(Reuters) - India's drug regulator has given Hetero Labs the green light to manufacture and market its generic version of Gilead Science's experimental COVID-19 treatment remdesivir, the Indian pharmaceutical company said on Sunday.
The drug, which will be marketed under the brand name Covifor, will likely be priced at 5,000 to 6,000 rupees ($66-$79) for a 100 milligram dose, Hetero said.
India's Cipla Ltd (NS:CIPL) has also received approval from the Drug Controller General of India (DGCI) to manufacture and market the drug, according to a report https:// in Indian Express.
Cipla and DGCI were not immediately available for comment.
Gilead Sciences Inc (O:GILD) signed non-exclusive licensing pacts last month with five generic drugmakers based in India and Pakistan to expand the supply of its COVID-19 treatment.
The pacts allow Jubilant Life Sciences Ltd (NS:JULS), Cipla, Hetero Labs, Mylan NV (O:MYL) and Ferozsons Laboratories Ltd (PSX:FERO) to make and sell the drug in 127 countries.