reliance. Stakeholders suggest reciprocal market access as Indian exporters face high regulatory barriers in...
Gene therapy for blood cancer shows 73 per cent response rate in clinical trials
Researchers, including those from the Indian Institute of Technology-Bombay and Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai, said in low and middle-income countries, patients in whom 'B-cell' tumours continue to grow following a period of remission (relapse), or do not respond to treatment (refractory), suffer from poor outcomes due to an absence of effective therapies.
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AIIMS critically short of staff amid land & budgetary issues
AIIMS in New Delhi is experiencing severe staff shortages, with hundreds of vacant posts for doctors and faculty members. A parliamentary committee has urged the health ministry to offer competitive compensation and prioritize the filling of these positions. Additionally, the slow progress of AIIMS' expansion projects has been criticized.
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Sun Pharma, Zydus recall products in US: USFDA report
Sun Pharma and Zydus Pharmaceuticals are recalling products in the US market due to manufacturing issues, according to the USFDA. Sun Pharma is recalling Morphine Sulfate tablets for failed dissolution specifications, while Zydus is recalling Nelarabine Injection for failed impurities/degradation specifications.
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Skin cream, nasal spray, and... blindness? AIIMS doctors warn steroids misuse could trigger silent vision loss
Frequent use of steroid-based treatments for respiratory issues, allergies, and skin conditions can heighten the risk of glaucoma. Experts at AIIMS stress the importance of regular eye check-ups for early detection. Lifelong care and awareness programs at the primary care level are essential for preserving vision.
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Struggling with dry eyes? Haldi's power-packed compound might be the relief you need
A study by AIIMS reveals that bio-enhanced curcumin, found in turmeric (haldi), effectively treats mild to moderate dry eye disease by improving tear stability and reducing inflammation. The clinical trial showed significant improvements in tear metrics and symptoms, suggesting a natural, side-effect-free alternative treatment.
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China’s biotech is redrawing the global pharma map; what India can learn
American biggies are joining hands with Chinese companies. AbbVie signed a deal with Simcere Zaiming for a multiple myeloma treatment. AstraZeneca signed a deal with CSPC Pharma for a cardiac treatment, while Merck signed a $2 billion deal with Hansoh Pharma. Indian drugmakers are also collaborating with Chinese rivals. Mankind Pharma partnered with...
Parliamentary panel flags brain drain from health dept, delay in filling vacancies in research posts
A parliamentary committee has raised concerns about unoccupied posts of scientists in the Department of Health Research and recommended stopping contractual appointments to prevent brain drain. The panel emphasized enhancing higher education and research infrastructure, improving standards of living, and offering competitive pay to retain Indian professionals.
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Parl panel on health: Cos scared to set up units due to CDSCO approach
The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Health and Family Welfare criticized the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) for delays and lack of transparency in the drug licensing process. They recommended streamlining the system and establishing an independent advisory board to improve India's medical device industry.
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Dr. Reddy’s recalls mislabelled Levetiracetam injection in the US; patients likely to experience 'adverse' events
Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories is recalling a batch of Levetiracetam injection bags in the U.S. due to incorrect labeling, which could result in patients receiving a double dose. The error poses serious health risks, including hypersensitivity, liver injury, and respiratory depression. The mislabeled batch was distributed nationwide between November 4 and...
Indian generic drugs linked to deaths in US? Trade group slams study blaming desi pharma
A study found Indian generics sold in the US between 2009-2018 linked to a 54% higher risk of serious side effects compared to domestic drugs. The findings have drawn criticism from the Indian Pharmaceutical Alliance, which disputes the study’s methodology and its implications on quality and efficacy.
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Global buyout funds line up for AGS Health
Global buyout funds are eyeing AGS Health, valuing the IT firm at around $1 billion. EQT Partners, the current owner, plans to launch the sale early next year. AGS Health, acquired by EQT in 2019 for $320 million, provides RCM services with 12,000 employees and significant revenue. Interest in healthcare BPOs is rising among private equity firms.
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New affordable diabetes drug Empagliflozin launched in India
Several domestic drug makers, including Mankind Pharma, have launched the diabetes drug Empagliflozin at significantly reduced prices following the expiration of Boehringer Ingelheim’s patent. Mankind Pharma’s version is priced at Rs 5.50 per tablet, a reduction of 90%. This move is expected to improve access to affordable diabetes treatment in India.
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Zydus eyes major stake in French medtech Amplitude for Rs 2,446 crore
India's Zydus Lifesciences is set to acquire an 85.6% stake in France's Amplitude Surgical for nearly $280 million to expand in the global medical devices market. The acquisition, at a premium of nearly 81% to Amplitude's last close, aims to leverage growth opportunities in surgical technologies for lower-limb orthopedics and expand internationally.
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India, vaccine superpower; manufactures 60% of global supply: ICMR former chief
India's Thiruvananthapuram has become a vaccine superpower, producing 60 per cent of the world's vaccines, with significant contributions from Pune. India's efficient vaccine development and distribution, spearheaded by government-supported research and a National Task Force, have positioned the country as a leader in global health. This effort notably...
Zydus Lifesciences to buy 86% stake in French medical devices maker
India's Zydus Lifesciences is set to acquire an 85.6% stake in France's Amplitude Surgical for nearly $280 million to expand in the global medical devices market. The acquisition, at a premium of nearly 81% to Amplitude's last close, aims to leverage growth opportunities in surgical technologies for lower-limb orthopedics and expand internationally.
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ET Q&A: All our products are legitimate, sold under valid prescriptions, says Aveo Pharmaceuticals MD
Aveo Pharmaceuticals asserts that a stop-production notice was issued due to non-compliance with GMP standards, not for exporting opioid-based drugs. They have taken corrective measures and are working with authorities, aiming to resume operations soon, as many livelihoods depend on it.
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India's Syngene International acquires first US biologics facility for $36.5 million
India's Syngene International has agreed to acquire its first biologics facility in the U.S. from Emergent Manufacturing for $36.5 million. This move aims to expand Syngene's capabilities in the Northeast U.S. and reduce dependence on China, with the facility expected to be operational by mid-2025.
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Zydus Lifesciences gets USFDA nod to market generic antifungal shampoo
Zydus Lifesciences received approval from the USFDA to market Ketoconazole Shampoo, an antifungal medication, in the US. This approval is for a generic version targeting dandruff and various fungal infections. The medication will be produced at Zydus's manufacturing site in Ahmedabad. As of January 2025, its annual US sales were valued at USD 68.89...
Sun Pharmaceuticals to acquire Checkpoint Therapeutics for $355 mn
Sun Pharmaceuticals will acquire Checkpoint Therapeutics for $355 million, bringing the FDA-approved anti-PD-L1 treatment for advanced cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma, UNLOXCYT, to a broader market. The acquisition enhances Sun Pharma's oncology portfolio and aims to provide a new treatment option for cSCC patients. Completion is expected by the...
Keep tobacco and alcohol ads and their proxies off IPL, Health ministry tells cricket board
The health ministry has urged the IPL and cricket board to ban all tobacco and alcohol advertising at matches and related events, and on national TV broadcasts. The letter emphasizes the crucial role of sports in promoting public health, noting that tobacco and alcohol are major risk factors for non-communicable diseases, which account for over 70%...
USFDA pulls up Granules India for lapses in maintaining storage facilities, equipment at Telangana plant
The USFDA has issued a warning to Granules India for contamination and improper equipment maintenance at its Telangana facility. Inspectors found significant contamination, bird droppings, and torn CGMP records during their visit. The agency demands prompt corrective actions from the company to rectify these violations, emphasizing the need for effective...
Protecting your heart and managing diabetes: The power of a holistic lifestyle
Adopting a holistic lifestyle can significantly improve heart health and manage diabetes. Key strategies include a balanced diet, regular physical activity, stress management, maintaining healthy weight, and regular health check-ups. These habits are crucial for reducing the risk of heart disease and improving overall well-being.
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Indian Pharmaceutical Alliance calls for zero import duty on US drugs to boost local industry
The Indian Pharmaceutical Alliance (IPA) has proposed reducing the import duty on pharma products from the US to zero. Currently, India imposes a 10% tariff on US drugs, but the US does not charge any import duty on Indian drugs. This suggestion aims to support the Indian pharma industry by lowering costs.
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Registration for Ayushman Bharat to start after March 8: Delhi health minister
Delhi Health Minister Pankaj Singh announced that the registration for the Ayushman Bharat scheme in the national capital will begin after March 8. He assured that significant improvements in healthcare infrastructure and transparency in hospital operations would be implemented within 100 days, emphasising a focus on economically weaker sections and...
Apollo Health picks up controlling stake in Lucknow-based Care Diagnostics
Apollo Health & Lifestyle Limited has obtained a significant controlling stake in Care Diagnostics through an all-cash deal. This strategic partnership will position Care Diagnostics to expand its healthcare testing services more widely across Uttar Pradesh, with plans to achieve full acquisition eventually.
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AstraZeneca gets nod to import, sell hyperkalaemia treatment drug in India
AstraZeneca Pharma India Ltd has received approval from India's drug regulator to import and sell sodium zirconium cyclosilicate powder for treating hyperkalaemia in adults. This clearance enables the launch of Lokelma in India, contingent on obtaining related statutory approvals.
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Lasik surgery in 10 seconds? This AI-powered tech may challenge the traditional course of treatment for eye care
A city-based private eye hospital has introduced a breakthrough in LASIK surgery, achieving treatment time under 10 seconds per eye using AI technology. This innovation enhances accuracy and offers personalized treatment plans, consistently achieving a 99% to 100% success rate, designed to quickly and effectively correct vision for suitable patients.
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Clinical research entities asked to register by April 1
India's drug regulatory authority mandates all clinical research organisations to register through the SUGAM portal by April 1 to enhance transparency and accountability in the industry. This move aims to hasten clinical trials and create a comprehensive database of clinical research organisations, with India currently contributing just 3-4% to global...
Aurobindo unit terminates pact with Singapore firm to develop pentavalent vaccine
Aurobindo Pharma has terminated a license agreement through its subsidiary Auro Vaccines with Hilleman Laboratories for developing a pentavalent vaccine for children. The company asserted that this step would not materially affect its financial situation, as Auro Vaccines is not a crucial subsidiary. Despite this, Aurobindo Pharma shares rose 3.83%...
India set to introduce list of OTC drugs this month
India is set to receive a list of drugs transitioning to over-the-counter (OTC) status from prescription-only status soon. The committee responsible is finalizing the report to ensure public health is not at risk, with the report to be submitted to the Drugs Technical Authority Board shortly.
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Senores Pharma to acquire 14 ANDAs from Dr Reddy's Laboratories
Senores Pharmaceuticals of Gujarat has signed an agreement to acquire 14 Abbreviated New Drug Applications from Dr Reddy's Laboratories. The acquisition, funded through IPO proceeds, includes 13 USFDA-approved ANDAs. This expands Senores' product offerings in the US and other regulated markets, addressing an opportunity worth USD 421 million.
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Zydus to develop combination vaccine for shigellosis and typhoid
Zydus Lifesciences is set to develop a combination vaccine against shigellosis and typhoid with the Gates Foundation's support. The vaccine aims to protect children under five in regions where both diseases are prevalent. Early-stage development and studies are scheduled to begin in March 2025. Collaboration with partners leverages Zydus' expertise...
Diabetes and obesity: The dangerous duo you need to break up with
World Obesity Day, observed on March 4th, emphasizes the dangers of the combined effects of diabetes and obesity, termed 'diabesity.' This harmful partnership increases the risk of severe health issues like heart disease, kidney damage, and nerve pain. The observance calls for lifestyle changes and medical interventions to manage and break free from...
AstraZeneca Pharma India gets CDSCO approval to import, sell cancer treatment medicine
AstraZeneca Pharma India has received approval from CDSCO to import and distribute the cancer treatment drug Durvalumab solutions. This approval allows the marketing of Durvalumab in combination with Tremelimumab for treating unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma in India, pending related statutory approvals.
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Sun Pharma aims to launch anti-obesity and type 2 diabetes drug Utreglutide in five years: Dilip Shanghvi
Sun Pharmaceutical, India's largest drugmaker by revenue, plans to launch its experimental anti-obesity and type 2 diabetes drug Utreglutide in the next four to five years, said Managing Director Dilip Shanghvi. The drug is a GLP-1 receptor agonist and has shown promising results in early trials. Sun Pharma is focusing on launching the drug in India...
Glenmark acquires Acetylcysteine injection, launches in US market
Glenmark Pharmaceuticals Ltd acquired the generic version of Acetylcysteine injection from Aspen Pharma USA Inc and launched it in the US market. The injection is used to treat acetaminophen overdose and is expected to have the same therapeutic effect as the listed drug Acetadote Injection.
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Glenmark recalls 15 lakh bottles of ADHD medication in US: USFDA
Glenmark Pharmaceuticals is recalling around 14.76 lakh bottles of Atomoxetine Capsules due to detected CGMP deviations and the presence of N-Nitroso Atomoxetine impurity above FDA recommended limits. The recall is classified as Class II, indicating potential temporary or medically reversible adverse health consequences.
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Reciprocal tariffs may make Indian generic drugs costlier in US: Pharma giants on Trump stance
Indian pharmaceutical industry leaders indicate that proposed US tariffs on pharmaceutical exports may lead to increased drug costs and potential shortages in the US. They argue that the tariffs might be absorbed by consumers and stress the significant cost savings that affordable Indian generics provide to the US healthcare system.
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Our healthcare, education systems being plagued by commodification and commercialisation: Dhankhar
Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar emphasized that healthcare and education should not be driven by commodification and commercialisation. Speaking at KPB Hinduja College in Mumbai, he highlighted the importance of Sanatan in India's culture for its inclusivity and its role in fostering equality through education.
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