By Fineline Cube China-based Joincare Pharmaceutical Industry Group Co., Ltd (SHA: 600380) has announced that its subsidiary Zhuhai Livzon Monoclonal Antibodies Biotechnology Co. Ltd has received marketing approval in China for its biosimilar version of Roche Holding AG’s (OTCMKTS: RHHBY) Actemra/RoActemra (tocilizumab). This approval marks a significant milestone in expanding treatment options for patients with various autoimmune conditions.
Roche’s Actemra Background
Roche’s originator drug, Actemra/RoActemra (tocilizumab), has been approved in multiple markets for indications including pediatric juvenile idiopathic arthritis, systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis, giant cell arteritis, and CAR-T cell-induced cytokine release syndrome, in addition to rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The drug is an inhibitor of the interleukin-6 receptor, designed to suppress the immune response. In China, the molecule was included in the 10th edition of the COVID-19 Infection Diagnosis and Treatment Plan.
Market Landscape
Earlier this week, China-based Bio-Thera Solutions Ltd (SHA: 688177) announced that its BAT1806 became the first biosimilar version of tocilizumab in China. Roche reported sales of tocilizumab in China at RMB 122 million (USD 18 million) in 2021 and RMB 121 million (USD 17.85 million) in the first three quarters of 2022. Joincare’s approval further diversifies the market, offering more accessible treatment options for patients.
Keywords: Joincare Pharmaceutical Tocilizumab Biosimilar Actemra-Fineline Info & Tech