Cipla's low-cost HIV drug to make big waves globally

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Cipla 's drug Viraday for the treatment of HIV is set to make big waves globally. Viraday is the only low cost version of three highly priced HIV drugs, reports CNBC-TV18.

However, Cipla Chairman Dr Yusuf Hamied says while Viraday will help  HIV patients, going forward, such combinations may not be available due to the patent regime.

"This is the first line new generation HIV, which is just 1 tablet a day for adults. We brought this out because all the three components are pre-'95 drugs," said Yusuf Hamied, Chairman, Cipla.

And Wockhardt Chairman Habil Khorakiwala emphasised that in the US and Europe, HIV numbers have fallen and similar disease management programs should be followed in India.

"There is actually regression taking place. People lead 10-15-20 years normal life. I think it is possible in India to do the same," said Habil Khorakiwala, Chairman, Wockhardt.