Kopran gets US patent nod for new molecule

Drug major Kopran has received approval from the US patent office for its new chemical entity (NCE) - KNC-6 filed in September 2001.

KNC-6 is a novel dual action anti-ulcerant having significant anti-secretory and cytoprotective properties with quick onset of action.

The company has also filed patent application for KNC-6 in 30 other countries including Japan, Australia, Canada and the European countries.

KNC-6 is one of the NCEs identified by the company for focus besides KNC-1206, a laxative. The new molecules are in the pre-clinical stage.

The company said in a press release, "The company's drug discovery programme has been designed on a basic platform technology by using bioactive polymers. The process patent for this technology has been filed under the Paris Convention Treaty."

The company's research & development activities are undertaken through its 100 per cent subsidiary Kopran Research.

The company's R&D is focussed on NCEs, dosage forms, biotechnology and synthesis and has filed for 20 process patents and 4 product patents.

Kopran is also looking at various opportunities including strategic collaboration and out-licensing of the NCEs with foreign partners.

Kopran, a leading amoxycillin producer, has enhanced its focus on formulations and over-the-counter products.

The company's exports focus has also been sharpened. It has been affected by the continuous fall in prices due to increased competition in the bulk drugs segment.

The therapeutic segments where the company has a presence include cardiovascular, antibiotics, pain management, gastrointestinal and respiratory.

The company's leading products include Aten (anti-hypertensive), Vent (anti-asthmatic), Tini (anti-amoebic) and Lokit (anti-ulcer).