Bajaj Healthcare Limited (BHL)has announced the launch of API and Formulation of "DGJAJ" (2-Deoxy-D-Glucose), an antiviral drug used for treating Covid-19 patients, in collaboration with the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). BHL had received a license agreement from DRDO in July, to manufacture and market 2-Deoxy-D-Glucose (2-DG).

2-Deoxy-D-glucose (2-DG) is a glucose analogue, which has the 2-hydroxyl group replaced by hydrogen. 2-DG is transported in cells by the glucose transporters on the cell membrane but it cannot undergo further glycolysis and act as an inhibitor of glycolysis. Therefore, cells with higher glucose uptake, for example, tumour cells, virally infected cells, inflammatory cells have also a higher uptake of 2-DG. Since it accumulates selectively more in such cells with high glucose demand; it offers an attractive approach of inhibiting tumour cell growth, viral infection and inflammation.

2-Deoxy-D-Glucose (2-DG) helps in the faster recovery of hospitalised patients and reduces supplemental oxygen dependence. The drug works by selectively accumulating in the virus-infected cells and prevents virus growth by stopping viral synthesis and energy production. It can be administered only upon prescription and under the supervision of a qualified physician to hospitalised moderate to severe Covid-19 patients as an adjunct therapy to the existing standard of care.

The drug comes in powder form in a sachet, which is taken orally by dissolving it in water. Its selective accumulation in virally infected cells makes this drug unique.

Commenting on the announcement, Anil Jain, Joint Managing Director, Bajaj Healthcare said "We are pleased to commence the production of 2-Deoxy-D-Glucose under our brand name "DGJAJ", after receiving a license from DRDO. We are quite delighted to add yet another product to our product portfolio. This product will further help us in growing our formulation business.’’

He further adds, ``Health experts anticipate the third wave of Covid-19, which may be even more severe as the virus has undergone several mutations over the time. We hope the availability of an effective treatment such as 2-Deoxy-D-Glucose (2-DG) will offer patients with much needed and timely therapy options. Most patients ailing from moderate to severe symptoms can benefit from the use of 2-Deoxy-D-Glucose."