Strides' generic oseltamivir receives WHO prequalification for treatment of H1N1

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has prequalified Strides Arcolab's generic version of Oseltamivir (75 mg capsules)  for treatment of H1N1. Strides is the second company globally to receive WHO prequalification for generic Oseltamivir, the company said in a filing with the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE).

Oseltamivir is manufactured at Strides' UFDA-approved and WHO-qualified oral dosage forms manufacturing and R&D facility in Bangalore. The product is available in the Indian market under the brand name `Starflu.'

WHO's prequalification programme, a United Nation's initiative, aims at making quality drugs affordable universally. The world body prequalifies medicines based on evaluation of data relating to quality, safety and efficacy as well as inspection of manufacturing practices, clinical sites etc. 

Strides, which started supply of Oseltamivir in 2009, is an approved supplier to the Government of India. The company also exports the drug to other countries.

Strides said it has a ready stock of tablets enough for 1.5 million treatments in case of a global emergency.

Strides has 14 manufacturing facilities across 6 countries and has a presence in 75 developed and emerging markets.