THE government may cap the retail price of anti-viral drug oseltamivir used for the treatment of swine flu if market competition does not force the price down, a senior official in the ministry of chemicals and fertilizers said.

GlaxoSmithKline Pharmaceuticals (GSK) recently cut a deal with the Brazilian government, which allows it to supply a 10-valent vaccine against childhood pneumonia and other life-threatening infections for a decade at a fixed price in a reflection of the growing importance of vaccines and emerging markets to Big Pharma.

Technical Expert Group On Drug Patent Head Says Conclusion Independent View Of The Panel
Khomba Singh NEW DELHI

Teena Thacker

With the government planning to introduce H1N1 vaccine by December this year, a crucial meeting to discuss the scientific rationale related to the new vaccine will be held between health experts and manufacturers on October 13.

Move Part Of Probe On Drug Units Which Delay Launch Of Generics
Our Bureau NEW DELHI

INDIA

US Pharmacists Add Cherry Syrup To Drug Content To Make Their Own Version For Kids

Parents usually try to steer their children away from ingredients like sugar and artificial cherry flavoring. But this fall, those pedestrian food additives might help treat some children stricken with the flu.

THE logic in favour of purchases of vaccine firms seems irrefutable. The world is in the grip of a swine-flu pandemic, which will probably infect 40% or more of the human race. Vaccines are likely to be in demand for some time. And the vaccine business has high barriers to entry and, in recent years, attractive margins.

IT

Buys US rights for Oscient Pharma's Antara.

Pharmaceutical major Lupin has acquired the US rights for a cholesterol lowering drug, Antara (Fenofibrate capsules, 43 mg and 130 mg), from bankrupt US drug company Oscient Pharmaceuticals for close to $39 million (Rs 188 crore).

For most of us, Goa stands for fun and frolic, but there is a lot more to India's smallest state than its tropical beaches and casinos. While a coastline of almost 30 km helps the state attract over 2.5 million tourists a year, the state also has thriving industrial and mining activities.

Goa has utilised its tourism potential and resource base.