Akms Drugs & Pharma secures patent for new treatment for sickle cell disease
Akms Drugs & Pharmaceuticals has secured a patent for an oral suspension of hydroxyurea that is stable at room temperature and will help in the management of sickle cell disease without the need for refrigeration.
Delhi-based drugmaker Akms Drugs and Pharmaceuticals on Friday announced that it has been granted a patent for a room-temperature stable oral suspension of hydroxyurea, designed to help manage sickle cell disease (SCD).
This new formulation is a major breakthrough as it does not require refrigeration unlike the conventional hydroxyurea solution (500 mg), making its storage and distribution easier, especially in areas where cold storage facilities are limited, such as tribal areas of India.
Sickle cell disease is a genetic blood disorder that causes serious health problems such as anemia and frequent pain, affecting millions of people worldwide, especially in India and Africa.
According to the 2011 Census, 8.6% of India’s population belongs to tribal communities, many of whom are disproportionately affected by SCDs.
Sanjeev Jain, Managing Director, Akms, said the patented formula will greatly benefit sickle cell patients in India and Africa. He emphasized the company’s commitment to providing affordable healthcare solutions and reducing dependence on imported medicines.
Sanjeev Jain said, “Our constant endeavour is to work on affordable medicines for orphans and reduce dependency on imported medicines, to ensure patient safety from rare diseases with timely and necessary treatment.”
The new Hydroxyurea Suspension offers flexible dosing based on body weight, making it particularly beneficial for children and teens.
Moreover, it will be available at a much lower price than the imported alternatives.
More information about sickle cell disease
In sickle cell disease, a person’s red blood cells are shaped like a “sickle” because of a genetic condition. Because of this, the blood cells cannot bend or flow easily throughout the body.
For treatment, doctors prescribe medications and other treatment options to control symptoms, which are lifelong. Most treatment options include pain-relieving medications, blood transfusions to treat anemia and prevent strokes, hydroxyurea, and sometimes bone marrow or stem cell transplants.