Ponatinib is an advanced drug recommended in the treatment of chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) and Philadelphia chromosome positive acute lymphoblastic leukemia (Ph+ALL). This is approved by US FDA and EU EMA. The brand name is Iclusig which was also given the Orphan Drug designation in 2010. Because of its significance in the treatment of replaced or resistant cases, Ponatinib is often preferred after using drugs like Imatinib. This drug was developed by ARIAD Pharmaceuticals which is now taken over by another company called Takeda.

The specific recommendations of Ponatinib in India include for the management of specific conditions like CML and Ph+ve ALL. These are well known Haematological malignancies and experts in India choose this drug for its targeted mechanism of action. Available as Iclusig 45mg and Iclusig 15mg, this drug is commercially accessed from US and Europe. Iclusig in India is accessed from various other regions including Hong Kong and Turkey.

Regulatory approvals for speciality drugs are given after thorough evaluation of clinical studies and data presented by the investigators. Even though there were some setbacks to this drug due to Black Box Warning, Ponatinib was gained full approval by FDA in 2016. CML patients are predominately benefited because of Ponatinib India access. There are three phases of CML, they include chronic, accelerated and blast phases. Iclusig India through NPS provisions benefit patients to experience better treatment outcomes.