Pru‐Decorp ^TM and Pru‐Decorp‐MG: Pioneering Indian Medical Countermeasures to Strengthen Preparedness for Radiological and Nuclear Emergencies

ABSTRACT The increasing risk of radiological and nuclear emergencies poses a threat to all nations, including India, with its 22 nuclear reactors across 8 power plants. The Institute of Nuclear Medicine and Allied Sciences (INMAS), Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO), has been tasked with developing medical countermeasures like drugs, devices, and therapies to address such emergencies. In collaboration with the pharmaceutical industry under the Technology Development Fund (TDF) project, INMAS has developed Prussian blue (PB) formulations—an established antidote for radioactive Cesium (Cs) and Thallium (Tl). Following optimization and extensive invitro and invivo evaluations, the formulations were scaled up for industrial production. Approved by Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO)/Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI), Pru‐Decorp™, and Pru‐Decorp‐MG are now commercially available in India, with Pru‐Decorp™ marking India's self‐reliance and Pru‐Decorp‐MG™ protected by patent as an innovative INMAS product. The development of Pru‐Decorp™ and Pru‐Decorp‐MG aligns with global standards, as PB is recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO) as a critical medicine for radiological and nuclear emergencies. These formulations underwent stringent regulatory reviews, ensuring their efficacy and safety for removing internal contamination by radioactive Cs and Tl. Their availability not only strengthens India's medical preparedness but also sets a benchmark for indigenous solutions in the field of radiological emergency management.