Allergan sets-up Pharma R&D centre in India

Bangalore, Aug 8 (UNI) US-based pharma major Allergan today announced its foray into India by opening of its Pharmaceutical Development Centre in the city.

Speaking to newsmen here Company Executive Vice President Scott M Whitcup said the centre would focus on implementing global pharmaceutical research and development projects that the company conducted in India.

The centre would initially focus on therapies in areas such as inflammatory and infective conditions of the eye including for back of the eye conditions, movement disorders and urological indications.

Replying to a question he said the company would spend three to five millions dollars in India in the next few years to spread its presence.

Company Head in India, Dr Raman Shetty, who was also present, said the centre would allow close scientific collaboration with leading researchers and medical professionals in India. "Our goal is to develop new and innovative treatments that will benefit patients in India and rest of the world," he added.

He said the center would have a staff size of 15 clinical research and Data Management personnel and was expected to double the size within two years. The centre would be a part of Allergan's Europe and Asia R and D organisation which employed 125 people, he added.

UNI