Dr Reddy's enters branded consumer health arena in USA

India’s second largest drugmaker Dr Reddy’s Laboratories (BSE: 500124) says it has acquired a portfolio of over-the-counter (OTC) brands in the cough-and-cold, pain, and dermatology categories from USA-based Ducere Pharma for an undisclosed amount.

The brands being acquired are Doan's, Bufferin, Nupercainal ointment, Cruex nail gel, Comtrex and Myoflex. These are mainly used in treating cough-and-cold, pain and dermatology issues, which will lead to Dr Reddy’s entry into the lucrative US OTC market.

“These legacy products enjoy strong brand equity built over several decades,” explains Alok Sonig, executive vice president and dead of Dr Reddy’s in the USA, adding: “We are extremely excited to be entering the branded consumer health arena through these brands and embarking upon the next avenue of growth for our OTC business in the US.”