E-DRUG: CIPLA applies for AZT compulsory license in S.Africa
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[copied as fair use from Cape Times, a SA newspaper; WB]
http://www.iol.co.za/news/sa_newsview.php3?click_id=13&art_id=ct19991
2 01233709222M32541&set_id=1
1 December 1999
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In the meantime local generic manufacturer Cipla Medpro has started
the process to apply for licences to produce Aids drugs in South
Africa.
"We're not the Salvation Army, we are here to make a profit," said
Cipla's Jerome Smith, "but we know we can sell these drugs
significantly cheaper than they are available right now."
He said his company was able to manufacture not just the
antiretroviral treatments but also the everyday medications to treat
Aid-related diseases at reduced rates.
Cipla believes it can offer AZT for R1,64 a tablet, compared to Glaxo
Wellcome's discounted price of R2,45.
Glaxo Wellcome spokesperson Vicki Ehrich said on Wednesday her
company would challenge Cipla's licence application.
She said Glaxo had now offered to provide the drug to the government
for R2 a tablet. This represents a further discount on the existing 70
percent discount.
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