Lab in India's Telangana State Launches Emulsion-Based Drug for Black Fungus 'Epidemic'

An Indian biopharmaceutical manufacturer based in the Hyderabad city of Telangana state announced on Monday the launch of an Amphotericin B Emulsion for the treatment of Black Fungus, or Mucormycosis.

The launch of this alternative drug comes at a time when the number of Black Fungus cases is mounting across the country.

According to the company, the emulsion-based drug is set to provide a much-needed respite to patients reeling under the severe impact of the second wave of COVID-19 and the Black Fungus, which has been diagnosed in many Indians who have recovered from the coronavirus.

Celon Labs will reportedly manufacture 10,000 vials per day, which will ensure relief for approximately 6,000 patients monthly.

"Celon Labs is deeply committed to supporting the ongoing efforts to combat the Covid-19 pandemic during this deadly second wave and to save as many lives as possible. The emulsion-based formulation is an ideal alternative to Liposomal Amphotericin B to combat the Black Fungus. The company will start supplying the domestic market soon," said a Celon Labs managing director, M. Nagesh Kumar.

Last week, the Maharashtra state-based Genetic Life Sciences started manufacturing Amphotericin B Emulsion injections priced at INR 1,200 each (about $16). The office of a federal minister, Nitin Gadkari, also tweeted about this development, suggesting that it was due to his endeavours.

​India has reported over 12,000 Black Fungus cases so far. The Indian government earlier this month has instructed all states and union territories to declare the fungal infection an epidemic.