Gilead Sciences says it has reached a deal with several generic drugmakers to produce cheaper versions of its popular, expensive hepatitis C drug Sovaldi for use in developing countries.
Gilead says the India-based drugmakers will make a generic version of Sovaldi, also known as sofosbuvir, and another investigational drug for distribution in 91 countries.
Sovaldi hit the U.S. market late last year, and Gilead has taken criticism over the $1,000-per-pill price attached to the drug, which has been hailed as a breakthrough treatment. A full course of treatment can cost $84,000.
Gilead Sciences Inc. did not detail the price on the generic version of Sovaldi. The Indian companies will receive a technology transfer that helps them start production quickly. They also will pay sales royalties to Gilead.
