* Launches New DTP Vaccines with Acellular Technology |
* Boostrix to prevent waning immunity against Diphtheria, Tetanus & Pertussis in older children and adolescents |
* Infanrix for childhood DTP immunization, offers reduced pain, fever and swelling |
Mumbai, January 30, 2008: GlaxoSmithKline Pharmaceuticals Ltd. (GSK), today announced the launch of two new innovative Diphtheria, Tetanus and acellular Pertussis (DTP) vaccines- Boostrix and Infanrix. Unlike traditional vaccines, acellular vaccines provide far more comfort to parents and the children due to substantially reduced pain, fever and swelling. Worldwide, acellular DTP vaccines are a part of routine immunization in over 100 developed and developing countries. |
Infanrix is indicated for childhood immunization against Diphtheria, Tetanus and Pertussis for newborns from 6th week of age. When combined with Hib vaccines it reduces the number of pricks and visits to the doctor. |
Boostrix can be administered to older children above 7 years of age, adolescents and adults and will boost the waning immunity against Diphtheria, Tetanus and Pertussis. Studies have shown that immunity against Diphtheria, Tetanus and Pertussis wanes after childhood immunization as protection lasts up to 4-12 years after vaccination. Due to waning immunity, incidence of pertussis and diphtheria is increasing in adolescents and adults. Of concern is the fact that adults can pass Pertussis infection to infants leading to high disease burden. Till date there was no vaccine available in India, which could be given to this age group. |
GSK's Boostrix is USFDA approved and well accepted in 58 countries. American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends Boostrix at 10 years of age. |
Commenting on the launch of the two vaccines, Dr. Hasit Joshipura, Managing Director, GlaxoSmithKline Pharmaceuticals Limited said, "GSK India remains committed to providing the latest and most effective preventive care particularly for children. The launch of Infanrix and Boostrix will be a step forward in this mission." |
About GlaxoSmithKline |
GlaxoSmithKline Plc - one of the world's leading research-based pharmaceutical and healthcare companies - is committed to improving the quality of human life by enabling people to do more, feel better and live longer. In India, GlaxoSmithKline Pharmaceuticals Limited is one of the market leaders with a turnover of Rs. 1500 crore and employs over 3500 people. For more information, visit www.gsk-india.com. |
About GlaxoSmithKline Biologicals |
GlaxoSmithKline Biologicals (GSK Biologicals), one of the world's leading vaccine manufacturers, is located in Rixensart, Belgium. Belgium is the centre of all GlaxoSmithKline's activities in the field of vaccine research, development and production. GSK Biologicals employs more than 1000 research scientists who are devoted to discovering new vaccines and developing more cost-effective and convenient combination products to prevent infections that cause serious medical problems worldwide. For information, visit GSK Biologicals' website at www.gsk-bio.com. |