New Delhi based Mitra Industries Limited is all set to introduce indigenously manufactured Continuous Ambulatory Peritoneal Dialysis (CAPD) kits for the first time in India. The company has received the manufacturing license from the drug control authorities and is expected to come out with the CAPD kits in three months time. The approval has been given for PD Solutions of nine strengths.

According to company sources, the product would be competitively priced and would pose a challenge to the highly priced imported CAPD systems currently available in the country. The multinational companies who are into the import and marketing of CAPD in India are Baxter, Fregeniers and Claris.

"We are the first Indian company to manufacture the product. Though CAPD is there in the market for two years, only few could afford the treatment. We have developed indigenous technology for PD bags and PD fluids. Since we have all components in place we could afford to provide a complete kit for peritoneal dialysis to the patient at a competitive price," sources said.

Peritoneal dialysis using imported products are costing a patient between Rs 18,000 to Rs 20,000 a month. The entry of Mitra products is expected to trigger a price war in this segment.

While the only permanent treatment for renal impairment is a kidney transplant, dialysis is considered as a practical solution in all developed countries. In India, where organ donation is yet to be popular and with stories of flourishing kidney rackets, many doctors consider PD as the first option.

CAPD is "continuous", machine-free and done while one goes about with his/her normal activities. The treatment is done by placing about two quarts of cleansing fluid into the belly and later draining it. Some doctors feel that CAPD has several benefits when compared to hemodialysis, the conventional method of dialysis. "With continuous dialysis, you can control extra fluid more easily, and this may reduce stress on the heart and blood vessels. You are able to eat more and use fewer medications. You can do more of your daily activities and it is easier to work or travel," they opine.

According to US based National Kidney Foundation, peritoneal dialysis is not for everyone. It also cautions that people must receive training and be able to perform correctly each of the steps of the treatment.

The huge automation required for setting up hemodialysis facility has also been highlighted as an issue. On the other hand, CAPD can be considered as a home therapy. The company sources informed that there are about 2000 patients who are presently on CAPD. Quoting the observations of Indian Society of Nephrology, they predicted 35% growth in the number of patients in the country every year.