Bajaj Healthcare Limited has made headlines by receiving approval from the Drug Controller General of India (DCGI) to manufacture Pimavanserin, an atypical antipsychotic aimed at treating hallucinations and delusions associated with Parkinson's disease psychosis. This 34 mg capsule, marketed globally as NUPLAZID, has significant standing in the U.S. antipsychotic market, with Acadia Pharmaceuticals projecting over $1 billion in net sales by 2025.
According to Anil Jain, Managing Director of Bajaj Healthcare, “The approval marks a major milestone for Bajaj Healthcare. The growing success of NUPLAZID in the US underlines the global demand for this innovative therapy.” His enthusiasm about the drug's introduction to India reflects the company’s commitment to advance healthcare solutions. They plan to assure quality production to meet international standards, solidifying their role within the central nervous system (CNS) segment.
While advancements like Pimavanserin shine hope on the treatment front, the rising number of Parkinson's disease diagnoses, estimated at 1 in 37 people, presents substantial challenges globally. The conditions are dire; especially in regions with limited healthcare access, such as parts of Africa where neurology specialists are scarce, particularly outside the private healthcare sphere.
Parkinson's ZA, spearheaded by Rakesh Harribhai, offers additional efforts to address the impact of Parkinson's on communities. Established with the goal of improving lives affected by Parkinson’s disease, the organization focuses on reducing social isolation and encouraging physical activity. Harribhai began this important work inspired by his mother’s experience with the disease.
“We have seen great improvements in social confidence and mobility through the program,” Harribhai remarked, highlighting the activities employed — like table tennis and community outings — aimed at creating supportive environments.
Despite their strong intentions, the organization faces unique challenges. South Africa's healthcare system grapples with stigma associated with Parkinson's, such as misinterpretations linking the disease to witchcraft. Organizations like Parkinson's ZA are actively trying to counter this stigma and encourage early diagnosis and treatment through education and community-building efforts.
The organization's roots lay deeply intertwined with efforts to adapt effective support models from other countries, focusing on independence and improved health via physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and exercises aimed at personal care and mobility. Parkinson's ZA initiated its programs two years ago and is now rapidly planning expansion to additional cities: Cape Town, Johannesburg, and launching support endeavors as far as Pretoria East.
Harribhai's passionate advocacy points to the need for enhanced awareness surrounding Parkinson’s within communities. “There’s definitely hope as we build these connections,” he stated, showing optimism for the evolution of support networks available to South Africans living with this condition.
With the combination of advanced treatments like Pimavanserin and grassroots efforts from organizations like Parkinson’s ZA, the future for individuals with Parkinson's disease appears brighter. With greater awareness, expanded initiatives, and supportive therapies becoming increasingly accessible, there’s potential to make real improvements to the quality of life for countless affected by Parkinson's.