Cipla launches biosimilar 'Etacept' for rheumatic disorders

Drug major Cipla today said it has launched biosimilar of Etanercept under the brand name 'Etacept' used for treatment of rheumatic disorders in India.

"Formed through a partnership alliance, Etacept is manufactured by a China-based Shanghai CP Guojian Pharmaceutical Co Ltd, which will be marketed by Cipla in India," the company said in a statement.

The introduction of Etacept signals Cipla's entry into the biologic segment offering an option to the patients suffering from rheumatic disorders at a lower cost, it added.

Commenting on the development, Cipla Medical Director Jaideep Gogtay said: "We believe that introducing Etacept at a lower cost (30% lesser as compared to the innovator) will enable access of this drug to a greater number of patients in India."

Biosimilar is a biological medicine that is similar to another biological medicine that has already been authorised for use.

Rheumatic disorders are chronic inflammatory disorders affecting the joints, characterised by pain, redness, swelling and loss of function in several joints. It can lead to joint damage and deformities, Cipla said.

Biologics like Etanercept play a significant role in controlling the disease and can make a difference in the lives of these patients, it added.

"Etacept (Etanercept) is approved in the management of rheumatic disorders like Rheumatoid Arthritis, Ankylosing spondylitis, Juvenile Idiopathic Rheumatoid Arthritis and Psoriatic Arthritis," Cipla said.

The drug is available across the country at Rs 6,150 and the recommended dose for adults is 25 mg twice weekly by subcutaneous (under the skin) injection, it added.

Cipla has over 34 manufacturing facilities across India, and manufactures over 2,000 products in 65 therapeutic categories.

Shares of Cipla were today trading at Rs 400.75 per scrip on BSE, up 0.21% from its previous close.