HALIFAX, Aug. 25 /CNW/ - MedMira Inc., ("MedMira") (TSX Venture: MIR,
NASDAQ: MMIRF), a developer and marketer of rapid diagnostic technology and
solutions, announced today that it is expanding its product line with
strategic partner, Triplex International Biosciences Co., Ltd. (Triplex), in
Mainland China and Hong Kong. The partners are moving forward with SFDA
regulatory submissions and subsequent market launch for rapid tests under the
Multiplo brand including the HBV/HIV/HCV rapid test and combination tests for
HIV and syphilis and HIV and tuberculosis.
MedMira's rapid H. Pylori test, which detects a bacteria linked to the
development of stomach cancer, will also be submitted for approval and
launched into the market as part of this expanded distribution agreement.
Triplex is currently the exclusive distributor for MedMira's rapid HIV test in
this market.
MedMira has also developed, in collaboration with Triplex, the single and
multiple rapid tests for drugs of abuse such as amphetamines,
methamphetamines, morphine, barbital, benzodiazepine, cocaine, THC, and
ketamine. The multiple test can detect up to five of these drugs in just a few
drops of urine. These new products will answer the demand for faster, more
streamlined drug testing to combat the growing problem of drug abuse among the
youth population in Hong Kong and Mainland China. According sources in Hong
Kong, drug abuse among those under 21 has increased by 57% in the past four
years. Local authorities are stepping up efforts to reverse the trend and
battle the growing use of ketamine in particular, including random
school-based drug tests.
"Expanding our product line with Triplex at this time is a very good
opportunity for us to meet the increasing demand for advanced rapid
diagnostics for drugs of abuse and other initiatives being implemented as
China's new healthcare system takes shape," said Hermes Chan, CEO, MedMira
Inc. "Our world class diagnostics technology and applications together with
Triplex's local market knowledge, a well-established customer base, and access
to healthcare experts, will move MedMira's market presence in Mainland China
and Hong Kong forward."
Earlier this year the two companies established a strategic partnership
to distribute MedMira rapid tests through Triplex and explore other market
opportunities in China. Triplex is a major player in the China diagnostics
market, with recorded sales revenue of nearly USD $30 million last year.
"We are pleased to bring additional MedMira rapid tests to our customers
in Mainland China and Hong Kong.
