Cipla Launches Ciplostem Cell Therapy for Knee Osteoarthritis

Cipla has introduced Ciplostem, an innovative cell-based therapy for Knee Osteoarthritis (OA), marking a major milestone in India’s orthobiologic treatment landscape. Approved by the Drug Controller General of India, the therapy provides a disease-modifying option for patients with Grade II and III OA and promises longer-lasting relief than conventional symptomatic treatments.

Breakthrough in Orthobiologic Medicine

Developed in partnership with Stempeutics Research, Ciplostem represents Cipla’s significant entry into advanced regenerative therapies. It aims to address the substantial unmet medical need in a country where millions suffer from progressive knee degeneration, often with limited treatment avenues that halt or slow disease progression.

Rising Burden of Knee Osteoarthritis

Knee OA affects more than 48 million people in India, with increasing incidence observed even among younger adults. Existing options such as analgesics, physiotherapy, and viscosupplementation typically offer only short-term relief. The lack of durable, disease-modifying interventions has created demand for therapies that can improve long-term mobility and reduce the reliance on surgical procedures.

Mechanism and Clinical Promise of Ciplostem

Ciplostem is administered as a single intra-articular injection that works at the cellular level. It reduces inflammation, alleviates pain, and helps preserve cartilage integrity, thereby enhancing joint mobility. Clinical studies indicate potential benefits lasting up to two years, positioning the therapy as a substantial advancement over routine pain-management strategies.

Exam Oriented Facts

• Ciplostem is developed by Stempeutics Research and marketed by Cipla.
• The therapy is approved for Grade II and III Knee Osteoarthritis.
• DCGI has authorised its clinical use in India.
• Benefits have been observed to last for up to two years.

Industry Outlook and Clinical Adoption

Cipla expects the therapy to integrate into routine clinical practice as a validated regenerative option for orthopaedic specialists. By offering sustained symptom relief and cartilage preservation, Ciplostem may reduce the need for invasive procedures and reshape treatment pathways for chronic knee degeneration in India.