Jiangsu Hengrui Pharmaceuticals Co., Ltd (SHA: 600276), a leading pharmaceutical company based in China, has announced receiving approval from the National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) to conduct a clinical study for its esflurbiprofen patch, a generic version of Japan firm Taisho Pharmaceutical’s Loqoa tape. The intended indication for the patch is pain relief and anti-inflammation associated with osteoarthritis.
Esflurbiprofen Patch: A Potent Anti-Inflammatory and Analgesic
Esflurbiprofen, the racemic mixture (S type) of flurbiprofen, is known for its strong inhibitory effect on cyclooxygenase (COX) activity, which plays a crucial role in inflammation and pain. Its efficacy is more potent than that of similar products currently on the market. The Loqoa tape, approved for manufacturing and marketing in Japan in September 2015, has not yet been registered in China, where there is no modified or generic version filed for marketing. This gap in the market presents an opportunity for Hengrui’s esflurbiprofen patch to provide a much-needed treatment option for patients suffering from osteoarthritis.
Investment in Product Development
Hengrui has invested RMB15.05 million in the development of the esflurbiprofen patch, reflecting the company’s commitment to expanding its portfolio and meeting the unmet medical needs of patients in China. With the NMPA’s approval, the company is now poised to proceed with clinical studies, bringing the product one step closer to market availability and potentially improving the standard of care for osteoarthritis patients.-Fineline Info & Tech
