Glenmark Pharmaceuticals, a renowned drug company, has announced its plan to launch a cancer treatment drug called zanubrutinib, also known as Brukinsa, in India. The drug has been approved by the Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) and will be used to treat five special B-cell malignancies, including chronic lymphocytic leukemia, Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia, mantle cell lymphoma, marginal zone lymphoma, and follicular lymphoma. This makes it the first and only Bruton’s tyrosine kinase (BTK) inhibitor to be legitimized in India for these treatments.
The drug has already been approved for use in over 60 countries, including major markets like the United States, China, the European Union, and Canada. Zanubrutinib works by blocking the action of unhealthy proteins that signal cancer cells to multiply, helping to stop the spread of cancer cells. It is classified as a tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) and specifically targets the protein Bruton’s tyrosine kinase, making it a Bruton tyrosine kinase inhibitor (BTKi).
Glenmark Pharmaceuticals has a history of innovative drug launches, including a medication for glycemic control and weight loss for diabetes patients, called Empagliflozin, under the brand name Glempa. The company has also launched fixed-dose combinations of Empagliflozin, which have been shown to improve glycemic control, aid in weight loss, and reduce cardiovascular outcomes in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.
The launch of zanubrutinib in India marks a significant milestone in Glenmark’s innovative oncology portfolio and offers patients in India access to a globally trusted therapy with proven efficacy and safety. Alok Malik, President and Business Head of Glenmark Pharmaceuticals, expressed the company’s enthusiasm for bringing Brukinsa to India, stating that it will be a significant addition to their innovative oncology portfolio.
The introduction of zanubrutinib in India is expected to change the face of cancer treatment in the country, offering new hope and possibilities for patients. With its proven efficacy and safety, the drug has the potential to make a significant impact on the lives of those affected by cancer. As Glenmark continues to innovate and expand its portfolio, the company remains committed to providing access to globally trusted therapies and improving the lives of patients in India and around the world.