Zydus Group has strengthens its derma portfolio with the acquisition of Melgain, used for the treatment of vitiligo, from Hyderabad-based Issar Pharma for an undisclosed amount. By adding Melgain to its product portfolio, Zydus intends to make the treatment more affordable for the patients who are afflicted with this disfiguring skin disorder in the prime of their youth.

• In India, Melgain will be marketed by Liva Healthcare, a specialty division of the group catering to the dermatological segment. Zydus also has an option to launch this product in other global markets where it is not available.

• Melgain is used for the treatment of vitiligo, a chronic skin condition characterised by portions of the skin losing their pigment. It occurs when skin pigment cells die or are unable to function. Nearly 15-20 million people in India are estimated to be suffering this condition.

• Zydus is currently a leading player in the skin de-pigmentation segment and the acquisition of Melgain marks its foray into the re-pigmentation segment. “Dermatology has been a core focus segment and we have been working with the medical fraternity to serve patient needs better. I believe that this acquisition will strengthen our portfolio of derma brands and will leverage our equity in this key segment,” said Dr Sharvil P Patel, deputy managing director, Zydus Group.

• With a strong presence in the hyperpigmentation, acne, hair care and ant-fungal segments, the expansion into the re-pigmentation segment will strengthen Zydus position in the fast growing dermatology market, which is currently growing at 14 percent and valued at over Rs 6,000 crores.