The Hyderabad-based Natco Pharma has launched its brand X-trant - Estramustine 140 mg. capsules. X-trant, is used in the palliative treatment of metastatic / progressive carcinoma of prostate, and ensures complete hormonal as well as cytotoxic control.

While ensuring reduction in the intensity of pain, and absence of hepatic and renal toxicity, X-trant is a unique anti-tumor agent and its usage would improve performance status of patients suffering from prostate cancer. The medicine is also useful in patients with limited bone marrow reserve, a company release said.

X-trant has a dual mode of action. Structurally, X-trant (Estramustine) would be a phosphorylated combination of estradiol and mechlorethamine (nitrogen mustard). The intact molecule acts as an antimitotic agent. It binds to a protein present in the tumor tissue which results in an accumulation of the drug at the target site.

Hitherto available only through import channel, Natco is to ensure availability of the drug, and is priced at Rs 13,500 per bottle of 100 capsules.