Bharat Serums and Vaccines Limited (BSV) has developed a novel formulation of Docetaxel (Taxotere®, marketed by Sanofi Aventis) which is free from surfactant Polysorbate-80. This formulation could potentially be a breakthrough in avoiding the fluid retention / hypersensitivity and extravasation reactions which are associated with Taxotere®. Initial preclinical studies have shown a higher safety and a superior Pharmacokinetic profile when compared to Taxotere®. Efficacy in tumor bearing mice has also been established for the newly developed formulation

Taxotere® is a branded formulation of Docetaxel and has limitations like hypersensitivity or allergic reactions due to the excipients used in the formulation. Taxotere® is one of the leading product used by Oncologists in Cancer Chemotherapy and is approved for treatment in breast cancer, non small-cell lung cancer, head and neck cancer, prostate cancer, gastric cancer. Taxotere® is marketed by Sanofi Aventis with global sales of more than 2.9 billion dollars.

BSV had earlier developed a novel liposomal formulation of doxorubicin for which it tied up with a leading Indian pharmaceutical company. Recently, BSV has entered into licensing agreement with a large European company for an anti infective product.

BSV is in exploratory discussions with pharmaceutical companies for collaboration in commercializing the Docetaxel novel formulation for various world wide markets.

Taxotere® is a registered trademark of Sanofi Aventis.

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