Fixed combination drug launches for prevention of sickness due to chemotherapy

Helsinn — a Swiss pharmaceutical group — and Glenmark Pharmaceuticals — a research-led global pharma company — have launched a fixed combination drug for the prevention of chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV), AKYNZEO, to the Indian market.

This new product, a fixed combination of netupitant 300 mg and palonosetron 0.5 mg, has been developed by Helsinn and Glenmark has the exclusive rights for it in India and Nepal. The prophylactic therapy is administered in a single capsule that acts on two main pathways associated with both acute and delayed phased of nausea and vomiting resulting from chemotherapy.

“Oncology is a key area of focus for Glenmark, and we are committed to bringing in new treatment options for Indian patients,” said Sujesh Vasudevan, president — India Formulations, Middle East and Africa at Glenmark. “Nausea and vomiting associated with chemotherapy has a significant impact on quality of life of cancer patients that can influence a patient’s adherence to the treatments being undertaken. AKYNZEO is a convenient single-dose for each chemotherapy cycle oral capsule with an activity that covers both the acute and delayed phase of CINV, avoiding multiple drug antiemetic options and thereby improving patient compliance.”

“We are very pleased to announce that the oral fixed combination AKYNZEO® has now been launched in India and Nepal, providing a new prophylactic option for patients suffering from chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting,” commented Riccardo Braglia, Helsinn Group vice chairman and CEO. “Helsinn is focused on helping people with cancer get the best out of every day and is pleased to be expanding its availability. Glenmark is a trusted partner with an excellent footprint in this region and a commitment to providing the best treatment options for people with cancer and we are delighted to be working alongside them on this.”