A chiral drug is a molecule which is not superimposable with its mirror image and these exist in two forms (called enantiomers), although only one enantiomer is active. The unwanted form is sometimes associated with side effects and toxicity. The alliance with NCL covers several drugs, which are currently sold in India as a racemate (a mixture of both active and inactive forms). The alliance partners will work towards preparing such racemates only in the required and active form (ie the chiral drug). This will reduce cost, and remove all side effects arising out of the unwanted enantiomer. MK Gurjar, NCL head, organic chemistry technology division, said.