le groupe Saidal lance la fabrication d’un médicament pour le traitement du cancer
Summary of Saidal’s Innovative Cancer Drug Initiative
Saidal Group, a major pharmaceutical company in Algeria, has begun the production of an innovative cancer medication, known as "Pembrolizumab Saidal." This initiative was highlighted by the Minister of Pharmaceutical Industry, Ouacim Kouidri, during a recent event in Algiers. The drug has been available since the beginning of the year through the Central Pharmacy of Hospitals (PCH).
This announcement came shortly after the establishment of a joint working group between the Ministry and the Algerian Economic Renewal Council (CREA), co-chaired by Kouidri and CREA President Kamel Moula. The group’s aim is to address obstacles faced by investors and to support the realization of their projects.
Kouidri emphasized that Saidal successfully produced Pembrolizumab locally, making a significant dent in the cost typically associated with such treatments. He noted that 22,000 doses have already been sold. Additionally, Saidal is actively engaged in developing new anticancer medications, planning to launch six more production projects on top of four existing initiatives. This will add to their current repertoire of 24 available medications.
Mourad Belkhelfa, a scientific consultant at Saidal, elaborated that the local production of Pembrolizumab was done in collaboration with an international operator specializing in anticancer drugs. The medication is designed to treat various forms of cancer including lung, breast, and skin cancer. The production process occurs in phases at Saidal’s facility in Constantine, with the full transfer of technology from the foreign partner expected to be completed by the end of 2025.
Belkhelfa also highlighted that the group would conduct necessary clinical examinations prior to patient prescriptions, ensuring the drug’s efficacy. Importantly, local manufacturing is expected to reduce import expenses, and the drug has already demonstrated efficacy in Phase III clinical trials.
Key Details
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Production and Availability
- The "Pembrolizumab Saidal" medication was launched by Saidal Group and is available via the Central Pharmacy of Hospitals.
- 22,000 doses have already been sold since the beginning of the year.
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Regulatory Support and Collaboration
- A joint working group has been established between the Ministry of Pharmaceutical Industry and CREA to facilitate investment and project realization.
- The production of Pembrolizumab involves a partnership with an international operator specializing in anticancer medications.
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Future Prospects
- Saidal plans to introduce six new anticancer medication production projects.
- The company aims to enhance its current offerings, which already include 24 available cancer medications.
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Production Process
- The production of Pembrolizumab takes place at Saidal’s Constantine facility in phases, with technology transfer expected by the end of 2025.
- The company will conduct necessary clinical tests to ensure the drug meets efficacy standards.
- Financial Impact
- Local production is anticipated to lower costs previously associated with imports, thus benefiting the Algerian healthcare system.
In conclusion, Saidal Group’s initiative is a significant stride toward enhancing local pharmaceutical capabilities in Algeria, aiming for broader accessibility and reduced costs for cancer treatments while maintaining adherence to clinical efficacy standards.
