German pharmaceutical giant Bayer’s (ETR: BAYN) Kerendia (finerenone), the first nonsteroidal, selective mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) antagonist, has been officially launched in China for the treatment of type 2 diabetes-related chronic kidney disease (CKD). The drug received market approval in June 2022 and was included in the National Reimbursement Drug List (NRDL) in January 2023. Its indication approval was further extended to early-stage type 2 diabetes-related CKD two months later, encompassing cardiovascular benefits such as reducing the risk of cardiovascular death and hospitalization due to heart failure.
Challenges of Diabetic Kidney Disease (DKD) in China
Diabetic kidney disease (DKD), the leading cause of end-stage renal disease (ESRD) in China, presents significant clinical challenges. These include a low awareness, screening, and treatment rate of diabetes-related kidney disease. Additionally, multiple disease factors contribute to the occurrence, development, and poor prognosis of DKD. Patients often have co-morbidities such as hypertension, anemia, musculoskeletal disease, heart disease, arteriosclerosis or calcification, and infections, which can exacerbate the disease and significantly increase the risk of death.
Kerendia’s Impact on CKD Treatment
The launch of Kerendia in China marks a significant advancement in the treatment of type 2 diabetes-related CKD. As a nonsteroidal MR antagonist, it offers a new approach to managing the disease, which is critical given the high prevalence of DKD and its associated complications in the country.-Fineline Info & Tech
