SPMC launches locally-manufactured Clopidogrel

State Minister of Pharmaceutical Production, Supply and Regulation Prof. Channa Jayasumana inspecting the newly produced drug 

• Second drug launched under the ‘Aluth Ratata, Aluth Beheth’ program
• Country spends over Rs. 700 m annually to import drug
• SPMC to supply Clopidogrel 75mg for Rs. 2.10 per pill

The State Pharmaceuticals Manufacturing Corporation (SPMC) yesterday launched locally-manufactured Clopidogrel 75mg under the ‘Aluth Ratata, Aluth Beheth’ program.

Clopidogrel is an anti-platelet medication used to reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke in high-risk patients. This is the second medication produced under the program, with Gabapentin 300mg released to the market in September. The program aims at reducing health sector costs to import drugs to the country, by manufacturing required drugs within the country.

According to a statement issued by the Pharmaceutical Production, Supply and Regulation State Ministry, the State spends Rs. 317 million to import this particular drug annually, with the private sector spending Rs. 400 million. The SPMC will provide a pill for Rs. 2.10 to the Medical Supplies Division (MSD).

The Ministry added that a new drug will be launched on a monthly basis under the program, with a drug launched every two weeks next year.