Wockhardt in-licenses osteoarthritis drug

Wockhardt has signed an in-licensing agreement with Italy-based Gnosis SpA to market SAMe (S-adenosyl methionine), a process patented product for the treatment of osteoarthritis, says a release issued by the company to the BSE.

"SAMe will complement our pain portfolio and further strengthen our osteoarthritis portfolio", said Habil Khorakiwala, chairman, Wockhardt. "We bring to India new products which will fill the gaps in the existing products portfolio."

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a condition in which low-grade inflammation results in pain in the joints, cause by wear and tear of cartilage. It is estimated that 80% of the population will have radiographic evidence of OA by age 65, which is alarming considering the increase of ageing population in India.

SAMe in addition to its pain relief effect plays an important role in cartilage formation and repairs. Multi-countries clinical data has proven its efficacy and its role in osteoarthritis. As per ORG-IMS, the India market for this product is worth Rs 270 crore, the release says.

Gnosis SpA is an Italy-based advance biotechnology company specialising in research and development of innovative process in the field of biotechnology.