2025-12-26

Talking to Pharma Industrial India, Nikkhil K. Masurkar, CEO of ENTOD Pharmaceuticals, discusses the company’s innovation-led growth strategy and its mission to transform ophthalmic, ENT and dermatology care through advanced research and technology integration. From pioneering AI-driven formulation design and robotic sterile manufacturing to developing breakthrough therapies in myopia, presbyopia, and ocular surface diseases, Masurkar outlines how ENTOD is shaping the future of specialty pharmaceuticals in India and beyond.

Q. ENTOD has built strong leadership in ophthalmology and ENT formulations. What strategic priorities are guiding your product development and portfolio expansion in these specialty segments today?

Nikkhil K. Masurkar: At ENTOD, our strategic focus lies in driving research-led innovation and delivering differentiated, patient-centric solutions that address unmet needs in ophthalmology, ENT and dermatology. We are expanding our specialty portfolio with next-generation formulations that go beyond symptom management to promote disease modification and long-term health preservation. Our current priorities include advancing research in biologicals, stem cell-based therapies and gene therapy, while strengthening ophthalmic divisions like GLOTek for glaucoma management and surgical care. We are also leveraging Artificial Intelligence (AI) and data analytics to support personalised ophthalmic medicine, ensuring our therapies remain clinically advanced and globally scalable.

Q. Your DSIR-approved R&D facility has enabled advanced formulation research in both pharmaceuticals and clinical skincare. Which innovation areas are currently receiving the highest R&D focus?

Nikkhil K. Masurkar: Our DSIR-approved R&D centre in Navi Mumbai serves as the hub of our innovation. We are focusing on advanced ophthalmic drug delivery systems, nano formulations, AI-based molecular design and sustained-release technologies to improve therapeutic precision and patient comfort.

We are leading key projects such as low-dose atropine for myopia management, presbyopia-correcting eye drops and innovative ocular surface therapies. Through our brand Entod Beauty London, we are also developing neurocosmetic formulations that offer non-invasive aesthetic benefits. Our R&D is built on the foundation of safety, innovation and accessibility.

Q. ENTOD is increasingly integrating AI-driven drug development, automated sterile manufacturing and digital quality systems. How are these technologies improving formulation precision, safety and production scalability?

Nikkhil K. Masurkar: The integration of technology is revolutionising our processes from research to manufacturing. AI-driven formulation design helps predict stability and efficacy, shortening development timelines. Robotic process automation in sterile manufacturing ensures contamination-free, precise production, while our digital quality management systems guarantee real-time traceability and compliance with global GMP standards. Together, these technologies enhance product quality, safety and scalability, empowering us to compete effectively in regulated international markets.

Q. The company is present in 67 plus global markets, including regulated regions. What are the biggest opportunities and operational challenges in scaling an Indian-origin specialty pharma brand globally?

Nikkhil K. Masurkar: Our global presence across 67 countries offers immense opportunities to position India as a hub for specialty pharmaceutical innovation. The challenge, however, lies in navigating diverse regulatory environments and maintaining quality uniformity across regions. We’ve addressed this through globally aligned quality frameworks, regional competence centres and strong R&D-led credibility. Our transparent, ethical approach and proven track record have helped ENTOD earn the trust of healthcare professionals and regulators in both regulated and emerging markets.

Q. Specialty pharma is increasingly shifting from symptom treatment to disease modification and long-term visual health preservation. How is ENTOD aligning its clinical pipeline to support this shift?

Nikkhil K. Masurkar: ENTOD’s clinical pipeline is focused on represent a shift from symptomatic relief to root-cause treatment. Nutraceutical formulations like Macushield for retinal health also complement our pharmaceutical offerings. This integrated approach reflects our commitment to preventive eyecare and sustained visual wellness.

Q. As a leader driving research-led growth, you work closely with scientists, clinicians and regulatory teams. What skill sets and mindsets do you believe are essential for the next generation of pharma innovators?

Nikkhil K. Masurkar: The next generation of pharma innovators must combine scientific depth with digital intelligence and ethical vision. Key skills include molecular biology, pharmacology, data analytics and regulatory knowledge, but creativity, empathy and adaptability are equally vital. At ENTOD, we encourage a mindset that values collaboration, curiosity and a commitment to creating real-world impact through science.

Q. From an industry standpoint, how is ENTOD contributing to advancing eye health awareness and supporting oph thalmic care innovation in collaboration with healthcare professionals and other stakeholders?

Nikkhil K. Masurkar: ENTOD has been at the forefront of advancing childhood myopia awareness in India through its collaboration with the National Myopia Week, an initiative led by the MATANAND Welfare Foundation in association with SPOSI. Over the last four years, this campaign has reached more than one crore people, educating parents and teachers about the early onset and long-term risks of myopia. ENTOD has also achieved a key scientific milestone with CDSCO-approved myopia-control eye drops for children, expanding access to evidence-based myopia management. Through these awareness and clinical initiatives, ENTOD is helping redefine myopia as a major paediatric eye-health issue that requires timely diagnosis, prevention, and structured care.