AstraZeneca India has introduced its C5 inhibitor, Eculizumab, marking a significant step in the treatment of rare, life-threatening conditions. The drug has received approval from the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) for use in Paroxysmal Nocturnal Hemoglobinuria (PNH) and atypical Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (aHUS) in both adults and children.
Originally developed by Alexion Pharmaceuticals, Eculizumab became part of AstraZeneca’s portfolio after its $39 billion acquisition of Alexion in 2021. The monoclonal antibody works by blocking the C5 protein, which is responsible for damaging blood cells and kidney tissues in conditions like PNH and aHUS.
Praveen Akkineni, Country President and Managing Director of AstraZeneca India, highlighted:
“The launch of Eculizumab as India’s first approved anti-complement therapy demonstrates our commitment to bringing innovative medicines at the earliest opportunity, especially where there is a high unmet medical need.”
In the United States, the drug is marketed under the brand name Soliris. While it has been a breakthrough therapy, it has also faced criticism for patent “evergreening” through incremental changes. Patent exclusivity for Eculizumab is expected to expire globally by 2027.