Novo Medi Sciences Pvt. Ltd. (Novo Group), a legacy-driven pharmaceutical company with over 80 years of expertise in developing niche biologicals, has announced the launch of NEXIPOX PLUS®, marking the most significant innovation in varicella vaccination in decades. With this launch, Novo Medi Sciences becomes the only company to proactively upgrade a varicella vaccine specifically to address the clinical, environmental, and operational realities of Indian healthcare settings.
Addressing Stability Challenges in Real-World Conditions
Live attenuated varicella vaccines are inherently thermolabile, making formulation stability and potency retention critical for effective immunisation. Recognising the challenges posed by India’s climatic conditions and variable cold-chain infrastructure, Novo Medi Sciences designed NEXIPOX PLUS® with a 2× trehalose-based stabiliser system, representing a meaningful evolution in vaccine formulation.
Importantly, this advanced stabiliser replaces conventional excipients such as gelatin and mannitol. As a result, the formulation improves viral stability, preserves antigen potency, and minimises risks associated with antigen crystallisation. Moreover, by eliminating gelatin, the vaccine significantly reduces the potential for allergic reactions, thereby supporting safer and more consistent vaccine performance during storage, handling, and administration.
Strong Clinical Immunogenicity in Indian Patients
Clinical evaluation of NEXIPOX PLUS® has demonstrated robust immunogenic outcomes in Indian patients. Speaking on the launch, Forum Bhagat, Managing Director, Novo Medi Sciences (Novo Group), highlighted the company’s formulation-led approach to innovation.
“NEXIPOX PLUS® reflects our commitment to advancing vaccine science beyond incremental changes,” he said. “Clinical trials conducted in Indian patients have shown a 98% seroconversion rate following a two-dose schedule, supported by a 35.4-fold geometric mean rise in antibody titres, indicating a strong and durable immune response against the varicella virus.”
As per the press release, these findings underscore the vaccine’s ability to deliver reliable protection while addressing formulation-related limitations seen with conventional varicella vaccines.
Favourable Safety and Improved Tolerability Profile
Alongside its strong immunogenicity, NEXIPOX PLUS® has demonstrated a favourable safety profile. Comparative clinical trials reported no serious adverse events causally linked to the vaccine. Furthermore, the removal of gelatin from the formulation enhances tolerability, particularly in paediatric populations, reinforcing confidence among clinicians and caregivers.
Expert Perspective on Clinical Relevance
Commenting on the clinical significance of the innovation, Dr Nitin K. Shah, Consultant Pediatrician and Pediatric Hemato-Oncologist, Mumbai, emphasised the practical benefits for routine immunisation.
“While stability and safety are already well established in varicella vaccination, the real clinical advancement with NEXIPOX PLUS® lies in its enhanced immunogenicity,” he noted. “By combining a stable formulation with the use of 2× trehalose and advances in manufacturing, the vaccine delivers stronger and more consistent immune responses, translating into tangible benefits in everyday clinical practice.”
Supporting Public Health and Immunisation Goals
Chickenpox continues to have a high prevalence in India, and the introduction of NEXIPOX PLUS® aligns closely with national public health objectives to reduce disease burden and improve vaccination coverage. Designed with affordability, scalability, and operational reliability in mind, the vaccine supports wider adoption in private practice while strengthening the overall immunisation ecosystem.
Regulatory Approval and Global Readiness
NEXIPOX PLUS® has received approval from the Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) for use in individuals aged 12 months and above. Backed by patented technology across 156 countries, the vaccine demonstrates strong global regulatory readiness. Novo Medi Sciences is currently evaluating international expansion strategies, guided by public health priorities and sustainable supply considerations.
Reinforcing Formulation-Led Vaccine Innovation
With the launch of NEXIPOX PLUS®, Novo Medi Sciences (Novo Group) reinforces its long-standing focus on formulation-driven innovation. By enhancing stability, safety, and immunogenic performance, the company continues to deliver clinically meaningful advancements that strengthen confidence in modern vaccination practices.