Alembic Limited plans to launch a Novel Drug Delivery System (NDDS) for nimesulide - Nimegesic OD. This NDDS for nimesulide has been developed for the first time at eh Alembic Research Centre, and signifies Alembic's expertise in this field.

Atul Barman, Vice President Formulations said, "Recent trends of mergers and acquisitions and IPR compliance in the Indian Pharma industry will have a significant impact on the way we do business and the emerging area of NDDS design is a stepping stone to exciting business opportunities."

Nimegesic OD is designed using 'synergistic technology' and is a baitlayer tablet from which the active drug is released in two stages. Immediate relief is offered by instant release of the drug in the first stage and the subsequent release ensures a prolonged effect. "This NDDS has been developed indigenously at the Alembic Research Centre and now that we have the expertise, we will be extending such technologies to other molecules as well," said Barman.

Alembic's Nimegesic OD will soon offer patients, for the first time, the convenience of a once daily (OD) dosage for effective pain management therapy for chronic ailments. Nimesulide is a widely used non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) and is indicated for pain, fever and inflammation. This is a sequel to Alembic's Nimesulide IR launched in January 2000, which is now one of the top nimesulide brands in India.

Nimegesic OD will hit the market by mid-August and will further consolidate Alembic's already impressive NSAID portfolio. This new launch is expected to contribute Rs. 30 million in the first year of launch and bolster the company's ambitious growth plans. Alembic Limited is a leader in macrolides and has a sizeable presence in NSAID segment.