Alembic Pharmaceuticals Ltd is expanding its branded specialty drugs portfolio in the US as part of a 'twin engine play' to boost growth as generic pricing pressure continues, according to CFO G. Krishnan. The drugmaker entered the branded segment in Q4 2025-26, launching Pivya in March to treat uncomplicated urinary tract infections in women. As reported by Mint, Krishnan stated the company intends to build this as a franchise with new branded product additions, focusing initially on strengthening the women's health segment before expanding into other therapeutic areas.
The US business accounts for 30% of total revenue and grew 13% year-on-year in 2025-26 to ₹2,206 crore. In Q4FY26, revenue from operations increased by 4% year-on-year to ₹1,848 crore, while net profit grew 29% to ₹203 crore. The company expects low double-digit to mid-teens growth in the US in 2026-27 as it scales up the branded business. According to Mint, Krishnan expects growth and scale of volumes to pick up in the next three to four quarters.
In 2024-25, the company acquired US-based Utility Therapeutics for $12 million, gaining exclusive commercial rights to Pivya (pivmecillinam) and another antibiotic, mecillinam. As reported by Mint, after the acquisition, the company worked on building a field force and launch plan, conducting a soft launch in February and now being present in almost 30 territories. The generics market has been facing continued pricing pressure from customer consolidation, weighing on companies' margins, making the strategic pivot necessary.
Alembic has demonstrated strong product development momentum with 33 new SKUs launched in FY23, of which 66% were in specialty therapies. During FY24, the company launched 27 new products, including 18 oncology, derma and ophthalmic products. The company established a subsidiary in Chile to gain a strong foothold in the large and growing Latin American markets, and opened a scientific office in the UAE to capitalize on opportunities emerging from the GCC nations. Recent developments include the launch of 16 new products in FY25, comprising 9 OSD, 2 Injectable, 2 Ophthalmic, and 3 Dermatology products.
The entry into branded drugs marks a strategic pivot for the generics drugmaker, with Krishnan emphasizing that while the company hopes to push into branded speciality drugs, its core generics business will continue to remain a priority. According to Mint, Krishnan noted that the pricing pressure is here to stay and the only way to respond is through innovation on processes and cost controls on the core business. The company's core generics business will serve as a 'twin engine' alongside the branded specialty drugs initiative, positioning Alembic for sustained growth in both segments.
