Elder Pharmaceuticals Ltd (EPL), the Rs 800-crore manufacturer of superbrand calcium supplement ShelCal, plans to launch 35 new products in the next 30 months in niche therapeutic segments like female healthcare, osteoporosis, dermatology, pain management, cardiology, nutraceuticals, wound care and vitamin supplements.
The new products would include both in-licensed and the company's own products, although the larger focus would be on self-researched products.
The company has a research and development centre at Navi Mumbai, which is recognised by the Department of Scientific & Industrial Research, ministry of science and technology. “We are looking at launching at least eight-nine products each in the women’s healthcare and nutraceuticals segments, which are growing at an average 18-20 per cent annually — higher than the 12-13 per cent growth rate of the overall domestic pharma industry. Our scientists are also working on new products, new drug delivery systems and combination therapies in niche therapeutic segments...We hope to launch at least three-four new products in each of these segments,” said Alok Saxena, director, EPL. The company has earmarked an investment of about Rs 120-130 crore for its plans.
EPL is also looking at the wound care and pain management segments, which account for about 16 per cent of the company's turnover. The company plans to start therapies which are non-invasive and have little or no side effects.
Since women’s healthcare products & nutraceuticals account for almost 50 per cent of the company’s turnover, the emphasis would be on products for the treatment and nutrition for women. The company already has a range of products for women and new opportunities are being identified to fulfil all the daily nutritional and medical needs of women.
Shelcal, a calcium supplement primarily aimed at women, is one of the largest selling pharmaceutical products in the country.
