India-based pharmaceutical firm Lupin has signed a licensing agreement with SteinCares to supply Lupin’s biosimilar ranibizumab in Latin America, except in Mexico and Argentina.
Under the agreement, SteinCares will be responsible for regulatory filings, registrations, and marketing of the biosimilar in the region, while Lupin will manage the manufacturing process.
Ranibizumab is a recombinant humanised IgG1 monoclonal antibody fragment that targets and inhibits vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A).
It is used to treat neovascular (Wet) age-related macular degeneration, macular oedema following retinal vein occlusion, diabetic macular oedema, diabetic retinopathy, and myopic choroidal neovascularisation.
SteinCares chief strategy officer Sebastián Katz said: “This partnership with Lupin strengthens our portfolio and further reinforces SteinCares’ position as a biosimilar powerhouse in Latin America.
“We have consistently been first to market products from highly regulated markets across several countries in the region.
“Our presence has translated into significant cost savings for healthcare institutions, driven by decades of experience and a deep understanding of Latin America’s healthcare landscape.”
Lupin offers a wide range of products, including branded and generic formulations, complex generics, biotechnology products, and active pharmaceutical ingredients.
With a presence in over 100 markets, the company has a significant market presence in India and the US, operates 15 manufacturing sites and seven research centres worldwide.
Lupin focuses on therapy areas such as respiratory, cardiovascular, anti-diabetic, anti-infective, gastrointestinal, central nervous system, and women’s health.
Last year, the Indian drugmaker sold its US Commercial Women’s Health Speciality Business to Evofem Biosciences for up to $84m.
Lupin’s Women’s Health Speciality business is primarily focused on the commercialisation of Solosec (secnidazole) oral granules.
Lupin biotechnology president Cyrus Karkaria said: “Our partnership with SteinCares underscores our commitment to providing innovative, high-quality healthcare solutions to patients in LATAM.
“Our intent is to transform the landscape of retinal care in Latin America, ensuring access to advanced therapies that improve the quality of life of patients.”
