Dr Reddy's launches asthma drug 'Doxobid'

Dr Reddy's Laboratories (DRL) has introduced Doxofylline, a European research product, for the first time in India.

According to an official release issued today, this novel second-generation xanthine bronchodilator is meant to treat patients suffering from asthma and COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease).

The company has introduced this product under license agreement from Kent Union, Hong Kong, and marketing cooperation with the Netherlands-based pharma company - Eurodrug Laboratories BV. The drug will be introduced under the brand name 'Doxobid' and made available in a special pack of 10 in 400 mg dosage, the release said.

Launched nationwide, the product will help DRL in consolidating its position in the asthma and COPD segment as the company has been moving towards strengthening its respiratory portfolio, the release said.

Doxobid is stated to be a unique methyl xanthine with proven remarkable bronchodilator effect coupled with lesser side-effects.The total market of methyl xanthines (combinations and plain) is estimated to be around at Rs 60 crore, the release said.