Dr Reddy's Laboratories, a pioneer in medical management of BPH in India with launch of Finast in 1996, has now introduced Alfuzosin Hydrochloride indicated for treatment of signs and symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).

Alfuzosin Hydrochloride is introduced under the brand name "Alfoo" and is available in extended release tablets of 10 mg dosage. Alfuzosin ER scores over other alpha-blockers by way of providing rapid relief from signs and symptoms of BPH to offer a better quality of life.

Launched nationwide, Alfoo will further help the company consolidate its position in the urology segment where the company already has strong brands present. The product is now available in over 5,700 retail counters across the nation and is being marketed by a strong field force of over 100 scientific business officers.

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is the most common non neo-plastic disorder of aging in men. The prevalence of BPH increases from 8 per cent in men between 31 and 40 years of age to 50 per cent in men between 51 and 60 years of age.

Alfuzosin ER is an opportunity in the alpha-blocker market and adds to the urology basket of the company. The company has over 10 products in the urology segment of which Finast (Finasteride) Dutas (Dutasteride) and Dynapres (Tamsulosin) are leading brands. The market size for the product as per April 2006 market data is valued at Rs 270/- million. The urology segment is estimated at Rs 650.80/- million.