Natco Pharma Ltd has announced that company has fortified its presence in Neurology segment with the launch of Glatimer (glatiramer acetate). Glatiramer acetate is used in the treatment of Multiple Sclerosis by helping reducing the frequency of relapse.

With this launch, the company has become the first generic producer of this drag in the World, apart from being a first time introduction in India. The branded version - called Copaxone - has global sales of US $1.8 billion. Incidental Glatimer will be a peptide chemistry based product - the first one from among a series planned to be introduce by the company.

Multiple Sclerosis, is a disorder of the central nervous system mid an estimated 2.5 million people in the World are affected by this disease. There are around 50,000 people affected by this disease in India. Multiple Sceloris is generally a result of damage to myelin - a protective sheath surrounding the nerve fibres of the central nervous system - thereby interfering with the communication system between the brain and other organs.

The company has launched Glatimer at a MRP of Rs 28,500/- for 30 vials. This is about 40 per cent of the price at which the innovator's brand is available. The company expects that Glatimer would boost its revenues as well as profitability.