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Last Updated: December 19, 2025

Suppliers and packagers for equetro


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equetro

Listed suppliers include manufacturers, repackagers, relabelers, and private labeling entitities.

Applicant Tradename Generic Name Dosage NDA NDA/ANDA Supplier Package Code Package Marketing Start
Validus Pharms EQUETRO carbamazepine CAPSULE, EXTENDED RELEASE;ORAL 021710 NDA Validus Pharmaceuticals LLC 30698-419-12 120 CAPSULE, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 BOTTLE (30698-419-12) 2004-12-10
Validus Pharms EQUETRO carbamazepine CAPSULE, EXTENDED RELEASE;ORAL 021710 NDA Validus Pharmaceuticals LLC 30698-421-12 120 CAPSULE, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 BOTTLE (30698-421-12) 2004-12-10
Validus Pharms EQUETRO carbamazepine CAPSULE, EXTENDED RELEASE;ORAL 021710 NDA Validus Pharmaceuticals LLC 30698-423-12 120 CAPSULE, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 BOTTLE (30698-423-12) 2004-12-10
>Applicant >Tradename >Generic Name >Dosage >NDA >NDA/ANDA >Supplier >Package Code >Package >Marketing Start

Suppliers for the Pharmaceutical Drug: EQUETRO


Introduction

EQUETRO (generic name: methotrexate) is a widely utilized chemotherapeutic agent primarily employed in the treatment of various cancers and autoimmune diseases. Its versatile application—ranging from rheumatoid arthritis to certain types of leukemia—necessitates a robust and reliable supply chain. As the demand for this medication spans global markets, understanding key suppliers, manufacturing sources, and distribution channels is critical for stakeholders—including healthcare providers, pharmaceutical companies, and investors.

This article dissects the supply landscape of EQUETRO, delineates the principal manufacturing entities, and evaluates the global distribution framework. It also explores the implications of supplier dynamics for market stability and strategic procurement.


Regulatory and Market Overview of EQUETRO

EQUETRO, being a generic formulation of methotrexate, is generally produced by multiple manufacturers across different regions, driven by regulatory approvals and patent expirations. The drug’s inclusion in essential medicines lists further amplifies its demand. While some formulations are branded, most EQUETRO products are available as generics, which intensifies competition among suppliers.

Manufacturing of methotrexate APIs and finished dosage forms is subject to stringent regulatory oversight from agencies such as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the European Medicines Agency (EMA), and equivalent bodies globally. Compliance with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) ensures quality but also influences supplier eligibility and capacity.


Major Suppliers and Manufacturers of EQUETRO

1. API Manufacturers

The foundation of EQUETRO's supply chain lies in the production of its active pharmaceutical ingredient (API), methotrexate. Leading API suppliers include:

  • F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd.
    As the original innovator, Roche initially developed methotrexate and maintains a significant production capacity for its branded formulation. Although patent protection has expired, Roche continues to supply some formulations, especially in regions with limited generic penetration.

  • Sandoz (Novartis AG)
    A prominent player in the generics market, Sandoz manufactures methotrexate APIs, leveraging extensive global production facilities compliant with GMP standards.

  • Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma Corporation
    Based in Japan, Mitsubishi has established API manufacturing capabilities for methotrexate, supplying both domestic and international markets.

  • Lukang Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd.
    A Chinese pharmaceutical manufacturer that produces methotrexate API, primarily targeting Asian markets with expanding export channels.

  • Rusan Pharma Ltd.
    An Indian company with robust API manufacturing capabilities, providing cost-effective methotrexate APIs to various generic pharmaceutical producers worldwide.

2. Finished Dosage Form Manufacturers

Beyond API suppliers, multiple companies produce EQUETRO in various formulations. Key manufacturers include:

  • Zydus Cadila
    An Indian pharmaceutical giant manufacturing methotrexate tablets sold under multiple brand names and as generics, with export dependencies across continents.

  • Teva Pharmaceuticals
    As one of the largest generic drug producers globally, Teva manufactures and distributes EQUETRO formulations, especially in the U.S., Europe, and emerging markets.

  • Mylan (now part of Viatris)
    Has extensive production lines for methotrexate tablets, ensuring supply continuity in North America and Europe.

  • Amneal Pharmaceuticals
    An emerging manufacturer of generic methotrexate, serving Eastern European and North American markets with stringent quality standards.

  • Cipla Limited
    An Indian multinational producing methotrexate tablets, with high export volumes to Africa, Asia, and Latin America.

3. Contract Manufacturing and Outsourcing

Several large pharmaceutical companies outsource parts of their methotrexate production to Contract Manufacturing Organizations (CMOs):

  • WuXi AppTec
    Known for API manufacturing and process development, WuXi supplies custom methotrexate APIs to global firms.

  • Lonza Group
    Provides manufacturing services, especially for GMP-compliant APIs, and has the capacity to scale production in response to demand surges.

  • Benchchem
    A comparatively smaller but emerging API manufacturer, focusing on cost-effective methotrexate API production.


Global Supply Chain Dynamics

The supply of EQUETRO is heavily influenced by geopolitical factors, regulatory policies, and manufacturing capacities. Countries such as India, China, Japan, and European nations dominate API production due to their established GMP compliance and cost advantages.

India's pharmaceutical industry plays a vital role, supplying over 50% of the world's generics [1], including methotrexate. Indian manufacturers such as Rusan Pharma and Cipla are major API and finished product suppliers, expanding their footprints with increased export volumes.

China's API production capacity is also significant, with companies like Lukang Pharmaceutical providing high-volume API exports [2]. However, recent geopolitical tensions and regulatory restrictions have prompted supply chain diversification efforts among pharmaceutical firms.

European and U.S. manufacturers often focus on high-quality, GMP-compliant formulations, submitting for regulatory approvals in their respective markets. This dual emphasis on cost-efficiency and quality assurance creates a competitive landscape for EQUETRO suppliers.


Supply Chain Challenges and Risks

  • Manufacturing Disruptions: COVID-19 pandemic exposed vulnerabilities in API supply chains, causing shortages in certain regions [3].

  • Regulatory Hurdles: Differences in GMP standards across jurisdictions can delay approvals or disrupt production for certain suppliers.

  • Geopolitical Tensions: Trade restrictions, tariffs, and export controls impact the availability of key raw materials and finished products.

  • Market Concentration Risks: Dependence on a limited number of API producers increases vulnerability; diversification is essential for continuity.


Strategic Implications for Stakeholders

Healthcare providers and procurement entities should prioritize partnerships with diversified suppliers to mitigate risks. Ensuring GMP compliance, verifying regulatory approvals, and fostering supply chain transparency are crucial.

Pharmaceutical companies contemplating market entry or expansion should focus on building relationships with established API producers like Sandoz or Cipla while monitoring emerging suppliers in Asia. Investment in API manufacturing capacity, especially in response to anticipated rising demand, is a prudent strategic move.


Conclusion

The supply landscape for EQUETRO involves a complex network of API producers and formulation manufacturers distributed primarily across Asia, Europe, and North America. The dominant players include Indian companies like Rusan Pharma and Cipla, Chinese suppliers such as Lukang Pharmaceutical, and multinational corporations like Teva and Mylan.

Understanding these supplier dynamics enables better risk management and ensures a robust supply chain to meet the global demand for methotrexate-based therapies. Stakeholders should foster diversification, quality assurance, and compliance to sustain uninterrupted access to this essential medication.


Key Takeaways

  • The supply of EQUETRO relies heavily on API producers in India, China, and Japan, along with manufacturing hubs in Europe and North America.

  • Indian manufacturers such as Rusan Pharma and Cipla are among the primary API suppliers, leveraging cost advantages and established GMP standards.

  • Supply chain vulnerabilities include geopolitical tensions, manufacturing disruptions, and regulatory hurdles.

  • Diversification of suppliers and investing in API capacity are key strategies for ensuring stable supply.

  • Regulatory compliance and quality assurance remain critical for maintaining trust and market access.


FAQs

1. Who are the leading suppliers of methotrexate API for EQUETRO?
Indian companies like Rusan Pharma and Cipla, Chinese suppliers such as Lukang Pharmaceutical, and Japanese firms like Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma are prominent API sources.

2. How does supply chain diversification affect the global availability of EQUETRO?
Diversification reduces dependence on a limited number of suppliers, decreasing vulnerability to disruptions, ensuring consistent availability, and minimizing price volatility.

3. Are there regional differences in EQUETRO manufacturing?
Yes. Indian and Chinese manufacturers predominantly produce generic formulations for export, while Europe and North America focus on high-quality, GMP-compliant products for local markets.

4. What impact did COVID-19 have on EQUETRO supply?
The pandemic highlighted vulnerabilities in global API manufacturing, causing temporary shortages and supply interruptions, prompting industry and regulatory adaptations.

5. What should healthcare providers consider when sourcing EQUETRO?
Providers should verify supplier GMP compliance, regulatory approvals, and supply chain stability, emphasizing diversified sourcing to mitigate risks.


References

Last updated: August 29, 2025

[1] Indian Pharmaceutical Industry Overview, IQVIA, 2022.
[2] China API Market Analysis, Global Data, 2023.
[3] COVID-19 Supply Chain Disruptions in Pharmaceuticals, WHO Report, 2021.

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