Senegal Begins Local Production of Affordable Sickle Cell Medicine
Senegal has begun producing DREPAF, a locally made generic version of hydroxyurea used to manage sickle cell disease. The medicine received marketing approval in April 2025, with commercial distribution starting in early 2026. Produced by Teranga Pharma in partnership with Drep.Afrique, DREPAF is designed to reduce reliance on imported drugs and improve access for patients across Africa. It is estimated to cost between 50 and 100 CFA francs daily, depending on the patient’s age and dosage. A paediatric formulation has also been developed for children from nine months old. Hydroxyurea is not a cure for sickle cell disease, but it can reduce painful crises, hospital admissions, blood transfusions and other complications when prescribed and monitored by a qualified healthcare professional. The development is a significant step for a continent that carries most of the global sickle cell burden and could support wider access if distribution expands beyond Senegal.
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