INDIA—GlaxoSmithKline Pharmaceuticals (GSK), India’s second-largest pharmaceutical company, has announced its ambitious plans to expand into the oncology market with the launch of two high-value therapies: Zejula (niraparib) and Jemperli (dostarlimab).
This strategic shift reflects GSK’s move beyond its traditional focus on general medicine, aligning with a broader global trend where major pharmaceutical companies are stepping back from conventional generic portfolios to focus on innovation-led therapies.
During an exclusive interview with The Times of India, Managing Director Bhushan Akshikar shared GSK’s vision as the company marks 100 years in India.
Akshikar highlighted that GSK has already secured marketing authorization for its oncology treatments: Zejula, designed for the maintenance treatment of ovarian cancer, and Jemperli, aimed at the second-line treatment of endometrial cancer.
These therapies represent GSK’s first significant venture into India’s oncology sector, signaling its growing commitment to providing high-impact, specialized treatments.
While GSK is broadening its presence in oncology, it continues to maintain a strong foothold in the Indian vaccine market.
The company offers a comprehensive range of pediatric vaccines, including Infanrix Hexa, Havrix, Varilrix, Menveo, Boostrix, and Fluarix.
Despite its oncology expansion, Akshikar emphasized GSK’s dedication to its core mission of delivering large-scale innovation.
GSK’s longstanding general medicine portfolio, which includes household names like Calpol for fever, Augmentin for infections, and Betnovate for dermatological conditions, continues to contribute to the health of millions of Indians.
However, GSK’s renewed focus on becoming a global biopharma leader has modernized its product offerings in India.
According to Akshikar, growth is now largely driven by innovation, with newer therapies such as Nucala (mepolizumab), a monoclonal antibody for respiratory conditions, contributing significantly to sales.
Launched several years ago, Nucala, alongside the respiratory therapy Trelegy (fluticasone furoate/umeclidinium bromide/vilanterol) and the herpes zoster vaccine Shingrix, has boosted GSK’s presence in the specialty drugs market.
Combined sales of Nucala, Trelegy, and Shingrix exceeded US$13.1 million over the past year, showcasing the success of GSK’s strategy to bring cutting-edge treatments to India.
Furthermore, GSK plans to expand its vaccine offerings beyond pediatric immunizations by introducing more adult vaccines.
This shift signifies the company’s efforts to transition to a more comprehensive preventive healthcare approach, catering to all age groups.
On the pricing front, GSK has implemented tiered pricing models in India, ensuring its products remain accessible while adhering to high-quality standards comparable to global benchmarks.
Additionally, GSK is leveraging digital solutions to enhance its market reach, with Akshikar pointed out that the company has developed an omnichannel strategy as part of a broader digital acceleration initiative, ensuring GSK remains competitive in the evolving pharmaceutical landscape.
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