The US based pharmaceutical and medical device company, Allergan Inc, is expanding its business activity in the Asia Pacific. The company is planning to launch its one billion dollar pharma drug 'Botox' in Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Nepal and Bangladesh in November 2007.

Botox is the flagship product of Allegan Inc and has been approved for 20 unique indications in more than 50 countries. Over the past decade, the uses of Botox have expanded as scientists and physicians continue to recognize its broad applicability. It is used for the treatment of certain ophthalmic movement disorders. Botox therapy is now widely accepted in many regions around the world as the gold standard for indications ranging from therapeutic neuromuscular disorder and related pain to cosmetic facial aesthetics.

Speaking to Pharmabiz, Patrick T Welch , vice president, managing director Asia Allergan medical aesthetics and neuroscience said, "We are committed to delivering innovations in the field of medical science. Botox is looked upon to provide benefits to patients in 20 approved indication across the world. We are planning to launch Botox in Pakistan by the end of next month. We are making huge investment in the terms of awareness programme. In the near future we may start educational institution in India for the physician or to the consumer. The aim is to give them proper knowledge and benefits from the Botox. Recently we have commissioned our clinical office at Bangalore and planning to commission more clinical office across the Asia in the near future".

Botox has been in existence in India for more than a decade. It is widely used by diverse speciality physicians as well as for cosmetic purposes. It is a US $one billion pharma drug in the world. Numerous estimates suggest that Botox is set to continue with its growth rate over the years.