Strides Arcolab gets USFDA nod for its generic anti-bacterial capsules

NEW DELHI: Drug firm Strides Arcolab today said it has received approval from the US health regulator to market its generic vancomycin hydrochloride capsules used for treating bacterial infections in the American market.

The company plans to immediately launch the product through US-headquartered firm Alvogen on a profit sharing basis, Strides Arcolab said in a a statement.

The firm has received approval from US Food and Drug Administration ( USFDA) for Vancomycin Hydrochloride capsules USP in the strengths of 125 mg and 250 mg, it added.

Commenting on the development, Strides Group CEO Arun Kumar said: "Oral vancomycin development is one among the many value generics programmes being undertaken at the Strides group with a special focus to develop niche and difficult-to -manufacture products".

According to IMS health data, vancomycin capsules had total US sales of USD 332 million for the twelve months ending February 12, Strides said.

Vancomycin capsules used in prevention and treatment of infections caused by 'gram-positive bacteria' are considered only after treatment with other antibiotics has failed, it added.

Strides Arcolab scrips were today trading at Rs 630 per share in the morning trade on BSE, up 5.70 per cent from its previous close.