Lupin launches antibiotic drug Zaxine in Canada

Lupin Pharma Canada Limited, the Canadian subsidiary of Lupin Limited, has launched its first brand product Zaxine under a strategic licensing agreement with the North Carolina based gastrointestinal (GI) specialty company Salix Pharmaceuticals Inc. The agreement grants Lupin exclusive rights to promote, distribute and market Zaxine in the Canada.
 
Zaxine 550 mg (rifaximin) is a long term antibiotic treatment for adults living with hepatic encephalopathy (HE), a complication of liver disease (cirrhosis). HE can lead to a wide spectrum of mental and physical symptoms, including confusion, disruption in sleep patterns, personality changes and coma Zaxine 550 mg has been approved by Health Canada under priority review for the reduction in risk of overt HE recurrence in patients.
 
Lupin will promote the product to hepatologists and gastroenterologists through its own specialty sales force in Canada. Lupin is in the process of establishing its Canadian presence and the launch opens up growth opportunities for the future.
 
Vinita Gupta, chief executive officer, Lupin Limited, said, “We are very excited with the expansion of Lupin’s business into Canada given the opportunity we have, to create a brand presence with the launch of Zaxine. The launch demonstrates Lupin’s commitment to grow its brand franchise in North America and bring meaningful products to patients in Canada.”