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- 2026-04-27 13:31:34
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- COVID-19 vaccination system has been included in the NIP
- by Whang, byung-woo Aug 06, 2025 06:09am
- As COVID-19 vaccination has been included in the National Immunization Program (NIP), changes to the operational system is anticipated. Previously, government provided COVID-19 immunization service for high-risk groups. Whereas the previous service had been temporary, the current vaccination system is expected to become more established. The Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA) announced that it will procure a total of 5.3 million doses of vaccine for the 2025-2026 season's COVID-19 NIP project through a private contract. The suppliers have been determined as ▲Pfizer (3.28 million doses) ▲Moderna (2.02 million doses), with HK inno.N and Boryung Biopharma, respectively, serving as the domestic distributors (companies with exclusive sales rights) for the COVID-19 vaccines. The vaccination will target high-risk groups, including the elderly aged 65 and over and immunocompromised individuals aged 6 months and older. Vaccinations are scheduled to begin in mid-October. The Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA) announced changes to a procurement system for COVID-19 vaccines. From 2025, the government will procure vaccines through a private contract. This transition of the COVID-19 vaccination program to the NIP is analyzed as an effort to increase the efficiency and predictability of the vaccination system, as the demand for vaccination among high-risk groups persists. The key to this transition is the establishment of a 'seasonal vaccination system'. Previously, vaccination plans were adjusted as needed based on the COVID-19 epidemic situation and vaccine supply conditions. However, after the NIP transition, it is expected that routine vaccinations will be standardized, like the flu vaccine. Accordingly, the vaccination implementation guidelines, recommendation criteria, and vaccine distribution are also expected to be managed solely within the government system. For the 2024-2025 seasonal COVID-19 vaccine, vaccinations were administered from October 11th to April 30th. However, as the incidence of COVID-19 increased not only in winter but also in summer, the vaccination period was extended from late April to June 30 of this year. The financial structure will also change. Unlike the previous system of full state funding, a 'national+local government matching fund' model will be introduced for this NIP project. The funding will consist of 30% national and 70% local government funds for Seoul, and 50% national and 50% local government funds for other regions. Since each local government will be responsible for executing the budget and managing vaccination rates, there is a possibility of differences in campaign intensity and implementation between regions. For the 2024-2025 seasonal COVID-19 vaccine, the vaccination period was extended from the regular schedule. Less Uncertainty for Pharmaceutical Suppliers...Expectations for Future Expansion of Vaccination Targets For vaccine suppliers Pfizer and Moderna, the latest structural change is expected to be a favorable shift in terms of supply stability and business predictability. Previously, COVID-19 vaccinations were based on government pre-purchase, with storage and delivery handled by government-commissioned companies. Such a system had possibility that the project could be terminated at any time based on the government's will. Now that it is included in the NIP, a stable volume of vaccines will be secured, and production and supply plans can be formulated based on an annual procurement cycle. From the government's perspective, even though the procurement is based on a private contract, price competitiveness and supply capabilities are included as evaluation factors, ensuring transparency in the supplier selection process. However, the responsibilities of pharmaceutical companies are also expected to increase. Since manufacturers will be directly responsible for storage and delivery, the company's logistical capabilities, including maintaining the cold chain, handling returns, and managing product exchanges, will be a critical variable. Although NIP vaccines have relatively fewer marketing elements, the availability of two vaccine options, along with the allowance for exchanges of vaccines nearing their expiration date and returns of up to 5%, means there is a high possibility of future competition between pharmaceutical companies. The COVID-19 epidemic situation for 2022-2025. The incidence of COVID-19 increased not only in winter but also in summer. In the clinical field, there is an expectation for a unified system, along with a focus on whether the target population will be expanded in the future. Currently, the program targets only high-risk groups, but it could be extended to the general population, similar to the flu (influenza), as the vaccination program becomes more established. First, experts advise that a practical strategy is needed to improve vaccination rates alongside the implementation of the NIP. Professor Woo Joo Kim of Korea University Guro Hospital's Department of Infectious Diseases stated in a meeting with DailyPharm, "High-risk groups, such as the elderly and those with underlying diseases, must be aware of their risk of infection and proactively get vaccinated. If they have symptoms, they must seek diagnosis and treatment quickly." Kim added, "At a societal level, a 'culture of resting when sick' needs to be established, and at a government level, an independent surveillance system for COVID-19 alone needs to be built." Kim also added, "Data on the latest COVID-19 epidemic trends, disease burden, and vaccine efficacy and safety must be understood to formulate vaccination timing and public relations strategies swiftly."
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- Organon-KSCRH implements Implanon NTX Certificate Program
- by Whang, byung-woo Aug 05, 2025 06:08am
- 임플라논엔엑스티 이식제 제품사진 The Implanon NXT Certificate Program, jointly implemented by Organon Korea and the Korean Society of Contraception and Reproductive Health, is yielding positive results. Organon Korea announced on the 4th that 172 medical professionals have received certification through the ‘Implanon NTX Certificate Program,’ which has been in operation since 2024. The certification program aims to provide opportunities to enhance proficiency in the insertion and removal procedures of Implanon NXT (etonogestrel, hereinafter referred to as ‘Implanon’), a subdermal implantable contraceptive. Medical professionals seeking certification must complete four courses—Product Overview, Insertion Procedure, Removal and Replacement, and Patient Counseling—through the medical professional portal Organon Pro, followed by participation in an Implanon insertion and removal practical training session hosted by Organon Korea. Implanon is a subdermal contraceptive implant inserted under the skin on the inner side of the arm, providing up to 99% effectiveness for up to three years with a single procedure. It is a long-acting reversible contraceptive (LARC) method, with fertility returning within a few days to one week after removal. It does not require daily administration, making it independent of medication adherence, and can be used by women who have never given birth. Due to its structural characteristics, which prevent users from manipulating it themselves, insertion and removal must be performed by a qualified healthcare professional. Accordingly, the approval guidelines strongly recommend that healthcare professionals participate in the procedure training. The World Health Organization (WHO) also recommends in its Family Planning Handbook that implantable contraceptives must be administered by healthcare professionals who have received appropriate training. In line with these standards, Organon Korea has been implementing a procedure certification system linked to healthcare professional education and certification since 2024. After submitting a practical training certificate, the Korean Society of Contraception and Reproductive Health issues an Implanon procedure certification. As of 2024, a total of 172 medical professionals have been certified, and the program will continue to operate in the second half of the year. Ji-young Lee, President of the Korean Society of Contraception and Reproductive Health, said, “With growing patient interest in modern contraceptive methods like Implanon, there is a consensus among medical professionals that safer and more consistent procedures must be provided. Accordingly, we have introduced a certification program that combines education and practical training.” Sori Lee, Marketing Lead of the Women's Health Division at Organon Korea, said, “Since Implanon is a contraceptive that works continuously for up to three years inside the body, it must be inserted at the correct location and depth. We are implementing the certification program in collaboration with the society to further enhance the professionalism and consistency of the procedure. Going forward, we will continue to create an environment where women can choose contraceptive procedures with confidence and support more women in taking an active role in designing their health and lives.”
- Company
- Generic companies challenge Xtandi’s patent in KOR
- by Kim, Jin-Gu Aug 05, 2025 06:08am
- Astellas' prostate cancer treatment ‘Xtandi (enzalutamide)’ has become the target of a patent challenge by a generic drug company. According to industry sources on the 4th, Alvogen Korea recently filed a request for invalidation trial (passive scope confirmation trial) of the composition patent for Xtandi against Astellas. This is the first patent challenge ever filed against Xtandi in Korea. Xtandi is Astellas' prostate cancer treatment. The drug is protected by two patents: a substance patent expiring in June 2026 and a composition patent expiring in September 2033. Alvogen Korea plans to avoid the composition patent expiring in 2033 and launch a generic version in time for the expiration of the substance patent in 2026. What is interesting is that Alvogen Korea has already received approval for a generic version of Xtandi. In February of this year, Alvogen Korea received approval to import Anamide from the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety. At the time of approval, the composition patent for Xtandi had not yet been registered by the original company. In addition, Alvogen Korea is developing a generic version of another prostate cancer treatment, “Zytiga (abiraterone).” The company received approval for a bioequivalence study for “AK-D311” in October last year. Prior to Alvogen Korea, Hanmi Pharmaceutical, and Ace Pharma had already launched generic versions of Zytiga. Xtandi is competing with Janssen's ‘Erleada (apalutamide)’ and Zytiga in the first-line treatment market for prostate cancer. Recently, a new first-line treatment, ‘Akeega,’ has entered the competition as well. Akeega is a combination of Zytiga and Takeda's Zejula (niraparib). Recent trends show that Zytiga’s sales have been declining since the release of the generic version. On the other hand, sales of Xtandi and Erleada are on the rise. According to pharmaceutical market research institution IQVIA, Xtandi's sales increased by 1.9 times over four years, from KRW 23 billion in 2019 to KRW 43.2 billion in 2023. It is estimated that its sales last year alone were around KRW 50 billion.
- Company
- Inclusion of Prevenar 20 into NIP for children starting Oct
- by Whang, byung-woo Aug 05, 2025 06:08am
- As Prevenar 20 has been confirmed to be included in the National Immunization Program (NIP) in October, a fierce market competition is anticipated. Product photo of Prevenar 20 PFSThe implementation has been delayed from its initial expected schedule in Q3. However, it is anticipated to shift the market for pneumococcal conjugate vaccines with the emergence of the newest version of the vaccine, following 13-valent and 15-valent vaccines. The Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency announced on the 4th that Prevenar 20, which is the newest pneumococcal conjugate vaccine, will be officially introduced as part of the NIP. Accordingly, children over two months of age and adolescents can receive free vaccinations with Prevenar 20 at medical clinics nationwide. Prevenar 20 is a pneumococcal conjugate vaccine that was approved by the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) on October 31, 2024. Compared to the 13-valent vaccine, Prevenar 20 has added seven additional pneumococcal serotypes. Among domestically approved pneumococcal conjugate vaccines, it contains the most serotypes. As Prevenar 20 includes common serotypes in Korea that could not be prevented using existing vaccines, its preventative effect is garnering attention. Pneumococcus is a major bacterial pathogen that causes various diseases in infants and young children, including otitis media, pneumonia, and meningitis. Vaccination is crucial, especially as it can cause life-threatening invasive pneumococcal disease (IPD) in immunocompromised children. The inclusion of Prevenar 20 in the NIP was decided after a comprehensive review by the Korea Expert Committee on Immunization Practices (KECIP) on the vaccine's safety, immunogenicity, and cost-effectiveness. With this introduction, the number of pneumococcal vaccines supported by the NIP will increase to three. Types of Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccines (PCVs) per Serotypes Currently, the NIP supports the 13-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV13, Prevenar 13) and the 15-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV15, Vaxneuvance) for pediatric pneumococcal vaccination. The vaccination schedule for Prevenar 20 in healthy children remains the same: a total of three doses at 2, 4, and 6 months of age, followed by a booster dose at 12-15 months. Children who have already started vaccination with PCV13 can receive an interchangeable vaccination with PCV20. For this reason, it is expected that many infants who have completed their first or second doses with PCV13 will continue the remaining schedule with PCV20. Experts also anticipate a higher incidence of interchangeable vaccination with the newer vaccine, which offers broader protection compared to existing vaccines. However, the KDCA recommends that if vaccination begins with PCV15, the remaining doses should be completed with the same vaccine. Additionally, PCV20 vaccination is also available for high-risk children and adolescents who are vulnerable to infection due to conditions such as immunosuppression, chronic diseases, or cochlear implants. For high-risk children and adolescents, the vaccination schedule varies depending on their age at vaccination and previous vaccination history, so an individualized schedule must be followed. Notably, the upper age limit for high-risk children eligible for PCV20 support has been raised from 12 to 18 years. More children and adolescents will receive national immunization benefits. Pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV) Immunization Procedure for Healthy Children. [Recommended months for the initial immunization]: Standard immunization at 2-6 months of age, 1) Primary series of Immunization: 2, 4, and 6 months of age (3 doses), 2) Booster dose: 12-15 months of age (1 dose). The inclusion of Prevenar 20 in the NIP is expected to intensify market competition. The sales of Prevenar 20 for pediatric and adolescent segments will continue to be handled by Korea Vaccine, which previously managed sales of Prevenar 13. It is widely analyzed that Pfizer Korea and Korea Vaccine, which have long maintained a dominant position with the existing 13-valent vaccine, will further expand their market dominance with the introduction of the 20-valent vaccine. Korea Vaccine is also preparing for on-site supply and is expected to aim for rapid market penetration by emphasizing the interchangeable vaccination guidelines and product advantages. An official from the vaccine industry stated, "An official from the vaccine industry stated, "As the NIP market for pneumococcal vaccines is being restructured, each company is actively preparing countermeasures," and added, "We believe Korea Vaccine's extensive experience will positively contribute to the rapid market establishment of Prevenar 20."
- Company
- Galafold reimbursed as first-line drug for Fabry disease
- by Nho, Byung Chul Aug 04, 2025 05:54am
- Reimbursement for Handok's Fabry disease treatment, Galafold (migalastat), will be expanded to cover its use as a first-line treatment starting on the first of this month. Previously, Galafold was covered only for patients aged 16 and older who had been administered enzyme replacement therapy (ERT) intravenously for at least 12 months. With this expansion of reimbursement, Galafold can now be prescribed as a first-line treatment without 12 months of enzyme replacement therapy. In addition, as stated in the approval, patients aged 12 years and older (weighing 45 kg or more) will be eligible for insurance reimbursement. Galafold is the world's first oral treatment for Fabry disease, developed by Amicus and supplied by Handok in South Korea. It is currently used in 45 countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, Japan, and Europe, and was approved in Korea in 2017 and became listed for reimbursement in 2019. Unlike enzyme replacement therapy, which requires patients to visit the hospital once every two weeks for intravenous injections lasting several hours, Galafold is an oral treatment that patients can take themselves once every two days. This improves the convenience of medication administration and quality of life for Fabry disease patients. Galafold demonstrated a sustained and long-term safety profile in maintaining kidney function and reducing cardiac mass index when switching from enzyme replacement therapy to Galafold in Fabry disease patients with a compliant genotype, as confirmed by a 30-month long-term clinical trial. Additionally, in the switching group, cardiac adverse reactions occurred in 20% of patients receiving enzyme replacement therapy, but the rate decreased to 7% after switching to Galafold. Galafold demonstrated efficacy and safety not only in patients switching from enzyme replacement therapy but also in treatment-naive patients. In the Phase III FACET study, a 24-month clinical trial of Galafold in treatment-naive or enzyme replacement therapy-naive patients with Fabry disease harboring a compliant mutation, cardiac mass index decreased significantly from baseline, with a greater reduction in patients with left ventricular hypertrophy. (Overall: -7.7 ± 3.7 g/m², patients with left ventricular hypertrophy: -18.6 ± 8.3 g/m²) Additionally, in the long-term real-world patient registry study followMe , Galafold maintained stable renal function over an average treatment duration of 3.9 years, and that Fabry disease-related clinical events occurred in less than 80% of patients, confirming renal preservation and multi-organ benefits. Recently, the results of the ASPIRE study in pediatric patients were published in the May issue of the international academic journal ‘Molecular Genetics and Metabolism.’ The ASPIRE study showed that pediatric patients treated with Galafold maintained stable renal and cardiac markers, plasma lyso-Gb3 levels, and improvements in pain, gastrointestinal symptoms, and quality of life. Additionally, no new adverse reactions or unexpected safety issues were observed in the safety evaluation.
- Company
- Otsuka launches once-every-2-months inj 'Abilify Asimtufii'
- by Whang, byung-woo Aug 04, 2025 05:54am
- Product photo of Otsuka Pharmaceutical Korea announced on August 1 that it will launch 'Abilify Asimtufii Inj (aripiprazole monohydrate),' starting in August, as the reimbursement coverage by the National Health Insurance has been applied. 'Abilify Asimtufii Inj' is an extended-release formulation administered once every two months. It was approved on February 26 by the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety as a monotherapy for the treatment of schizophrenia and bipolar I disorder. A single administration can sustain a stable blood drug concentration for two months, thus it is expected to contribute to reducing the burden of medication and increasing treatment convenience in patients with psychiatric diseases. Abilify Asimtufii Inj is being launched as two dosages: 960 mg and 720 mg. The convenience of administration has been improved. For Abilify Maintena Inj, preparation before administration requires vigorous shaking for about 20 seconds after reconstitution. However, Abilify Asimtufii has been simplified, requiring only 10 gentle taps followed by shaking for 10 seconds, eliminating the need for a reconstitution process. Furthermore, similar to the existing 1-month prolonged-release injectable Abilify Maintena, patients stably taking oral aripiprazole can initiate treatment, or patients currently on Abilify Maintena can switch to Abilify Asimtufii on their next scheduled dose. A healthcare professional must administer it into the gluteal muscle. This formulation is an atypical antipsychotic drug that acts as a dopamine-serotonin system psychotropic agent. The efficacy of the drug was demonstrated in the treatment of schizophrenia and bipolar I disorder through partial agonism at dopamine D2 receptors and serotonin 5-HT1A receptors, and antagonism at serotonin 5-HT2A receptors. Sung-ho Moon, CEO of Korea Otsuka Pharmaceutical, said, "In the treatment of schizophrenia and bipolar I disorder, medication adherence is a crucial factor for patients' long-term prognosis, relapse prevention, recovery of social function, and improvement in quality of life," and added, "In Korea, medication adherence for psychiatric treatments is lower compared to other developed countries. Therefore, long-acting injectables will play an important role not only in therapeutic efficacy but also in improving adherence." Moon further added, "With Abilify Asimtufii, Otsuka Pharmaceutical Korea will actively support patients with schizophrenia and bipolar disorder in Korea to overcome their illnesses and improve their quality of life." Meanwhile, Abilify Asimtufii is currently used in over 26 countries, including the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and the EU.
- Company
- Integrated CKM approach, the new paradigm for CKD treatment
- by Whang, byung-woo Aug 04, 2025 05:53am
- “In the past, we relied solely on single agents such as ACE inhibitors or ARBs to treat chronic kidney disease, but now an integrated approach that simultaneously manages cardiovascular, renal, and metabolic conditions is rising as the option. In this context, the results of the CONFIDENCE study, a recent study on the early combined use of SGLT-2 inhibitors and Kerendia, are drawing attention.” With new drugs being introduced for chronic kidney disease in people with diabetes, an area where there were relatively few treatment options, treatment strategies are also evolving. In particular, given that many kidney disease patients have comorbidities such as diabetes, obesity, and heart disease, there is a growing emphasis on the use of the cardio-kidney-metabolic (CKM) approach. Professor Prabir Roy-Chaudhury (President of the American Society of Nephrology )Professor Prabir Roy-Chaudhury, Drs. Ronald and Katherine Falk Eminent Professor and President of the American Society of Nephrology, emphasized the importance of treatment strategies that consider the close association between cardio-kidney-metabolic in a recent interview with Dailypharm. Professor Chaudhury emphasized the importance of an integrated approach to CKM because there are now methods available in the real-world that can significantly impact all three components of CKM. He explained, “It is rare for kidney disease patients to have kidney abnormalities alone; most have various comorbidities such as diabetes and obesity, making it essential to maximize treatment efficacy through an integrated CKD framework. In other words, a treatment that can influence all areas of CKM—kidneys, diabetes, and even obesity—has become important.” Emphasis on integrated CKM management... results of the CONFIDENCE study draw attention One of the drugs that has recently attracted attention as a core component of this integrated approach is Kerendia (finerenone). Kerendia is the first non-steroidal mineralocorticoid receptor (MRA) antagonist with a new mechanism of action that directly inhibits inflammation and fibrosis in the kidneys. In large-scale Phase III studies such as FIDELIO-DKD and FIGARO-DKD, Kerendia has been proven to inhibit kidney function decline and reduce the risk of cardiovascular events. Its reimbursement was approved in South Korea in February last year, leading to an increase in prescriptions. Professor Chaudhury said, “Kerendia is gaining attention as a new treatment strategy for chronic kidney disease in patients with type 2 diabetes due to its mechanism that directly targets kidney inflammation and fibrosis. It also shows potential to delay progression to dialysis.” Notably, the recently published CONFIDENCE study results demonstrated that early combination therapy with Kerendia and an SGLT-2 inhibitor significantly reduced proteinuria (UACR), presenting new possibilities in practice. The study results showed that when the two drugs were administered together, the urine-albumin-creatinine ratio (UACR) at 180 days after treatment initiation decreased by an average of 52% compared to baseline, showing a 29% greater reduction than the Kerendia monotherapy group and a 32% greater reduction than the SGLT-2 inhibitor monotherapy group. Professor Chaudhury said, “In the CONFIDENCE study, patients who received the combination therapy early on showed a 32% greater reduction in UACR at 180 days compared to the monotherapy group. These results demonstrate that early use of two drugs with different mechanisms of action can achieve greater efficacy in reducing albuminuria at six months.” He emphasized, “It is important to actively treat indicated patients with Kerendia from the early stages to reduce the urine-to-creatinine ratio (UACR).” Regarding safety concerns associated with the use of the combination of drugs, he said, “Combination therapy with the two drugs not only reduced proteinuria but also showed that it could be managed at an acceptable level when treatment approaches were tailored to individual patient characteristics.” Drug combination therapy opens a new treatment paradigm In particular, the main reason the professor is paying close attention to the results of the CONFIDENCE study is that he sees the potential for a “cure” for chronic kidney disease accompanied by diabetes. Professor Chaudhury said, “The key question to consider in the treatment of chronic kidney disease in people with diabetes is whether the combination of four classes of drugs can significantly reduce the number of patients progressing to end-stage kidney disease requiring dialysis or transplantation.” He added, “Just as we have entered an era where a cure is now a realistic possibility in cancer treatment, we have reached a stage where we can discuss the potential for cure in diabetes-associated chronic kidney disease through the combination of various medications.” He further emphasized, “From this perspective, the CONFIDENCE study is the first to bring us one step closer to our ultimate goal of a cure. It is particularly meaningful as the first study to demonstrate the potential of targeting different pathways to achieve the goal of a cure.” The significance of this study is that it provides direction for the simultaneous initiation of multiple classes of therapies and paves the way for their incorporation into future treatment guidelines. “Early diagnosis and improved access to treatment necessary for chronic kidney disease” Professor Chaudhury also stressed the need for improved disease awareness and education among patients, medical professionals, and the general public, as well as the importance of early diagnosis. He stated, “What is needed in all countries is education and improved awareness of the disease. We should not just check the kidneys when someone has diabetes or high blood pressure, but strengthen kidney disease screening for the entire population.” In particular, Professor Chaudhury emphasized that diabetes patients should regularly check albuminuria and eGFR from the time of diagnosis to monitor kidney damage early and intervene actively if abnormalities are detected. He explained, “Public health policies encompassing early diagnosis and improved access to treatment are necessary. Doctors, nurses, researchers, the pharmaceutical industry, insurers, and regulatory agencies must all work together.” Finally, he emphasized, “Proper use of new drugs is just as important as their development. The direction we should pursue is to actively disseminate and apply new treatment information to help patients maintain a healthy life without progressing to dialysis.”
- Company
- Rinvoq joins the competition in the alopecia areata trt. mkt
- by Whang, byung-woo Aug 04, 2025 05:53am
- AbbVie's JAK inhibitor Rinvoq (upadacitinib) is expected to enter the market competition following successful clinical trials for alopecia areata. Product photo of RinvoqAbbVie recently announced positive topline results from the No.2 study of the Phase 3 clinical program (UP-AA program) for Rinvoq in adult and adolescent patients with severe alopecia areata. In this trial, the primary endpoint has been met, with a significant increase in the proportion of patients achieving 80% or more scalp hair regrowth (the primary endpoint) at Week 24 compared to the placebo group. Based on these results, Rinvoq emerged as a strong candidate to join the alopecia areata treatment market. Specifically, 44.6% of patients in the Rinvoq 15mg arm and 54.3% in the Rinvoq 30mg group achieved 80% or more scalp hair regrowth (SALT score ≤20) at Week 24, compared to only 3.4% in the placebo group. Key secondary endpoints, including improved eyebrow and eyelash hair growth, achieving ≥90% scalp hair regrowth (SALT ≤10), and attaining complete scalp hair regrowth (SALT=0), were also met in both Rinvoq dose groups. The safety profile was largely consistent with what has been observed in existing Rinvoq indications, with no new safety signals identified. Arash Mostaghimi, Professor of Dermatology at Harvard Medical School and Brigham and Women's Hospital, said, "The sudden and often unpredictable hair loss experienced by patients with alopecia areata severely impacts their self-esteem and mental health," and added, "There is a desperate need for more therapies that help hair regrowth on the scalp and other areas. These results, showing the potential for upadacitinib to be an important new treatment option, are very favorable." Kori Wallace, the Vice President and Global Head of Immunology Clinical Development at AbbVie, stated, "UP-AA is the first pivotal clinical study to establish and achieve high goals such as SALT=0. These study results demonstrate AbbVie's commitment to advancing new therapies with the potential to improve the lives of patients with immune-mediated diseases." AbbVie plans to initiate global regulatory procedures based on these results. The clinical trial results announced included patients from Korea, suggesting that a swift approval process is anticipated. Third alopecia areata treatment is expected to emerge, and competition is anticipated If Rinvoq receives marketing authorization, it will become the third JAK inhibitor available in the domestic alopecia areata treatment market. Currently, two oral JAK inhibitors, Eli Lilly Korea's Olumiant (baricitinib) and Pfizer Korea's 'Litfulo (ritlecitinib),' can be used for the treatment of severe alopecia areata in Korea. Olumiant, approved by the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) in March 2023, became the first treatment for severe alopecia areata in adults in Korea. This drug was approved based on the results of the BRAVE-AA clinical trial, which showed that at 36 weeks, approximately 38.8% of patients receiving the 4 mg dose achieved 80% or more scalp hair regrowth, demonstrating superior efficacy compared to the placebo group (6.2%). Litfulo, the first alopecia areata treatment to gain an indication for adolescents aged 12 and older, received MFDS approval in September 2024 and was launched in Korea in March this year. In terms of mechanism of action, Olumiant simultaneously inhibits JAK1 and JAK2, while Litfulo selectively acts on JAK3 and TEC family kinases. The prevailing view in clinical settings is that sufficient data on treatment outcomes is needed for these two therapies, as a direct comparison is currently challenging. However, for adult patients, Olumiant could be considered for faster hair regrowth, while Litfulo might be preferred if safety concerns, such as the risk of infection, are prioritized. Compared to Olumiant, Litfulo is in the stage of accumulating prescription experience since its domestic launch, and its efficacy and safety profile in real-world patient populations will need further observation. (from left) Litfulo and Olumiant The late entrant Rinvoq is expected to join the market competition, backed by strong Phase 3 data. Rinvoq, as a selective inhibitor of JAK1, has a distinct target profile from existing drugs and is expected to appeal based on its proven efficacy and accumulated safety data from previous immune disease indications, such as atopic dermatitis. Notably, the high response rate of approximately half of the patients at week 24, confirmed in this trial, is expected to be a distinct strength in terms of short-term efficacy compared to competing drugs. Furthermore, adolescent patients were included in Rinvoq's global clinical trials, suggesting a high probability of securing an indication for ages 12 and older, similar to Litfulo, if approved in the future. This indicates that, in competition with Olumiant, which is limited to adult patients, Rinvoq will have a broader patient population. In competition with Litfulo, the experience accumulated in various indications, such as atopic dermatitis, will be a differentiating point. AbbVie has already successfully established Rinvoq as a treatment for atopic dermatitis in the dermatology field, leading to observations that it will effectively expand the alopecia areata indication to dermatology specialists, who are in the same prescribing group. In terms of treatment accessibility, the successive emergence of Olumiant and Litfulo in the field of alopecia areata, which previously had no approved treatments, marked a turning point in the treatment paradigm. With Rinvoq being introduced, the range of treatment options is expected to broaden further. However, the fact that alopecia areata cannot be reimbursed with the National Health Insurance and remains as the non-reimbursed drug is expected to be a barrier to market expansion.
- Company
- Janssen, Pharma distribution industry agree on margin adj
- by Son, Hyung Min Aug 01, 2025 06:18am
- The conflict between Janssen Korea and the pharmaceutical distribution industry over distribution margin reductions has been resolved with a negotiated settlement. The distribution industry achieved an outcome that maintains existing trade relationships, including with small and medium-sized distributors, while also improving the proposed margin reduction terms. Janssen Korea, in turn, reconfirmed its commitment to cooperation with the distribution industry, setting a precedent for mutual growth. According to industry sources, on August 1, the Korea Pharmaceutical Distribution Association recently announced that it has reached a final agreement with Janssen Korea regarding the reduction in distribution margin, following numerous negotiations. Notably, trade was maintained even for small and medium-sized distributors whose contracts were nearing expiration, and the entire distribution industry is deemed to have secured fair trade conditions without the involvement of the Fair Trade Commission. Previously, Janssen Korea had notified its distribution partners of a plan to pursue a two percentage point reduction from existing margins. While there were variations depending on individual contract terms, for example, a distributor with an existing 8% margin would see it adjusted to 6%. The distribution industry's position was that while some pharmaceutical companies had attempted margin adjustments of around one percentage point, a two percentage point adjustment was unprecedented. In response to this measure, member companies in Korea protested, standing firm and expressing their intent to refuse the distribution of Janssen products, stating that "they cannot handle products at a loss if margin cuts are enforced." In response, the Association immediately formed an emergency response committee and held several rounds of negotiations with Janssen Korea. Both sides narrowed their differences and finally formulated a negotiation proposal. While the specific details remain confidential, according to the Distribution Association, the distribution margins have been adjusted to an acceptable level, and trade terms that had burdened the distribution industry have been improved. The fact that small and medium-sized distributors whose contracts were expiring were not marginalized and could continue their business is considered a significant achievement. The pharmaceutical distribution industry and Janssen Korea officially convened a meeting to discuss distribution margin reductions. The Korea Pharmaceutical Distribution Association feels that this margin reduction conflict with Janssen Korea has strengthened its internal cohesion and external negotiation power. An official from the Distribution Association said, "Throughout numerous meetings, we conducted negotiations, conveying the strong voices of our member companies and the demand for mutual growth with the distribution industry. As negotiations continued, Janssen Korea, which had initially been unyielding, came to a consensus with the association and the distribution industry regarding the margin reduction, thus concluding the negotiations." Janssen Korea also issued a positive statement. The company said, "Through this negotiation, we were able to derive positive alternatives related to margin rates with our distribution companies," and added, "We thank the pharmaceutical distribution industry for their cooperation and are pleased to be able to continue a patient-centered collaborative relationship in the future." Park Ho-young, Chairman of the Korea Pharmaceutical Distribution Association, said, "This is the result of conveying the opinions of our member companies directly and not giving up until the end." He added, "While the outcome may not be entirely satisfactory for some member companies, the fact that we created an opportunity for mutual growth through the united strength of the distribution industry is positive." Park stated, "With margin reductions recurring over a long period, the distribution industry has already reached its acceptance limit," and added, "Pharmaceutical companies should refrain from easily resolving their management difficulties through margin adjustments."
- Company
- NMOSD drug Enspryng’s reimbursement expanded in KOR
- by Whang, byung-woo Aug 01, 2025 06:16am
- Pic of Enspryng Roche Korea announced on the 31st that the reimbursement criteria for Enspryng (satralizumab), a treatment for neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD), will be expanded from August 1st per a notification from the Ministry of Health and Welfare. Enspryng is indicated for the treatment of adult patients with anti-aquaporin(AQP4) antibody-positive NMOSD. It selectively targets the interleukin-6 (IL-6) receptor, a key pathogenic factor in the disease, to inhibit IL-6 signaling. As the only subcutaneous injection formulation approved for NMOSD, it allows for maintenance therapy with a single subcutaneous injection every four weeks. This revision of the reimbursement criteria comes about a year and a half after Enspryng was first listed for reimbursement in December 2023. Under the revised notification, the criteria for Enspryng’s reimbursement, which previously required at least two symptom relapses within the last two years, have been relaxed to allow reimbursement only after at least one symptom relapse within the past year. Under the previous reimbursement criteria, patients had to wait for their second relapse of symptoms, even if they experienced their first relapse during initial treatment, before they could be prescribed Enspryng. However, with the revision, the treatment environment has been improved so that patients can quickly receive reimbursement for Enspryng even if they experience only one relapse during existing treatment. The expansion is expected to allow more patients with relapsing NMOSD to enjoy Enspryng’s treatment benefits. NMOSD is an inflammatory autoimmune disorder of the central nervous system that can cause lifelong physical weakness. Eight to nine out of ten patients experience recurrent relapses, and as even a single relapse can cause severe neurological deficits, early and aggressive relapse prevention treatment is crucial. Enspryng’s safety and efficacy in reducing the risk of relapse were demonstrated through two global Phase III trials - SAkuraStar and SAkuraSky - that were conducted on adult NMOSD patients. Study results showed that in anti-aquaporin-4 antibody-positive patients, approximately 9 out of 10 patients receiving combination therapy with immunosuppressants and approximately 7 out of 10 patients receiving monotherapy with Enspryng remained relapse-free at approximately 2 years (96 weeks). No cases of death or anaphylaxis (hypersensitivity reactions) were reported following Enspryng administration in either clinical study, and most adverse reactions were mild to moderate in severity. In particular, recently published real-world data from Japan showed that 96.6% of patients treated with Enspryng did not experience recurrence at 6 months (26 weeks). "Enspryng is an innovative treatment that has demonstrated its effect in reducing the risk of recurrence in patients with NMOSD in multiple clinical studies,” said Ezat Azem, General Manager of Roche Korea. “With the reimbursement expansion, patients who experience relapse with existing treatments will be able to use Enspryng more quickly without unnecessary delays, which will contribute to improving treatment outcomes and quality of life for patients.”
