Natco Pharma has launched a generic version of tenofovir alafenamide (TAF) 25mg used for the treatment of hepatitis B. Patients can now take one tablet daily for the treatment of chronic hepatitis B in adults.

Hepatitis B is a virus that infects the liver. Most adults who get it have it for a short time and then get better. This is called acute hepatitis B. Sometimes the virus causes a long-term infection, called chronic hepatitis B. Over time, it can damage the liver. Babies and young children infected with the virus are more likely to get chronic hepatitis B.

At present there are only branded drugs available in the market to treat the viral disease. In view of this, Natco has come up with the new generic version which is more effective, efficacious and affordable. The company has launched tenofovir alafenamide generic drug under the brand Tafnat in India.

According to the company sources Tafnat is manufactured under licence from Medicines of Patent Pool (MPP) and Gilead Sciences. The drug demonstrates comparable efficacy with an enhanced renal and bone safety profile as compared to earlier formulation of tenofovir.

Natco pharma has priced the medicine at Rs. 1,900 for a monthly pack of 30 tablets.