Ranbaxy Laboratories Ltd has announced an exclusive in-licensing agreement with CD Pharma to market the Inersan brand in India and Nepal.

The patented product, a probiotic preparation, is used for the treatment of dental problems such as periodontitis, Gingivitis and Halitosis. Presently, there is no particular drug available for the treatment of this dental problem. Inersan, a natural biological product, shall be a first-of-its-kind to be introduced in India.

Commenting on the development, Sanjeev I Dani, senior vice president and regional director Asia and CIS, Ranbaxy, said, "In the post patent era, we are driven by the need to in-license differentiated products and introduction of Inersan tablets consolidates Ranbaxy's position in dental segment". He also added that periodontitis, gingivitis and halitosis are common dental problems which if ignored, can lead to more serious complications. Dental practitioners in India currently do not have any specialized prescription product for these conditions and Inersan tablets address this need for the segment".

Early-stage Periodontitis (gum disease) is painful and causes swollen and bleeding gums. This can lead to serious infection and eventually may cause tooth loss if left untreated. Some dentists recommend surgical options such as flap surgery, soft tissue grafting or bone grafting and guided tissue regeneration.

Studies carried out over the years have shown that gum disease can affect a person's overall health. Women with advanced gum diseases are likely to give birth to an underweight or pre-term baby while the ability of oral microbes to cross the placental barrier can expose the fetus to infection. Cardiac ailment patients have to be more careful to avoid periodontitis because the bacteria from the mouth can cause clotting problems in the cardiovascular system and increase the risk of fatal heart attacks.