Zydus Lifesciences, Sun Pharma to co-market Desidustat for CKD patients in India

Zydus Lifesciences Limited and Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Limited have announced a licensing agreement for the co-marketing of Desidustat, an innovative oral anemia treatment for Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) patients in India. This partnership signifies a significant advancement in CKD anemia treatment, offering a more convenient oral pill form as opposed to traditional injectable therapies.

Licensing Agreement Details and Impact

Under the agreement terms, Zydus has granted Sun Pharma semi-exclusive rights to co-market Desidustat in India. Sun Pharma will market the drug under the brand name RYTSTAT, while Zydus, which launched the drug as Oxemia in 2022, will continue its marketing efforts. Additionally, Zydus is set to receive upfront licensing income and further milestone incomes based on the achievement of certain pre-defined goals.

Addressing a Major Healthcare Need in India

Over 115 million people in India suffer from CKD, and the condition is predicted to become a leading cause of premature death globally by 2040. CKD patients frequently suffer from chronic fatigue due to anemia, traditionally managed with injectable Erythropoiesis Stimulating Agents (ESAs) requiring bi-weekly administration. The spokesperson from Zydus Lifesciences highlighted Desidustat’s critical role in enhancing CKD patients’ quality of life by offering a more convenient, oral treatment option. Kirti Ganorkar, CEO – India Business, Sun Pharma, echoed these sentiments, noting the partnership’s goal of increasing access to this vital therapy for millions.

The Promise of Desidustat

Desidustat provides a groundbreaking oral therapeutic option for anemia treatment in CKD patients. The clinical development program for Desidustat in India, involving over 1200 subjects, was among the largest of its kind for anemia in CKD patients. This innovative drug, belonging to the HIF-PH inhibitor class, addresses a critical need for a safer, more convenient alternative to traditional ESAs. It offers the potential to reduce the disease management burden while providing an affordable and convenient treatment option.

The partnership between Zydus and Sun Pharma through the co-marketing of Desidustat underlines a significant step forward in addressing the complex healthcare needs of CKD patients in India. By providing an effective, oral medication option for anemia, this initiative marks a transformative approach in managing a challenging aspect of CKD, promising a better quality of life for patients.