Iran Unveils First Locally-Made of Anti-Cancer Drug Vinorelbine
WANA (Jul 28) – In a major step toward pharmaceutical self-sufficiency, the CEO of a knowledge-based company operating in the Iran International Innovation Zone announced the successful domestic production of the anti-cancer drug Vinorelbine using advanced technology.
Saman Pourzia, CEO and co-founder of the pharmaceutical startup, revealed that the locally produced drug—marketed under the brand name Sanarelbin—has now entered mass production. Previously, the drug was available to Iranian patients solely through imports.
“The development of this anti-cancer drug took more than three years,” Pourzia said. “Given the lack of domestic production infrastructure, we established a dedicated manufacturing line for this product.”
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According to him, the imported version of the drug previously cost the country over $5 million in foreign currency annually—a cost now eliminated through local manufacturing.
Sanarelbin is currently available in specialized pharmacies, and Pourzia reports positive feedback from both oncologists and patients. “Our goal is to ensure equitable access to essential medicines and to reduce the financial burden on families coping with cancer treatment,” he emphasized.
Pourzia noted that the company, established in 2019 and based in the Azadi Innovation Factory (a branch of the Iran International Innovation Zone), has so far introduced more than eight advanced pharmaceutical products to the Iranian market.
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Looking ahead, the CEO announced plans to launch two new high-tech drugs in 2025, which would mark a first for the Iranian pharmaceutical industry. “This will be a significant step forward in advancing Iran’s drug manufacturing capabilities,” he said.
According to a statement from the Iran International Innovation Zone’s Public Relations Office, Pourzia also credited Pardis Technology Park and a local accelerator for their support. “With a focus on sustainable innovation and the relentless efforts of our expert team, we are taking lasting steps in the localization of vital medicines,” he concluded.
