Zydus Lifesciences Ltd., an innovation-led global life sciences company, has announced the launch of Anyra™, India’s first indigenously developed biosimilar of Aflibercept 2 mg. The company has also signed an agreement with Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc. and Bayer in connection with the product.
Anyra™ is indicated for the treatment of neovascular (wet) Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD), visual impairment due to macular edema secondary to Retinal Vein Occlusion, including Branch RVO and Central RVO, visual impairment due to Diabetic Macular Edema (DME), Diabetic Retinopathy (DR), and Myopic Choroidal Neovascularization (mCNV). These chronic retinal conditions require timely anti-VEGF therapy to prevent irreversible vision loss and long-term complications.
India is home to more than 100 million people living with diabetes, making it one of the largest diabetic populations in the world. Diabetic Retinopathy affects an estimated 7–8 million individuals, many of whom progress to vision-threatening stages such as DME. Wet AMD impacts nearly 1.5–2 million elderly patients, while Retinal Vein Occlusions affect more than 2 million individuals. Collectively, these conditions represent a large patient pool in need of sustained retinal therapy.
As chronic retinal diseases typically require repeated intravitreal injections over extended periods, affordability and continuity of care remain key challenges. Improved access to biosimilar anti-VEGF therapies can significantly enhance treatment adherence, reduce preventable blindness, and lower the long-term disease burden on both patients and healthcare systems.
Commenting on the launch, Dr. Sharvil P. Patel, Managing Director of Zydus Lifesciences Ltd., stated that the introduction of Anyra™ marks a significant step toward expanding access to advanced biologics in India. The company continues to focus on delivering high-quality, affordable therapies through indigenous research, scientific innovation, and patient-centric healthcare solutions.
Zydus currently holds India’s largest biosimilar portfolio, with more than 13 biosimilars and complex biologic molecules developed and manufactured entirely in the country. The company has established end-to-end capabilities across biologics development, from cell line research and process engineering to clinical trials, manufacturing, and regulatory approvals. The launch of Anyra™ further strengthens its position in the ophthalmology and biosimilars segment while reinforcing its commitment to advancing retinal care in India.