The Himalaya Drug Company is all set to strengthen its hepatoprotective space by exploring new disease categories in the segment. Its product, Liv 52, is a highly successful product and the company is also looking to expand the number of clinical trials for Liv 52 and grow its database.
The company has recently, expanded its Liv 52 range with the ‘Liv 52’ DS syrup to the existing portfolio. ‘Liv 52’ DS is available in the tablet form as well. The drug is helpful in addressing the need for a hepatoprotective in certain specific therapeutic groups like drug-induced hepatitis, jaundice and anorexia during pregnancy and also in non-alcoholic steatohepatitis. The syrup form, which has the same efficacy rate, is helpful for patients that are unable to swallow tablets. “We will keep adding new products to expand the range”, Philipe Haydon, CEO—Pharmaceuticals, The Himalaya Drug Company.
As per the ORG/IMS report published in January 2011, Liv 52 is currently a Rs.137 crore valued product.
On the occasion of the World Liver Day, on April 19, 2011 for Himalaya its flagship brand has become a drug of choice for hepatoprotective ailments. According to the Indian Pharmaceutical Market ranking, Liv 52 is the only herbal medicine to feature in the top 15 of the best selling drugs in India. The drug is accredited with more than 250 studies. It is the only hepatoprotective with a meta-analysis study in infective hepatitis. Further, Liv 52 is included by the American Botanical Council in the ABC clinical guide to herbs. The Intercantonal office of the Control of Medicines in Switzerland approves Liv 52 as a pharmaceutical specialty drug. It is prescribed as an adjuvant in the treatment of TB in hospitals in Russia.
The company stated that Liv 52 accounts for substantial contribution to its overall revenues.
Providing details of the inception of the hepatoprotective brand, Haydon stated that in the 50s Himalaya’s scientists were testing herbal compositions that could improve liver functions. Clinical trials were carried out on several coded herbal formulations. One of them, coded 52, was successful in the treatment of hepatitis. “The formulation was then put through rigorous research and trials to ensure safety and efficacy. The drug became available in the market by 1955 and was marketed under the brand name Liv 52,” he added.
In order to cater to the paediatric segment, the company also has Liv 52 syrup and Liv 52 drops for infants. The drug offers a hepatoprotective action and restores the functional efficiency of the liver. Paediatricians also recommend Liv 52 in children for several conditions including below average growth rate. Both Liv 52 drops and syrup are faring exceeding well and are significant contributors to the total brand, stated Haydon.
The product is also exported to over 40 countries, including Russia, Switzerland, Venezuela, Egypt and United Arab Emirates.