Nycomed may invest 35 million euros in Ukrainian production capacities

Independent Swiss drugmaker Nycomed is considering establishing its own high-tech production in Ukraine, according to recent statements of Eugene Zaika, chief executive of Nycomed Ukraine. Mr Zaika said that Nycomed is currently conducting a comprehensive assessment of the potential project, while the final decision is expected to be taken in fall this year.

If everything goes ahead, the new plant will probably focus on the production of Actovegin, a protein-free prescription product obtained from calf blood. Actovegin has been in clinical use for over 40 years and is  prescribed by hospital specialists and general practitioners in selected European markets, Russia and the CIS, China and South Korea. Actovegin is available as tablets, injections and infusions. Over-the-counter (OTC) formulations (cream, gel, ointment) are also available. Indications include disturbances in cerebral circulation (eg, cranio-cerebral traumas), peripheral blood flow (eg, arterial angiopathy), skin graftings, burns, scalds, abrasions, wound-healing impairment, and radiation-induced skin and mucous membrane lesions (prophylaxis and therapy).

Financial details of the project - as well production capacities of the plant - were not disclosed, however, according to some sources, the investments might be in the range of 30-35 mmillion euros ($43.7-$51.0 million).