Dr Reddy's launches generic version of Daraprim tablets in the US

Dr Reddy's Laboratories on Friday said it has launched Pyrimethamine tablets, used for treating parasitic disease toxoplasmosis, in the US market.

The company's product is the only generic version of Daraprim tablet which has been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (USFDA).

"Our team's relentless pursuit of this difficult-to-procure reference drug and its active pharmaceutical ingredients, in addition to recent actions from the USFDA, will benefit patients by providing a more affordable alternative to the brand," Dr Reddy's Labs North America Generics CEO Marc Kikuchi said in a statement.

The company is offering this product at a substantial discount compared with the current brand price, he added.

Pyrimethamine is indicated for the treatment of toxoplasmosis when used conjointly with a sulfonamide, since synergism exists with this combination.

Toxoplasmosis is a disease caused by toxoplasma gondii parasite. The infection may be caused by eating undercooked, contaminated meat or drinking contaminated water. Besides, the parasite may be ingested through contact with infected cat feces.

As per IQVIA Health, the Daraprim brand had sales of around USD 10 million for the 12 months ended January 2020.

Dr Reddy's shares were trading 10.28 per cent up at Rs 2,892.40 apiece on the BSE.