Hyderabad, Oct. 17: BHARAT Biotech International Ltd (BBIL), the city-based bio pharmaceutical company, has announced the launch of recombinant streptokinase, the first line therapy for myocardial infarction (heart attack), making it the country's first and world's second manufacturer after a Cuban company.

Announcing the launch of product - Indikinase - in the presence of the South African President, Mr Thabo Mbeki, here on Friday, the BBIL Chairman and Managing Director, Dr Krishna Ella, said by manufacturing recombinant streptokinase indigenously, the company has not only ensured a high quality product but also offered life-saving drug to the needy in the country at a highly competitive price compared to the currently imported products.

Stating that the competitive pricing was possible because of the company's cutting-edge technology advantage and innovative R&D approach, Dr Ella, however, declined to disclose the price for strategic reasons for the time being.

According to Dr Ella, the recombinant streptokinase scores over its non-recombinant counterpart in many respects, the most significant one being able to prevent excessive bleeding compared to the existing products.

BBIL has conducted multi-centric clinical trials in various parts of the country for the product, which was duly approved by the National Regulatory Committees such as Genetic Engineering Approval Committee, Minstry of Environment & Forests, and the Drug Controller General of Indian (DCGI), he said.