HIV DRUG TO COST $1 PER DAY IN INDIA

U.S.-based drugmaker Gilead, which manufactures the HIV drug Viread, has announced the drug will soon be available in India for approximately $1 per day, compared with generic versions currently available for more than $1,200 per year.

The company has already entered into licensing deals with three Indian companies -- Emcure Pharmaceuticals, Hetero Drugs and Strides Arcolab -- for generic versions of the drug. These firms will distribute generic Viread to low-income countries.

It is believed that more than 5.1 million people are infected with HIV in India -- the second highest rate after South Africa. In African countries, the drug will be available at approximately 37 cents per day.

Viread (tenofovir disoproxil fumarate) is fast becoming an important new HIV drug due to its low toxicity and resistance levels. The once-a-day dosage of the drug also helps patients follow their treatment regimen.

Under the terms of the licensing agreements, the generic companies will be able to manufacture and market both the active particle ingredient and the tablets. In return, the drugmakers will pay Gilead a five percent royalty, which is much lower than standard royalty rates.