Ranbaxy Laboratores Limited (Ranbaxy) has signed an exclusive licensing agreement with Atrix Laboratories Inc to develop and commercialize Eligard (leuprolide acetate for injectable suspension) in India.

Ranbaxy has licensed the rights to register and market Eligard 7.5mg once-a month, Eligard 22.5mg three-month and Eligard 30mg four-month products in India and maintains the option to license the Eligard 45mg six-month product.

According to a company press release, Ranbaxy will be responsible for regulatory submissions and any studies that may be necessary to gain approval with the Indian regulatory authorities. Atrix will manufacture the products for Ranbaxy in their facility in Fort Collins, Colorado.

Commenting on the occasion, Sanjeev I Dani, regional director, India, Ranbaxy, said, "Ranbaxy is delighted to partner with Atrix in this area and we shall work towards creating a productive relationship by complementing each others strengths." "Prostate cancer being a nascent segment has a strong growth potential. The agreement will complement Ranbaxy s focus in the area of Urology," he added.

Leutenizing Hormone Releasing Hormone (LHRH) agonists, like Eligard, are commonly used for the treatment of hormone-responsive advanced prostate cancer.

Atrix Laboratories, Inc. is an emerging specialty pharmaceutical company focused on advanced drug delivery.