Cipla launches Antiflu to combat flu pandemic

Cipla Ltd. announced that it has launched Oseltamivir under the brand name Antiflu to combat the flu pandemic. The only drug from India to be pre-qualified by the World Health Organisation (WHO), Antiflu would be sold under Schedule X category, like Virenza (Zanamivir), Cipla said in a statement. Antiflu and Virenza directly target the virus and block its replication. Best results are seen if the medicines are taken within 48 hours of the symptoms being visible. Clinical trials suggest that the drugs reduce suffering considerably and time usage also lowers chances of other health complications, Cipla said. Antiflu will be available both in capsules (10 Nos) and liquid form (75 ml) and will be priced at Rs485. Virenza (20 capsules) will be retailed at Rs800. As of now 800 chemists across India have got the special license to retail the drugs made by Cipla. This includes 25-30 chemists in Mumbai. The number is likely to go up as more chemists apply for the license to sell these drugs.