In line with the company’s vision to improve health through innovation in nutritional healthcare, Vitabiotics- a research-based nutraceutical company, officially unveiled its product, Osteocare brand during the 40th Annual Conference of the Association of Community Pharmacists in Nigeria (ACPN), held in Abeokuta, Ogun State, Nigeria. The conference, tagged “Gateway 2021”, was held at the Conference Hotel in Abeokuta. The product comes in liquid and tablet formulations.
While speaking with Pharmanews, Pharm. Ifeoma Elekwechi, marketing manager, Vitabiotics UK Brands in Nigeria explained that Osteocare is a balanced and carefully researched formula that takes the proven formula of calcium, magnesium, vitamin D, and other nutrients, which made it available as a tablet and in a smooth, great-tasting liquid that’s ideal for anyone.
She further explained that the product is tailored to different ages and lifestyles; children, women, men, pregnant women and adults, including breastfeeding mothers. “It is a rich source of calcium which is needed for the maintenance of normal bones and its ideal for children, teens, anyone looking for an alternative to tablets. It’s UK’s No.1 calcium supplement brand,” she said.
Speaking on her assessment of the Nigerian pharmaceutical market, especially how the product is faring in the market, the marketing manager declared that the product is gaining market, saying it remains unbeatable to other products in its therapeutic field.
“At the moment, the product market share is growing, but we believe with this unveiling more people, especially pharmacists will get to know its unique benefits and also it will enhance further growth for the product, so for us, it’s not just about selling, but sensitization, awareness, and education”, she stated.
She continued, Osteocare stands out because it’s coming from the Vitabiotic UK. When you talk about Vitabiotics brand, it has received the Queen’s Award on a number of products including Osteocare, so it’s about brand reputation. When it comes to bone health, it can’t be compared to any other brands in the market.
On measures taken to avert counterfeiting of Osteocare, Elekwechi noted that the product is NAFDAC approved and uniquely branded, saying it would be difficult for it to be faked, adding that since the products are imported into the country directly from the UK, there is no reported case of counterfeit yet.
“Synergistic high strength calcium tablets including magnesium, zinc and vitamin D3. To help keep your bones strong and healthy, you must receive enough of certain nutrients in your diet every day. Osteocare has been scientifically developed on the very latest research to help maintain strong bones and teeth”.
Dr Samuel Adekola, immediate past national chairman, ACPN, at the presentation of the product, noted that the unveiling of the product during the conference was strategic as community pharmacists are one set of healthcare providers that is very important as they are the closest to the people, saying working with them will help the company get to her target audience faster.
He however lauded the company for constantly supporting the association, while assuring them of the association’s continuous support.
