Shasun Pharma in licensing pact with Swiss-based Debiopharm

To use latter's technology for manufacturing drug for treatment of Alzheimer's and commercialise it

Shasun Pharmaceuticals today said it has entered into a licensing agreement with Switzerland-based Debiopharm for the manufacturing and commercialisation of Huperzine-A, a drug used in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease.

As per the agreement, Shasun Pharmaceuticals would be able to use the Debiopharm technology for manufacturing synthetic Huperzine-A and commercialise it, Shasun Pharmaceuticals said in a filing to the BSE.

"It underlines our commitment to delivering cutting-edge science in all our processes through our global research and development network," Shasun Pharmaceuticals President Michel Spagnol said.

Huperzine-A is a potent and reversible acetylcholinesterase inhibitor and clinical studies have shown a significant improvement in memory deficit and cognitive performance in patients with Alzheimer's disease.

Commenting on the development Debiopharm Group President Mauvernay said: "We are excited to have the opportunity to add value to this technology while contributing to improve people's quality of life."

Shares of Shasun Pharmaceuticals were trading at Rs 68.35 on the BSE in the afternoon trade, up 4.51 per cent from its previous close.