Natco Pharma Ltd has announced the launch of a world-class oral contraceptive under the brand name tarana. Tarana, which contains drospirenone 3 mg and ethinyl estradiol 0.03 mg, will be the first generic version of the international brand.

Tarana is unique and different from other oral contraceptives available in the market. Its uniqueness lies in its combination composition of drospirenone and ethinyl estradiol, as opposed to progestin contained in traditional oral contraceptives.

Tarana is a true fourth generation drug, and has no side-effects-such as weight gain, bloating, increase in blood pressure and increase in LDL levels - evidenced in the use of other contraceptives. In addition, Tarana has the ability to reduce acne, unwanted facial hair (hirsutism) and also takes care of pre-menstrual dysphoric disorders.

With the literacy rates going up and fertility rates coming down, the market for oral contraceptives is ever increasing. According to available statistics, 4 per cent of the women in India use oral contraceptives, while it is around 30 per cent in the US. This percentage is bound to grow due to increased acceptance of the state-of-the art, side-effect free molecule. Improved economic conditions and literacy rate are also contributory factors to the growth.

Tarana is targeted at a population of around 50 million in the age range of 25-32 years, and is competitively priced at Rs 290 MRP for 21 active and 7 inert pills which are sufficient for one menstrual cycle. With the introduction of Tarana, the company aims at cornering a sizeable share of the present Rs 90 crore oral contraceptive market in India.