Dr Reddy’s launches darbepoetin alfa in India – World’s first generic darbepoetin alfa and the only one in India

 

Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories Ltd. announced the launch of Cresp®’- the first generic darbepoetin alfa in the world, and the only darbepoetin alfa in India. Cresp® has been approved in India for the treatment of anemia due to chronic kidney disease and anemia due to chemotherapy.

Darbepoetin alfa is a modified version of epoetin alfa (rHuEPO), which is engineered to have a longer half life, increasing (up to 3 times) the time it remains in the blood. This results in a reduced frequency of doses, providing a simpler and more convenient treatment option for patients and physicians as compared to treatment of anemia with epoetin which is the current standard of care in India.

Commenting on the launch, GV Prasad, Vice-Chairman and CEO, Dr. Reddy’s said,” Cresp® will offer patients in India an improved treatment regimen at affordable pricing. The launch of Cresp® by Dr. Reddy’s is a significant step in redefining the treatment of anemia in India and underscores our commitment to provide affordable and innovative medicines to patients in India”.

Cartikeya Reddy, Senior Vice President and Head of Biologics, Dr. Reddy’s said, The launch of Cresp® is a significant achievement, demonstrating once again our development capabilities in the area of biosimilars. RedituxTM, launched three years ago, was the first, and still the only biosimilar monoclonal antibody in the world. Cresp® represents another important first as the only biosimilar Darbepoetin alfa in the world. Cresp® offers convenient dosing, predictable rise and excellent long term control of Hb.