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

Prescribed after prior chemotherapy, the availability of Pemnat enhances the treatment options for non-smal 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 survival rates.

Mesothelioma is a form of cancer where malignant cells develop in the mesothelium (a protective lining that covers body's internal organs). Continuing with its stated objective of providing qualitative medicare at affordable prices, NATCO is making available Pemnat at an MRP of Rs. 25,500 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.

Having already achieved leadership position from among the Indian companies in the oncology segment, NATCO expects to further improve its revenues with this launch.  

Sourced From: NATCO Pharma Limited