TTK Healthcare is likely to sign a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Annamalai University, Chidamabaram, Tamil Nadu, for collaborative research for the period of three years.

One of the initiatives of the research collaboration would be to develop a new indigenous vegetable capsule, the first of its kind in the world. Speaking to Pharmabiz.com, Dr. K.A.Narendra Nath, senior vice president, maintained that though in principle the two institutions have agreed for research collaboration, a formal MOU would be signed in this regard in the next few weeks.

"The research collaboration initiative is for a period of three years. We have yet to firm up on the investment in the initiative and once this is done the MOU would be through," Dr. Narendra Nath maintained. While Annamalai University would commit financial stake in the initiative based on the funding from the Department of Science and Technology (DST) and the University Grants Commission (UGC), TTK Healthcare would be digging from its reserves.

Refusing to divulge further details about the research collaboration initiative, Dr. Narendra Nath added that it would be exhaustive and cover many segments including developing new molecules. "However, the plan to develop vegetable capsules would be the main attraction," he added.

Meanwhile, the company is increasing its focus on developing new products under the Indian Systems of Medicine. Dr. Narendra Nath maintained that the Indian Medicine Division (IMD) of the company had already lined up new products for launch over the next few months. Most of the products would be aimed at the obstetrics and gynaecology segment in which the company has craved a strong position in the domestic market. Besides, anti-stress and anti-ageing products would also be developed and launched.

The company is also planning to launch new products in the coming months in the allopathic segment, according to Dr. Narendra Nath, who however refused to divulge further details. These products are being marketed by the Ethical Marketing Division (EMD) of the company.

Recently, the company launched a higher version of its brand, Ossopan, the product for osteoporosis, Ossopan 500 and Ossopan 1000 which according to Dr. Narendra Nath was well received by the medical fraternity. Ossopan contains calcium with fortified Vitamin D3.