As part of its future research initiatives, Allergan Inc. has set up the Allergan Pharmaceutical Development Centre in Bangalore which will handle clinical development and basic R&D projects conducted in the country. The ophthalmology drug major has chalked out a plan for $3 to$5 million investments over the next two years. The company has already hired 15 people for clinical research and data management, which will be doubled within two years.

The centre will initially focus on therapies like inflammatory and infective conditions of the eye and back of the eye, apart from neurological and urological conditions, stated Dr Raman Shetty, head, Clinical Research India, Allergan.

The development centre will be part of the Allergan's Europe and Asia R&D, which currently employs over 125 personnel. The key objective of the India Centre is to develop advanced drugs for patients in the country. Currently, Indian ophtha market size is estimated at Rs 400 crore and growing at 18 per cent with players like Cipla, Sun Pharma and FDC in the fray. Allergan holds the highest market share in the sector here.

For pursuing research activities, the company is already in dialogue with scientists at the Indian Institute of Science who are already working on neurosciences drug development. It will also interact with medical institutions for scientific collaborations. The research focus areas include protection of eye cell death and control of retina-brain stress related conditions, stated Dr Scott M Whitcup, executive vice president, R&D for Allergan worldwide.

"India has been recognized for its rapid research capabilities, large scientific workforce to allow the company to explore the entire spectrum of R&D activities. Allergan would be focused in the implementation of clinical research on its own or through clinical research organizations (CROs)," he added.

The company is already conducting a global multi-centric trial in India for the Macular edema which is the most common cause of vision diabetics and vascular disorders caused due to leaking of fluid from blood vessels within the macula. Around 1,000 patients are roped in globally for the phase III study of the sustained release steroid implant which is also going on at leading eye care centres in the country. These trial will now be coordinated by the India Pharmaceutical Development Centre.

Allergan India which has been operational in the country since 1996 has been marketing around 40 ophtha brands for dry eyes, Glaucoma, steroids and NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug). The company entered into a joint venture pact with Nicholas Piramal to manufacture its products at Pithampur in Madhya Pradesh.