Ranbaxy Laboratories announced that it had signed a licensing agreement with Cipher Pharmaceuticals to exclusively market, sell and distribute Cipher's isotretinoin capsules in Brazil.

Commenting on the partnership, Mr Sanjeev I Dani, executive VP and head, global strategy, Ranbaxy, said, "We are pleased to take this novel formulation of Isotretinoin to the large market in Brazil. I am sure it would prove to be a valuable option for dermatologists and patients who suffer from severe recalcitrant nodular acne. We will utilize our strong front-end capabilities to ensure the availability of this product in Brazil."

Ranbaxy plans to promote the product through a brand dermatology division in Brazil. The isotretinoin formulation is expected to be a flagship product in Ranbaxy's dermatology franchise after it achieves regulatory approval.

Cipher's isotretinoin is a new formulation of isotretinoin, which is used in the treatment of severe recalcitrant nodular acne.