IPCA Laboratories, a leading pharmaceutical company, has recently introduced Diulcus, a topical treatment specifically designed to address diabetic foot ulcers (DFU). This new drug is poised to make a significant impact in the medical field, targeting a Rs 100 crore market within the next three years. With a 77.20 per cent ulcer closure rate demonstrated in clinical trials, Diulcus offers hope for individuals suffering from DFU, a condition that often leads to severe outcomes like lower limb amputations.
Developed by NovaLead Pharma, Diulcus is a gel ointment priced at Rs 1,365 for a 15-gram tube. A complete treatment course typically requires 6-7 tubes, lasting between 12 and 24 weeks. Notably, the government subsidizes 20 per cent of the cost, making this treatment more accessible to patients in need. The drug has received approval from the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) and was partially funded by the Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC).
India is facing a growing diabetes epidemic, with an estimated 10 crore individuals currently diagnosed and another 13.6 crore affected by pre-diabetes. Diabetic foot ulcers, a common complication of diabetes, affect around 15 per cent of diabetic patients in India and lead to approximately 100,000 foot amputations annually. The launch of Diulcus comes at a critical time, offering a promising solution to address this pressing issue.
Clinical trial data has shown the efficacy of Diulcus, with a 60.3 per cent ulcer closure rate within three months of treatment, increasing to 77.20 per cent after six months, even after discontinuing treatment at three months. This level of efficacy is among the best observed globally for DFU treatment, highlighting the potential impact of Diulcus in improving patient outcomes.
Premchand Godha, executive chairman of IPCA Laboratories, expressed confidence in the product, stating, „With over 15 per cent of diabetic patients experiencing DFU at least once in their lifetime, this condition is the leading cause of lower limb amputations worldwide. The launch of Diulcus represents a significant advancement in DFU management.“ IPCA Laboratories is dedicated to addressing the unmet medical needs of diabetic patients and believes that Diulcus will play a crucial role in preventing amputations and enhancing the quality of life for patients.
The distribution of Diulcus will be facilitated through IPCA’s extensive network, focusing on the 2,000 doctors specializing in diabetes treatment across India. This strategic approach aims to ensure that Diulcus reaches those who can benefit most from this innovative treatment.
In conclusion, the introduction of Diulcus by IPCA Laboratories marks a significant milestone in the management of diabetic foot ulcers. With its high efficacy rate, government subsidy, and strategic distribution plan, Diulcus has the potential to transform the lives of individuals affected by DFU and reduce the burden of lower limb amputations in India.