GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) Pharma has announced a collaboration agreement with Japan based Astellas Pharma Inc. for exclusive rights for the latter's injectible anti-fungal agent Micafungin (brand name Mycamine) in the Indian market.

Micafungin, an original research product of Astellas was initially approved by Japanese Agency in 2002, by the US FDA in 2005 followed by other countries.

Commenting on the deal, Dr Hasit Joshipura, managing director, GSK India said, "One of our growth planks is to partner with global pharmaceutical companies for licensing in important molecules. The agreement with Astellas is in line with this strategy of ours".

Ravi Limaye, vice president, Pharmaceuticals, GSK India added, "Micafungin strengthens GSK's presence in Intensive Care. It also provides an excellent fit with oncology where GSK has a promising R&D pipeline".

Micafungin belongs to a new class of anti-fungal agents that work against deep seated Candida infections. It has a novel mode of action and is indicated for the treatment of patients with Esophageal Candidiasis and the prophylaxis of Candida Infections in patients undergoing Haematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation in the US. It works by interfering with the formation of the cell wall of the fungus, which results in the death of the fungus. In January 2008, the US FDA also granted approval for the use of Micafungin in the treatment of patients with Candidemia, Acute Disseminated Candidiasis, Candida Peritonitis and Abscesses.