Strides Pharma ties-up with Bangladesh's Incepta to launch long-acting contraceptive in Africa

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26 Aug, 2025 12:21

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Strides Pharma Science Ltd. has partnered with Bangladesh-based Incepta Pharmaceuticals to launch the world’s first World Health Organization (WHO)-prequalified generic version of subcutaneous depot medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA-SC), a long-acting contraceptive, in Africa.

The product, branded as Medogen SubQ, is a three-month injectable contraceptive that can be administered by healthcare workers or self-injected after training. It offers a discreet and convenient option for women, particularly in underserved regions, and is expected to significantly improve access to modern contraception across low- and middle-income countries.

The WHO prequalification of the product, developed by Incepta with support from the Children’s Investment Fund Foundation (CIFF) and the Gates Foundation, breaks the single-source supply chain for DMPA-SC, enabling health systems to procure the drug at more affordable prices.

“By bringing the WHO-prequalified product to Africa, we aim to expand choice and access for women, enabling them to take greater control of their reproductive health,” said Aditya Kumar, Executive Director, Business Development at Strides.
The partnership strengthens Strides’ women’s health portfolio in Africa, which already includes brands like Vitafer and L-Gest. The company said the move aligns with its “in Africa for Africa” strategy and its focus on impactful global collaborations.

Incepta’s Chairman and Managing Director Abdul Muktadir said the WHO prequalification underscores the company’s commitment to public health and global access to essential medicines.

With over 250 million women worldwide lacking access to modern contraception, the availability of a WHO-approved generic DMPA-SC is seen as a critical step in addressing unmet reproductive health needs.

Strides operates in over 100 countries and focuses on complex generics. Its manufacturing footprint spans India, Italy, Kenya, and the U.S.