AstraZeneca Pharma India and Sun Pharmaceutical Industries have announced a new “second brand partnership” to co-market Sodium Zirconium Cyclosilicate (SZC) in India. Doctors widely use the therapy to treat hyperkalaemia, a high-potassium condition that commonly affects patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) and heart failure (HF).
Two Brands, One Goal: Wider Patient Reach
Under the agreement, both companies will promote, market, and distribute SZC in India under separate brand names.
*AstraZeneca will market the drug as Lokelma
*Sun Pharma will offer it as Gimliand
Although the companies did not disclose pricing details, AstraZeneca confirmed that it will retain intellectual property rights, hold the Marketing Authorisation, and maintain the import licence for the molecule.
Leadership Highlights the Importance of Collaboration
Praveen Rao Akkinepally, Country President and Managing Director, AstraZeneca Pharma India, said the partnership will help broaden access to this vital therapy across the country. Kirti Ganorkar, Managing Director, Sun Pharmaceutical Industries, emphasized that Sun Pharma remains committed to expanding access to innovative treatments that support healthcare providers and improve patient quality of life.
Hyperkalaemia: A Growing Concern in CKD and Heart Failure Patients
Hyperkalaemia is a serious medical condition that frequently affects individuals with CKD and heart failure, especially those receiving renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system (RAAS) inhibitor therapy, which can raise potassium levels.
According to company data:
*Up to 50% of CKD patients experience hyperkalaemia
*Around 42% of chronic HF patients are also affected
These high prevalence rates underscore the need for effective, accessible treatments like SZC.
Sun Pharma Brings Strong Commercial Capability
As reported by thehindubusinessline.com, as India’s largest pharmaceutical company, Sun Pharma supports the partnership with a 15,000-strong field force across chronic therapies and the acute care segment. This extensive network is expected to significantly enhance the therapy’s reach across healthcare settings.
