Akums Drugs and Pharmaceuticals, India's largest Contract Development and Manufacturing Organization (CDMO), has launched a room temperature-stable oral suspension of Hydroxyurea which is designed to manage Sickle Cell Disease (SCD).

This new medication eliminates the need for cold storage, making it more accessible and affordable for SCD patients across India.

SCD, a genetic blood disorder, profoundly impacts individuals, causing anemia, pain crises, and affecting vital organs. It is particularly prevalent in India's tribal populations.

Sanjeev Jain, Joint Managing Director of Akums Drugs and Pharmaceuticals, expressed, "Akums is passionately committed to advancing a noble cause and ensuring accessibility to [affordable] medication for SCD patients. In alignment with the objectives outlined in the National Sickle Cell Anemia Mission, Akums pledges to provide this innovative medicine at an affordable cost."

Sandeep Jain, Joint Managing Director of Akums Drugs and Pharmaceuticals, affirmed, "We are dedicated to supporting the 'Make in India' initiative by researching high-quality pharmaceuticals. We aspire to make available the Hydroxyurea Oral Suspension, manufactured at a dedicated facility, to the government at less than 1% of the cost of the global brand imported in India, ensuring equitable access to life-saving medication for all SCD patients."

This product has received regulatory approval from the Drug Controller General of India (DCGI) following rigorous review and bioequivalence studies, marking a significant milestone in Akums' commitment to Quality medicine for India and globally.

In contrast to the current import price of approximately INR 77,000 for the global brand of Hydroxyurea solution, which necessitates storage at 2 to 8 degrees Celsius, Akums has innovated a room temperature stable oral suspension of Hydroxyurea suitable for Indian patients’ requirements.