Panacea Biotec Ltd has been granted patent by Government of India, for invention entitled process, for the preparation of 'Extended Release Pharmaceutical composition contains Nimesulide' for the 20 years in accordance with the provisions of the Patents Act, 1970.

Nimesulide is one of the most widely prescribed non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) with excellent analgesic, anripyretic and safety profile. It has a unique mechanism of action when compared to other NSAIDs. The company has launched its 'Extended Release Nimesulide' under the brand name 'Willgo' in 2004 in India. 'WILLGO' has recorded a growth rate of around 48 per cent over last year (ORG IMS June'06).

'Willgo' provides effective management of Osteoarthritis by providing continuous relief from chronic joint pain in osteoarthritis patients. 'Willgo' offers excellent patient compliance, as only one tablet needs to be taken at bedtime. "We have already received this Patent in 10 countries so far, out of 34 countries, where Patent applications have been flied," said Rajesh Jain, joint managing director, of the company.

The recent grant of Extended Release Nimesulide (Willgo) Patent has greatly boosted our morale to keep up our efforts in developing novel and innovative drug delivery systems through our R&D efforts.

'Willgo' provides effective relief from joint pain and stiffness, swelling and tenderness, which leads to improved functional mobility in patients of osteoarthritis, enabling them to perform daily functional activities.

The size of the global NSAID market is around USD 11 billion annually between 2000-2005, NSAIDs categorized as Coxibs (Celecoxib, Rofecoxib, Valdecoxib, Etoricoxib), were the most preferred NSAIDs in management of Osteoarthritis. After the withdrawal of various Coxibs from the international and domestic markets in 2005, 'WILLGO' would fit into the bill with its efficacy, good tolerability and convenient once daily dosage for osteoarthritis patients.

The total NSAID market in India is estimated at Rs 1,034 crore annually. Nimesulide is the largest selling single ingredient NSAID in oral dosage form, having a market of around Rs 126 crore, annually in India.