BDR Pharmaceuticals has announced the launch of a first in India generic – Furmecil (popularly known as S-1 which is a combination of three drugs - Tegafur, Gimeracil & Oteracil). Furmecil is an oral drug, indicated in adults for the treatment of advanced gastric cancer, which has demonstrated high effectiveness with a favourable safety profile.

Furmecil will soon be available in the Indian market in the form of capsules in two strengths (Tegafur 15 mg + Gimeracil 4.35 mg + Oteracil 11.80 mg & Tegafur 20 mg + Gimeracil 5.80 mg + Oteracil 15.80 mg)

Commenting on the launch, Raheel Shah, Director, Business Development, BDR Pharmaceuticals said, “Our vision is to bring globally available and highly effective but expensive medicines to the Indian patients making them accessible at affordable prices, BDR Pharma, takes the lead to bring cost-effective treatment for gastric cancer in India as part of its latest pharmaceutical innovation. Our focused launch of such first time ever newly advanced molecule in the treatment of various cancer indications is testimony to our solid commitment to providing access to affordable medicines for Indian cancer patients with high quality standards without compromising patient’s safety”.

Gastric cancer remains one of the most important malignancies worldwide in terms of incidence and mortality. It is the fourth most common malignant disease and the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. The treatment consists of targeted molecules, a combination of local surgery and radiation therapy as well as systemic chemotherapy. The combination therapy with S-1 has been in progress to obtain a better survival benefit, lower cost and better quality of life as per Indian Journal of Medical and Paediatric Oncology.