Natco launches lung cancer drug

Hyderabad, Nov 27: Hyderabad-based NATCO Pharma Limited has announced the launch of Pemetrexed under the brand name Pemnat-a 20 ml vial injection, useful in the treatment of locally advanced or malignant non-small cell lung cancer.

'NATCO is making available Permnat at an MRP of Rs 25,000 per vial, as against the imported medicine costing around Rs 79,000.

Incidentally, this would be the first launch of Pemetrexed generic version in the world. Being a pre-1995 invention, NATCO does not expect any litigation over the generic launch', the company said in a release here today.

Prescribed after prior chemotherapy, the availability of the new drug enhances treatment options for non-small cell lung cancer.

'Also useful in the treatment of malignant pleural mesothelioma, in patients where curative surgery cannot be performed, Pemetrexed is credited with improved suirvival rates', the release said.

Mesothelioma is a form of cancer where malignant cells develop in the mesothelium, a protective lining that covers body's internal organs.

UNI