Natco Pharma launches drug for prostate cancer

City-based Natco Pharma Limited, which has forayed into the oncology segment, has launched X-trant "� Estramustine 140 mg capsules.

X-trant, is used in the palliative treatment of metastatic/progressive carcinoma of prostate and ensures complete hormonal as well as cytotoxic control.

Earlier available only through the import route, Natco's X-trant will be available at an affordable price with a maximum retail price of Rs 13,500 per bottle of 100 capsules.

According to a company press release, X-trant ensures reduction in the intensity of pain and absence of hepatic and renal toxicity.

"It is also a unique anti-tumour agent and its usage would improve performance status of patients suffering from prostate cancer. The medicine is also useful in patients with limited bone marrow reserve."

X-trant has a dual mode of action. Structurally, X-trant (Estramustine) would be a phosphorylated combination of estradiol and mechlorethamine (nitrogen mustard).

The intact molecule acts as an antimitotic agent. It binds to a protein present in the tumour tissue which results in an accumulation of the drug at the target site.