Kee Biogenetics, a subsidiary of Kee Pharma, through its tie-up with Heber Biotec (Cuba), is set to launch recombinant human interfon ( 2b under the brand name Realfa-2B. The product will be priced at Rs 950 per shot.
The drug is said to be an effective therapy for various forms of leukaemia and chronic hepatitis B and C. It is also known to be a cure for blood cancer.
The launch marks the company's entry into the oncology and gastroenterology segments. This will be the company's second major launch after the success of recombinant streptokinase Cardiosterp.
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The launch is of significance since the number of Indians dying of hepatitis B and C has been increasing rapidly every year. According to statistics provided by Action for Banishing Communicable Diseases (ABCD), an NGO, two and a half lakh Indians die from Hepatitis annually. It is also responsible for 50 to 70 per cent of chronic liver diseases and 80 per cent of liver cancers in India.
According to company officials, the product will provide an effective cure against the dreaded diseases at a price which is affordable for the masses.
Says Anil Motihar, managing director, Kee Pharma, "While the company has just re-entered the generics segment utilising its traditional strengths of generating volumes, we also aim to strengthen ourselves in biotechnology, the most promising field in the health sector today."
The key active ingredient of Realfa-2B is a chain of glycoproteins, belonging to the genetically distinct alpha class, functioning as immunomodulators.
Kee Pharma has been in the pharma business for over four decades. The company is present in the therapeutic segments of haemostatic agents, respiratory care, anti-inflammatory, antibiotics, hormones, etc. Other brands from the company include Revici, Salsol, Serato-M, Dolocide and Bicidal Plus.