Zydus Cadila gains on launching Ujvira, a novel breast cancer treatment drug.

Zydus Cadila, a leading pharmaceutical company, announced this morning the launch of Trastuzumab Emtansine, the first Antibody Drug Conjugate (ADC) under the brand name of ‘Ujvira’.  

 ‘Ujvira’ is a biosimilar and a highly effective drug that can be used for treating both early and advanced HER2 positive breast cancer. The novel formulation is a significant breakthrough in the treatment of HER2 breast cancer which is considered to be aggressive and constitutes 20 to 25 per cent of all breast cancers.  

The formulation is available in two strengths of 100 mg and 160 mg. The price of existing Trastuzumab Emtansine drug stands at Rs. 1,59,225 for a 100 mg vial. On the other hand, the price of ‘Ujvira’ stands at Rs 32,495 for the same strength. This brings down the cost of treatment by almost 80 per cent and makes it much more affordable. 

 Thus, the launch bridges the need of availing the therapy of Trastuzumab Emtansine drug and high cost of it which poses a barrier for patients seeking it. 

Reacting to this development, the share price of Cadila Healthcare Limited was trading at Rs 626.75 on BSE, which was an increase of 2.30 per cent over the previous closing price of Rs 612.65 on Friday.