Timed - Release Drugs Effective :

Research and development is being given more importance in the pharmaceutical industry, thanks to the intellectual property rights advocated by the World Trade Organisation. With literally no geographical boundaries for trade, companies are focusing on developing intrinsic strengths to be successful in the global markets. Companies have shifted their focus on research to innovate for a better future. Timetech Formulations Ltd has decided to take has been pioneering new drug delivery systems. In just six years, Timetech has established strong presence in the market with its timed-release formulations. Its products comprise of various formulations like cardio protective drugs, anti-diabetic and psychiatric drugs, anti-allergies, anti-ulcerants, anti-bacterials, antibiotics, etc.

G.N.Raju, managing director of Timetech, says there are many companies developing drugs and formulations in the State, but the company's timed-release formulations help reduce the dosages to the patients, thereby reducing the cost.

Drug delivery is based on the science of pharmacokinetics and low toxicity. Raju says drug delivery has now come to be recognised as a means of optimising therapy with established drugs and enhance the no-availability. It can also enhance the therapeutic index of drugs. The novel drug delivery system is beneficial for the patients, healthcare providers as well as the pharmaceutical companies. For the patient, the system renders increased efficacy, simplicity, safety compliance and comfort. Timetech develops timed-release drugs, using the polymer technology. Under this technology, the peak plasma levels are not allowed to exceed the therapeutic range. This reduces adverse effects on the patient. The system is also capable of preventing high localised concentration of a drug, thereby minimising gastric irritation.

The new drug delivery system maintains the blood levels in the therapeutic range and effectively manages the disease condition. Raju set up the company with an initial investment of around Rs 10 lakh and he has been continuously investing year after year. Timetech reached new heights by establishing the products in global market with a specific reference to timed release formulations and blended pellets. Raju says this is solely due to the world class quality of the company's products and dedicated efforts of the employees.

The company recently unveiled a facility with a built-up area of 21,000 square feet and is on its way to earn the coveted ISO 9002 quality certification.

Raju says the processes are being streamlined in order tobe eligible for the World Health-Organisation's (WHO) Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) standards certification. The company recently initiated its research activity and has already achieved remarkable results.

Timetech launched a timed-release kit with the composition of iron, vitamin C in SR form with folic acid and zinc (SR Form) with B complex. This, according to Raju, is the first-of-its-kind in India. He says the company will leverage its research and development facility to produce timed-release formulations for various ailments and expand its reach in the global market.

"We are the first company in the small-scale sector to foray into research and development activity", says Raju. Timetech plans to focus on developing timed-release drugs for diabetes. Raju says a timed-release formulation for diabetes will help treating millions of people suffering from the disorder.

The company has two sister concerns - Spantech and Nutraids. Spantech innovates blended pellets for national and international markets, while Nutraids specialises in food supplements. Timetech will utilise the capabilities of Spantech to deliver fully integrated drug delivery system solutions, including formulation and development studies, clinical and pharmacokinetics testing, product registration and manufacturing.Timetech has put in place all the required procedures and processes to maintain the quality standards. The company uses the best available resources, good product design, validated processes and effective quality assurance team to ensure consistently high quality products.

It has an in-built quality assurance system right from the raw material stage to the process of manufacturing, besides closely monitoring the drug release pattern of each batch.

The company's primary aim of quality programme is at guaranteeing its customers a consistent degree of satisfaction with its products and the related services. Raju says the secret of Timetech's success is the advantages of being an independent decision maker. "We are a small unit and can decide fast. This makes business easy and transparent", he says.