Strides Arcolab has collaborated with Pfizer to commercialize 40 off-patent sterile injectable and oral products in the United States through the latter's established products business unit. The finished dosage form products will be licensed and supplied by Strides and Onco Laboratories Limited and Onco Therapies Limited, two joint ventures between Strides and Aspen, South Africa, in which each has a 50 per cent ownership interest. The financial terms of the supply agreement were not disclosed.

Pfizer's established products business unit launched its US Injectables team less than 10 months ago and is already marketing products in the US. Through this new collaboration with Strides, Pfizer is gearing up to become one of the top players in the injectables market, according to the company note.

Both Strides and Pfizer view the collaboration as highly complementary. Many of these drugs are oncology therapeutics for healthcare providers and patients in the US. By integrating Pfizer's solid commercial infrastructure with Strides' high-quality manufacturing capabilities, the first of the products commercialized under this collaboration is expected to be launched in the second half of 2010.

"This collaboration with Strides is new and we are encouraged about the potential of this relationship," said David Simmons, president and general manager, Pfizer's established products business unit. "In addition, this agreement brings the total number of products in-licensed by our Established Products Business Unit to more than 200 which results in a total portfolio of approximately 600 high-quality, reliable, and cost effective products for patients," he added.

"Partnering with Pfizer enhances our ability to reach a larger base of customers and patients in need of quality treatment options. We have established a reputation for efficient formulation development and technologies, manufacturing, and operational flexibility and are looking forward to bringing these strengths to bear in our collaboration with Pfizer," said Arun Kumar, founder and managing director, Strides Arcolab.

Strides has 14 manufacturing facilities across 6 countries, including its joint venture with Aspen in India and has a marketing presence in more than 60 countries in developed and emerging markets. Its production and research wings has a total personnel strength 2000 across all countries of which 350 accounts for its scientific team.