Intas Pharmaceuticals launches INTACEPT, the first etanercept biosimilar

The launch reduces the cost of treatment down to 50 per cent as compared top imported drug

Intas Pharmaceuticals have launched INTACEPT, the first biosimilar to Amgen’s Enbrel (etanercept). INTACEPT, Intas’ etanercept, has been launched in two strengths, 25 mg in 0.5 ml and 50 mg in 1.0 ml preservative free solution, in easy to use pre-filled syringes. INTACEPT is the first etanercept biosimilar manufactured in India and is indicated for rheumatoid arthritis, juvenile idiopathic arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis and plaque psoriasis, all debilitating autoimmune diseases.

Binish Chudgar, Vice-Chairman, Intas Pharmaceuticals said, “Etanercept is a fusion protein that is difficult to develop. INTACEPT is a further validation of our world-class R&D and manufacturing capabilities that bring global healthcare standards to Indian patients at a lower cost. Through INTACEPT, we are able to reduce the cost of treatment for patients to about half of the imported Enbrel.”

With the launch of INTACEPT, the company now has nine biosimilar products in the market, including one monoclonal antibody MABTAS (rituximab), the largest indigenously development portfolio of biosimilar products.

Binish ChudgarINTACEPTIntas Pharmaceuticals