Allergan India, the ophthalmology major is now continuing its efforts to spur growth prospects with its range of 35 products. It also intends to maximize its growth opportunities with Botox which is showing favourable response for several neurological disorders in both paediatrics and adult patients.

The company’s comprehensive ophthalmic portfolio of glaucoma, dry eyes, inflammation, infection control and post operative drugs have resulted in garnering healthy growth. With a presence in India since February 1996, the company is now looking to consolidate its leadership status in the Rs 700 crore ophthalmic domestic market, Raghu Kumar, managing director, Allergan India Pvt Ltd told Pharmabiz.

Not willing to divulge details on the revenues from India and its contribution to the parent company the Allergan Inc. which clocked a total product net sales of $1,206.5 million in 2009, Kumar said that market opportunities were huge in India going by the prevalence of eye disorders and diseases. India accounts for around 20 million patients affected with eye problems. The fastest growth drivers from our product portfolio are the glaucoma drugs: Combigan, GanForte and Lumigan. Refresh Tears for dry eyes syndrome which is also the flagship brand forms the backbone of sales.

In the Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) and Retinitis Pigmentosa segment, Allergan India has Novoret and it is now looking to expand its products for retina care in India. A visible tend in the space is the increasing importance to protect the Retina. We would also launch more drugs in 3 months, he added.

The company which is a joint venture of Allergan Inc. and Nicolas Piramal India Ltd has 4 verticals: Eyecare, Medical Aesthetics & Neurosciences, Clinical Research & Allergan Health. The effort will also be to explore more opportunities with Botox and the Juvéderm family of dermal fillers in India.

Outlining the plan of action for this year, Allergan India chief said that its field force was increased to 230 taking its total personnel strength to 330 and more hiring was on the cards to spearhead its sales.

The ophthalmic market in India has several pharma majors including Sun, Micro Labs, Cipla and FDC. The tropical climate, poor diets, stress related disorders drive the eye care market in the country together with a profusion of dedicated corporate eye care hospitals. As a niche player in the field, Allergan India is now looking to develop tailor made products for the country. Various improved versions in infection and inflammation control are high volume markets here, said Kumar.