Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories has launched Hevaxin, a novel recombinant vaccine for the prevention of Hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection in India. This vaccine is the only one approved by the Drug Controller General of India (DCGI) for active immunization against HEV infection in adults aged 18 to 65 years. Clinical studies have shown that Hevaxin provides long-lasting immunity and has a favorable safety and tolerability profile.
Hepatitis E is a significant public health concern in India, causing a substantial proportion of acute viral hepatitis and acute liver failure cases. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that the infection affects around 20 million people globally each year, resulting in 3.4 million symptomatic cases, 70,000 deaths, and 3,000 stillbirths. In India, the disease burden is particularly high among vulnerable groups such as women of childbearing age, individuals with chronic liver disease, immunocompromised patients, and those preparing for organ transplantation.
The launch of Hevaxin addresses a critical unmet need for patients at high risk of severe outcomes, including acute-on-chronic liver failure and high fatality rates. Dr. Reddy’s aims to provide a first-in-class preventive option and support the National Viral Hepatitis Control Programme, which seeks to reduce the morbidity and mortality associated with Hepatitis E in India. The company has partnered with Shenzhen Mellow Hope Pharm and Urihk Pharmaceutical for the marketing and distribution of Hevaxin in the domestic market.
The launch of Hevaxin aligns with national efforts to reduce the burden of hepatitis A and E, as well as ambitious targets for hepatitis B and C elimination by 2030. According to M.V. Ramana, CEO of Branded Markets (India and Emerging Markets) at Dr. Reddy’s, the introduction of Hevaxin will provide a critical tool in the fight against Hepatitis E in India. With its favorable safety profile and long-lasting immunity, Hevaxin has the potential to make a significant impact on public health in India and support the country’s efforts to control and eliminate hepatitis.