In the current market scenario, investors in generic pharmaceutical companies are advised to adopt a cautious approach, with suggestions to consider an exit strategy for certain holdings in this sector. Vishal Manchanda, a Pharma Analyst at Systematix Group, has expressed this viewpoint, citing legal challenges faced by companies like Dr Reddys in the US.
A legal case has been filed against Dr Reddys and several other pharmaceutical companies under anti-trust legislation. The lawsuit, related to the generic cancer medication Revlimid, was initiated by Mayo Clinic and Lifepoint Corporate Services in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California. Revlimid, originally developed by Celgene and now a subsidiary of Bristol Myers Squibb (BMS), is utilized in the treatment of various blood cancer patients. BMS had agreements with several generic companies to distribute limited quantities of generic Revlimid in the United States from March 2022.
In light of these developments, Manchanda recommends considering an exit from certain generic pharmaceutical stocks, emphasizing that the risk-reward ratio is currently not favorable. This cautious stance is particularly relevant given the legal challenges and uncertainties surrounding generic pharmaceutical companies.
However, within the industry, Manchanda identifies Cipla as a favorable option. He expresses a preference for Sun and Cipla over other generic names, suggesting that these companies might be better-positioned in the current market conditions.
The pharmaceutical sector is dynamic, and legal challenges can significantly impact companies’ financial outlook. Investors are advised to stay informed about such developments and carefully assess their investment strategies based on the evolving landscape of the pharmaceutical industry.