Adding another revolutionary drug in its cardio basket, the Ahmedabad-based Cadila Pharmaceuticals (CPL), has launched the nitric oxide donating beta – 1 blocker nebivolol, formulation under the brand name ‘Nodon’ in the Indian market. CPL is at present the only indigenous manufacturer of nebivolol bulk drug in the country.
Currently, Cadila Pharma has a strong cardio product mix with many first launches in India. CPL brands, Envas and Fovas are India’s first ever launches in categories, Enalapril and Fosinopril. In addition to these, Cadila Pharma was the first company in the country to launch indigenously developed streptokinase, under the brand name Stpase and it was also the first Indian Company to introduce the concept of Homocysteine Regulations in Cardio Therapy locally. Homocysteine is a vital factor, associated with the risks of coronary artery diseases like acute myocardial infarction.
Nebivolol is a very selective beta – 1 blocker, its beta-1 selectivity is the highest amongst all the available beta-1 blockers today. Moreover, this is the only molecule, which restores nitric oxide production in endothelium dysfunction (dysfunction in the inner layer of the blood vessel), thereby providing vasodilatory effect, which is not seen in any other beta-1 blocker. Currently available beta-1 blockers are also known for side effects like impotence; whereas nebivolol stands distinctly apart in this respect also with zero side effects. This makes ‘Nodon’, one of the finest beta-1 blockers in the treatment of coronary artery diseases.
Conventional beta-1 blockers are also associated with worsening of left ventricular function, which is vital for the normal functioning of heart. However, nebivolol improves the left ventricular function, thereby scoring over conventional beta-1 blockers.
The cardiovascular market in India is estimated at Rs. 685 crore of which beta-blockers alone contribute to Rs.187 crore. “Growing at a rate of 8%, the beta-blocker market in India is driven by top brands. Only revolutionary molecules, like nebivolol (Nodon) can break the entry barrier” says a company press release.
“Cadila Pharma being the only manufacturer of nebivolol bulk in India today, the Company has an edge over the competition,” says R. Sahni, Sr. Vice President, Marketing, CPL. In the very first year, CPL expects a turnover of Rs. 6 crore from this product.