Alkem Laboratories signs licensing agreement with Takeda to launch Vonoprazan in India

New Delhi: Alkem Laboratories Ltd. has entered into a non-exclusive patent license agreement with Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Ltd. to commercialize the novel drug Vonoprazan in India. Vonoprazan, a first-in-class potassium-competitive acid blocker (P-CAB), will be available under the brand name “Vonzai” in 20 mg and 10 mg oral tablet forms.

Vonoprazan, developed by Takeda, is a breakthrough in treating gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and related conditions. Unlike traditional proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), Vonoprazan offers a novel mechanism of action by inhibiting H+,K+-ATPase in a potassium-competitive and reversible manner, leading to enhanced gastric acid suppression.

In India, Vonoprazan is indicated for the treatment of reflux esophagitis, gastric ulcers, duodenal ulcers, and the prevention of ulcer recurrence in patients using low-dose aspirin or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Additionally, it serves as an adjunct therapy in H. pylori eradication.

Dr. Vikas Gupta, CEO of Alkem Laboratories, expressed,  “Alkem has a formidable presence in the gastrointestinal segment and this non-exclusive patent license with Takeda will help us offer a product with novel mechanism of action for a large number of patients in India who are suffering from gastro-related ailments.”