Alkem Laboratories has marked a major push into India's fast-growing gut-health segment.

 

The pharma company has rolled out the original De Simone formulation—one of the world’s most researched probiotic blends -- as digestive disorders rise and consumer awareness grows in this country.

 

Created by Italian microbiologist Prof Claudio De Simone, the proprietary blend combines eight synergistic bacterial strains designed to restore gut microbiota balance and support a wide range of gastrointestinal conditions. 

 

The formulation is backed by over 80 clinical trials and 200 scientific publications, and is recommended by leading gastroenterology bodies across the US and Europe. Alkem has in-licensed the technology from Next Gen Pharma India.

 

In a first for the Indian market, Alkem will offer the probiotic—branded DSS—in four strengths:

225 billion CFU sachet; 112.5 billion CFU capsule; 45 billion CFU capsule; and 10 billion CFU capsule.

 

The company is the only player to provide all four strengths and holds exclusive rights for the newly introduced 225 billion CFU and 10 billion CFU offerings.

 

The DSS blend features four Lactobacillus, three Bifidobacterium and one Streptococcus strain, all freeze-dried to maintain viability and deliver targeted clinical benefits. It is indicated for conditions including Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Ulcerative Colitis, Pouchitis, Hepatic Encephalopathy, NAFLD, cirrhosis, Bacterial Vaginosis, and Antibiotic-Associated Diarrhea, and is also recommended during pregnancy.

 

“With gut health becoming central to overall well-being, probiotics are emerging as a key therapeutic tool,” said Dr Vikas Gupta, CEO, Alkem. “Bringing DSS to India strengthens our gastrointestinal portfolio and reinforces our commitment to delivering evidence-based innovations to patients.”

 

India’s probiotic market is booming. According to IQVIA (MAT October 2025), the prescription probiotic segment is worth ₹2,071 crore and has clocked a 14% CAGR over the past five years.