Wockhardt Ltd has signed an in-licensing agreement with Advanced Biotechnologies Inc. of US to market a patent-protected product to treat scars.

"Wockhardt is committed to cater to unmet medical needs of Indian patients," Wockhardt chairman Habil Khorakiwala said. "We will soon introduce a patented gel - Kelocote - to treat scars and keloids arising from accidents, burns, surgery and acne."

Kelocote is a unique silicone gel for scars arising from accidents, burns, surgery and acne as well as skin disorders such as dermatitis and varicella. It is also useful in treating keloids, which are fibrous growths formed over healed wounds. Kelocote is available as an easy-to-apply gel form with self-drying action.

While clinical trials on Indian patients are in progress, clinical data from various countries has already proven its efficacy and cost-effectiveness. Kelocote is currently marketed in North America, Europe, Australia and South-East Asia. The company plans to launch Kelocote in India in the third quarter of 2007.

Scars are a common but under managed problem. More than 100 million people acquire new scars each year in developed countries alone. Abnormal scars can be aesthetically distressing, disfiguring as well as psychologically disabling.

Last year, the company entered into an in-licensing deal with LSI of UK for Vitix, a patented product for the management of vitiligo (leucoderma) and with Crawford Healthcare of UK for Viticolor, a camouflage gel for vitiligo-affected skins.